Buying Guide
Find Your Perfect Pair Football Gloves
Find gloves that match your style and performance needs.
Last updated: 20 January 2026 | 3 min read
Looking to replace your worn-out football gloves or add a second pair to your kit? Whether you’re a wide receiver, running back, lineman, or flag football player, this guide will help you choose the right gloves for your game. Football gloves aren’t just about style, they improve grip, protect your hands, and boost comfort during every play. From tough tackles to fast catches, the right pair can make all the difference.
Why Football Gloves Matter
In every position, performance and protection go hand in hand. Gloves help players maintain control in rain or cold, protect against turf burns and cleats, and absorb impact. Linemen benefit from wrist and hand support, while receivers and ball carriers rely on a strong grip and flexible feel.
Choose the right model
Receiver gloves
The most frequently chosen gloves.
Best for: Receivers, Running Backs, Linebackers, Defensive Backs, Quarterbacks, Athletes, Flag Football and 7v7 Football
Features & Benefits
- Lightweight design for maximum hand flexibility and speed
- Sticky palm grip (often tacky silicone) for better ball control
- Snug, second-skin fit for enhanced feel and precision
- Prioritizes speed, dexterity, and grip over protection
Padded receiver gloves
Great for offensive players who need hand protection and for linemen or defenders involved in regular tackling.
Best for: Offensive Linemen, Defensive Linemen, Running Backs, Linebackers
Features & Benefits
- Combines grip of receiver gloves with extra hand protection
- Light padding on fingers or back of hand for minor impacts
- Maintains flexibility and grip performance
- More durable than standard receiver gloves
- Balances catching performance with added safety
Lineman Gloves
Built for linemen, offering strong padding with a lightweight and flexible design.
Best for: Offensive Linemen (Tackles, Guards, Centers) Defensive Linemen (Tackles, Ends, Edge Rushers)
Features & Benefits
- Heavy-duty padding for knuckles, fingers, and back of the hand
- Reinforced wrist support for added stability during blocking
- Less flexible but highly protective
- Offers grip for holding off opponents, not for catching
- Designed to withstand constant contact and high-impact plays
Finding the Right Size
Wearing the right size football gloves is key to performance, grip, and comfort. To find your size, measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger. Also, measure the width of your palm. Once you have both numbers, check the size chart for the brand you're buying, sizing can be different from one brand to another.
A football glove should fit snugly, not too tight, but not loose either. If the gloves are too small, they can restrict movement. If they’re too big, you’ll lose grip and control. Always check the size guide listed with each product to make sure you get the best fit for your position and playing style.
Now that you’ve found the perfect fit and style, all that’s left is to pick your favorite color, and you’re game ready!
Maintenance & Glove Care
Taking good care of your football gloves will keep them performing at their best, and help them last longer. Whether you're playing in heat, rain, or cold, here’s how to protect your gear:
Care Tips to Extend Glove Life
- Wipe your gloves clean after every use using a damp cloth or mild glove wash.
- Let them air dry completely before storing, never use a dryer or washing machine.
- Store flat or in a cool, dry place to preserve the grip and avoid odors.
- Never leave gloves in your bag while wet, this leads to bacteria and quicker wear.
Boost Your Grip Like the Pro's
- Use a Gorilla Gold grip-enhancing towel to refresh stickiness during the game. Rub it lightly over your gloves (or ball) for extra grip, it's legal and safe to use.
- Combine it with a field towel to keep gloves dry and clean between plays.
- Regularly drying and re-gripping helps you perform better, especially in sweaty or rainy conditions.
