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10 Best Pickleball Gloves: Men’s & Women’s

ByLisa Klein

You are seeing pickleball gloves more and more on the pickleball court. I have certainly seen them used, and they do have an impact on your game. They are growing in popularity in hotter regions and seasons where the humidity and heat cause sweaty hands and during cold weather play.

I have also seen players using golf gloves or a racquetball glove. While these racquet sports are similar, there are differences to consider. Given pickleball is a relatively new sport, the number of pickleball-specific gloves is limited. In our top picks, there are:

  • 3 Design Specific for Pickleball
  • 4 Racquetball Gloves – Excellent for Pickleball
  • 3 Women’s Specific Gloves

What Is A Pickleball Glove?

Franklin pickleball gloves
Franklin Pickleball Glove

In its simplest form, a pickleball glove is a special glove designed specifically for playing pickleball. A pickleball glove is not your run-of-the-mill glove, it is a glove designed with the specifics of pickleball in mind.

The aim? To provide the perfect glove to enhance your grip, reduce sweaty palms, and ultimately, improve your game. It is worn on your paddle hand, and while many gloves fit both men and women, some brands have designed specific women’s gloves to fit a woman’s hand better and offer a more stylish pickleball glove.

Frequently Asked Questions

That depends!

A Pickleball Glove can improve grip. When your hands are sweaty, how many times has your paddle slipped in your hand during a shot or you just dropped it. I have had this happen to me and it is not fun.

A good grip is essential for playing pickleball at a high level. pickleball gloves can provide an excellent grip by providing a layer of extra protection between the hand and the paddle. This can keep the paddle from slipping to help generate more power and control your shots.

A pickleball glove can provide comfort. Playing pickleball for extended periods can be uncomfortable for your hands. Pickleball gloves can help provide comfort by wicking away sweat, keeping the hands cool and dry, and reducing hand fatigue. The extra padding in the palm helps to reduce paddle vibration making for more comfortable play.

A Pickleball Glove can help to prevent blisters and calluses. The constant gripping and swinging of a pickleball paddle can put a lot of stress on the hands, leading to blisters and calluses. Pickleball gloves can help to protect the hands and prevent them from occurring.

The simple answer is yes and we will be recommending some. For design and purpose, a racquetball glove and a pickleball glove have a lot in common. Both are designed to enhance grip, manage sweat, and cushion the hand during play. If you already have a racquetball glove on hand, you can certainly use it for pickleball as well.

That being said, while racquetball gloves can be used for pickleball, there are more and more pickleball specific gloves that are being designed for the sport of pickleball. Racquetball gloves are designed with the specific requirements of racquetball in mind, such as the need for a secure grip on a smaller, more maneuverable racquet and the different types of hand movements used in the sport.

Pickleball paddles have a larger surface and are maneuvered differently than racquetball racquets, so some pickleball players might find that a pickleball glove designed specifically for pickleball provides a better feel and control.

A Pickleball Glove: An Extension of Your Hand

As I’ve mentioned, pickleball gloves are like an extension of your hand. It adds grip, cushions against impact, and helps manage sweat. The glove envelops your entire hand, giving you a consistent feel and hold on the paddle.

Plus, the materials used in pickleball gloves – like carbretta leather, neoprene, Lycra, or a sticky skin technology surface – are chosen specifically for their durability and grip-enhancing properties. They are designed to endure intense games’ wear and tear and give you the best grip possible, even when the match heats up and sweat is a factor.

Non-Stick Grip Tape: Enhancing the Paddle

On the other hand (pun intended), non-stick grip tape, also known as overgrip, is applied directly to your pickleball paddle’s handle. It’s an added layer that enhances the paddle’s grip, absorbs sweat, and can cushion the hand from the impact of the ball.

The beauty of non-stick grip tape is that it’s customizable to the player’s liking. You can wrap it to your preferred thickness, and it’s available in a variety of textures and materials. It’s also a great option if you prefer to avoid the feel of a glove or find gloves restrictive.

Is Grip Tape Better Than A Pickleball Glove?

The choice between a pickleball glove and non-stick grip tape comes down to personal preference. Some players swear by gloves for the full-hand coverage and enhanced grip, while others prefer the feel of grip tape on the paddle.

You might even want to try both – Ultimately, both aim to give you better control over your pickleball paddle and your game. The best choice is the one that makes you feel the most comfortable and confident on the court.

There are three types of pickleball gloves. All of them offer palm and knuckle protection.

Fingerless gloves: These pickleball gloves leave the fingers exposed, which can be helpful for players who want to maintain as much agility as possible. Fingerless gloves are also a good option for hot weather, allowing the hands to breathe more easily.

Full-finger gloves: These pickleball gloves cover the entire hand, including the fingers. Full-finger gloves provide the most protection for the hands, and they can be helpful for players who are prone to blisters or calluses. However, full-finger gloves can also make it more difficult to grip the paddle and can be more suited to cold weather.

Hybrid gloves: These pickleball gloves combine fingerless and full-finger gloves. They cover the palm and back of the hand but leave the fingers exposed. Hybrid pickleball gloves offer a good balance of protection and dexterity, and they can be a good option for players who play in various weather conditions.

Size and fit are the main difference between men’s and women’s pickleball gloves. Women’s pickleball gloves are typically smaller and have a narrower fit than men’s. We also see lighter weight and more breathable fabrics used in women’s pickleball gloves.

What Are The Best Pickleball Gloves For Men?

Head pickleball glove

Head Racquetball Glove (most popular)

  • Materials: Synthetic Leather & Silicone Grip Webbing
  • Right/Left Hand: Yes
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: Excellent
  • Unique Features: Cool Tech Spandex
  • Price: $15.99
Buy On Amazon

Pros

  • Ultra breathable
  • Lightweight
  • Excellent grip properties

Cons

  • Need to handwash
  • All synthetic materials
Franklin Pickleball Glove

Franklin Pickleball Glove

  • Materials: Leather & Leather Palm
  • Right/Left Hand: Yes
  • Full/Finger Glove: Finger
  • Grip Quality: Excellent
  • Unique Features: Comfort Grip & Extra Padding- Thumb & Forefinger
  • Price: $12.69
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Pros

  • Pickleball designed glove
  • Durable
  • Moisture wicking
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • Padded palm not as tactile
  • Can stretch out over time
Cuzma HexPro Pickleball Glove

Cuzma HexPro Pickleball Glove

  • Materials: Cabretta Leather & ZinaTuff Reinforcements
  • Right/Left Hand: Yes
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: Excellent
  • Unique Features: ZinaTuff Reinforcements-Thumb & Forefinger, Copper Infused Fabric Wristband, Hexagon Print Cooling Technology
  • Price: $45.00
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Pros

  • Absorbent wristband keeps hands dry
  • Active charcoal bag for shape retention
  • 12 Colors
  • Warm

Cons

  • Expensive
Tourna Pickleball Glove

Tourna Pickleball Glove

  • Materials: Premium Calfskin & Terry
  • Right/Left Hand: Yes
  • Full/Finger Glove: Both
  • Grip Quality: Excellent
  • Unique Features: Terry upper & Leather on fingers and palm
  • Price: $11.95
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Pros

  • Comfortable fit
  • Warm and cool weather wear
  • Affordable
  • Terry back for sweat absorption

Cons

  • No mesh breathable panels
Python Deluxe Racquetball Glove

Python Deluxe Racquetball Glove

  • Materials: Cabretta Leather, Nylon/Spandex
  • Right/Left Hand: Yes
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: The Best
  • Unique Features: Perforated Leather, Grip Strip Tackified Palm, Dive Pads-Knuckles
  • Price: $21.95
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Pros

  • One of the best grips
  • Warm and cool weather wear
  • Washable
  • Sweat resistant

Cons

  • Long term durability
Bionic Men's Racquetball Glove

Bionic Men’s RH Racquetball Glove

  • Materials: Sheepskin Leather, Terry, Lycra
  • Right/Left Hand: Right Hand
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: Very Good
  • Unique Features: Lycra Web & Motion Zones, Pre-rotated Finger Design, Anatomical Relief Pad System
  • Price: $19.80
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Pros

  • Light and secure grip
  • Keeps hands cool & dry
  • Durable
  • Fitted wristband provides support

Cons

  • Heavier than other gloves
  • Does get stiff when wet
Head Airflow Tour Racquetball Glove

Head Airflow Tour Racquetball Glove

  • Materials: Cabretta Leather, Lycra/Nylon Mesh
  • Right/Left Hand: Both
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: Excellent
  • Unique Features: Perforated Leather Palms, Airprene Knuckle protection, Nylon Mesh/Lycra Backing
  • Price: $19.95
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Pros

  • Excellent grip
  • Great air flow
  • Best cooling
  • Great looking

Cons

  • Hand wash
  • Long term durability

What Are The Best Women’s Pickleball Gloves?

Selkirk Attaktix Women's Glove

Selkirk Attaktix Women’s Pickleball Glove

  • Materials: Cabretta Leather
  • Right/Left Hand: Right
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: Excellent
  • Unique Features: Perforated Leather Palms, FlexFit Compression Technology-Fit
  • Price: $39.95
Buy On Amazon

Pros

  • Excellent grip
  • Comfortable tight fit
  • absorb moisture
  • Premium leather

Cons

  • Hand wash
  • Expensive
Head Web Glove

Head Web Glove

  • Materials: Synthetic Leather & Spandex
  • Right/Left Hand: Right
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: Excellent
  • Unique Features: Lightweight Synthetic Leather, Silicone Webbing Across the Palm, Cool Tech Spandex (ventilated)
  • Price: $20.00
Buy On Amazon

Pros

  • One of the best grips
  • Comfortable tight fit
  • Keeps hands cool
  • Washable

Cons

  • Long term durability
Gloveit Glove

GloveIt (Golf Glove)

  • Materials: Cabretta Leather, Lycra
  • Right/Left Hand: Both
  • Full/Finger Glove: Full
  • Grip Quality: Very Good
  • Unique Features: UV50
  • Price: $19.95
Buy On Amazon

Pros

  • Good grip
  • Comfortable tight fit
  • Keeps hands cool
  • Breathable

Cons

  • Long term durability
  • Hand wash

Glove Buyers Guide: Choosing The Best Pickleball Glove

Here’s a guide on what to consider when buying your next, or even your first, pickleball gloves.

Understanding Your Needs

Before you start shopping, think about why you want a pickleball glove. Are you looking for a better grip, more comfort, or better sweat management? Maybe all three? Once you’re clear on what you need, it’ll be easier to sift through the options.

Material: The Make or Break

The materials used in pickleball gloves can greatly impact its grip and comfort.

  • Neoprene and Lycra gloves are durable and offer a good grip. They’re also quite flexible, so they won’t restrict your hand movements.
  • Leather gloves feel more premium and offer excellent durability, but they might not be as breathable as synthetic materials. So many times, they are combined with more breathable fabrics.
  • Mesh and other breathable materials can keep your hands cooler, reducing sweat and maintaining a good grip.
  • Some gloves also come with tackified or textured surfaces for an even better grip.

Consider the typical climate in which you’ll be playing and whether breathability, durability, or a balance of both is most important.

Size: The Perfect Fit

Like a good partner, your glove should be a perfect fit. Too loose, and you lose grip and control. Too tight, and it can restrict movement and become uncomfortable. Many manufacturers provide sizing charts to help you choose the right fit.

Remember, your dominant hand (the one you hold your paddle with) may be larger due to muscle development, so measure accordingly.

Standard Sizing Chart
Standard Sizing Chart

Fingerless vs. Full-Finger Gloves

Fingerless gloves allow for more airflow and may give you a better feel of the paddle, but they offer less protection. On the other hand, full-finger gloves provide better protection and may enhance grip but might feel slightly warmer and slightly reduce the ‘touch’ feel. Think about what’s more important: protection, grip, touch, or cool comfort.

Design and Color

While this might not impact your game, having a glove that matches your style can make you feel more confident on the court. Luckily, pickleball gloves come in a variety of colors and designs.

Price: Quality vs. Budget

Lastly, you need to consider your budget. While you can find affordable gloves, remember that higher-priced gloves often offer better durability and features. That said, a higher price does not always guarantee better performance. It’s about finding a balance between quality and what you’re willing to spend.

To wrap up, finding the right pickleball glove requires some thought about your specific needs and preferences. But once you’ve considered all these aspects, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect glove for your game.

Happy shopping, and see you on the court!

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