Leather Vs Synthetic Golf Gloves

There are two main types of golf gloves: leather and synthetic. The differences between these gloves are significant, but it’s not as simple as saying one is better than the other. You’ll have to look at performance, comfort and durability when deciding which glove is right for you. If you are trying to decide on leather vs. synthetic, here are all of the details you’ll need to make a smart choice.There are two main types of golf gloves: leather and synthetic. The differences between these gloves are significant, but it’s not as simple as saying one is better than the other. You’ll have to look at performance, comfort and durability when deciding which glove is right for you. If you are trying to decide on leather vs. synthetic, here are all of the details you’ll need to make a smart choice.

Leather Golf Gloves (Pros /Cons / Who Should Wear?)

Leather golf gloves are known for their premium materials. You’ll see different types of leather used including lamb leather, Cabretta leather, Pittards leather, and some leather hybrid materials. The leather gloves are thin, and they still give golfers plenty of interaction with the club without feeling like there is a barrier between the hands and the grip.

Pros of a Leather Golf Glove

The most important benefits of playing with a leather golf glove include:

• Premium feel and control

• Enhanced breathability

• A snug fit to the hand

When they say, “fit’s like a glove” they may have been talking about leather golf gloves like the Vice Golf Pure. The leather material provides a soft yet tacky feel so you naturally have a better connection with the club.

Many lower handicap golfers, golf traditionalists and professionals use leather gloves because of the feel and performance. However, golfers of any skill level can use leather.

Cons of a Leather Golf Glove

As we mentioned, leather golf gloves are not the perfect solution for all players. Some of the negatives of a leather golf glove include:

• Shorter lifespan

• Less durability when used in humid or rainy conditions

• Higher costs

• More care needed to ensure it dries

If you rip your glove off after a round and throw it in the bag without giving it time to dry, the leather gloves may not be best for you. The leather will get ruined over time and crack. Golfers on a budget may look for more budget friendly synthetic options that require less maintenance.

Synthetic Golf Gloves

Synthetic golf gloves are made with materials like spandex, mesh, microfiber and PU leather. Some feel and look very much like leather but their performance is different.

Pros of Synthetic Golf Gloves:

The benefits of synthetic golf gloves include:

• Durability especially in damp or humid conditions

• Lower cost

• Low maintenance

• Mesh type fabrics can be lighter weight in the summer months

The best synthetic gloves like the Vice Golf Duro will help you keep your golf budget in check and your hand properly affixed to the golf glove all at the same time. Synthetic gloves also tend to do a really good job preventing blisters as they can create a little more of a barrier between the golf grip and the hand.

Cons of Synthetic Golf Glove:

The synthetic gloves have a few negatives associated with them including:

• Less feedback

• Stiffer feel

The synthetic gloves tend to be a good low cost durable option for those who don’t want to deal with taking care of a leather glove. They also hold up longer and can be good for beginner players who are trying to protect against blisters.

What Golfers Are Saying (Leather vs. Synthetic)

If you are still on the fence about buying leather or synthetic golf gloves you can learn a bit from what fellow golfers have to say. Most find that they can feel the club better when they have a leather glove on and this improves control and consistency around the greens.

The problem of course is those hot and humid days where wet conditions can deteriorate the leather materials and make them unusable for the next round of play. Players who use synthetic gloves often keep the glove in play for months, where a leather glove can sometimes last just a handful of rounds.

You always have the option of using the affordable and durable synthetic glove and then just taking it off when you get close to the greens.

Which Glove is Right for You?

To make your decision between leather vs. synthetic gloves, first start with your budget. If budget is a concern the synthetic is going to be the better option.

If price is not a concern then you should make your decision based on feel. Leather gloves provide a better feel and connection with the club. It’s a smart option for golfers who never take the glove off or are more particular about the shots they play.

Test out a synthetic and leather gloves from Vice, where pricing is always fair, and decide which is a better fit for your golf game