One question that sometimes arises among players is whether or not to wear a specialty pickleball glove. Let's delve into the pros and cons of utilizing this accessory.
Pros of Wearing a Glove:
- Enhanced Grip: A well-fitted glove can provide a better grip on the paddle, especially in hot and humid conditions where hands may become sweaty. This can lead to better control and accuracy.
- Protection: Gloves can offer some protection against blisters and calluses, especially for new players, those who don’t play often, or those with sensitive skin. They can also offer protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
- Warmth: In colder weather, a glove can help keep your hands warm, allowing you to play comfortably even when temperatures drop.
Cons of Wearing a Glove:
- Reduced Feel: While gloves can enhance grip, they can also reduce your feel of the paddle, making you hold on to it too tightly and thereby potentially affecting your ability to hit softer, more delicate shots. It is important to note, however, that you can buy open-fingered gloves which some players claim provides better control.
- Increased Sweat: Some players find that wearing a glove traps sweat on their hands, leading to discomfort and potential skin irritation.
- Added Cost and Maintenance: Gloves are an additional expense, and you'll need to replace and clean them periodically, especially when they get dirty and worn out.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear a glove is a personal one. Consider your individual needs and preferences. If your primary reason for wanting to wear a glove is because of sweaty hands, consider alternatives like tacky overgrips, powder, and hand towels, since these items won’t reduce your feel of the paddle, potentially allowing you to hit shots with greater finesse. Above all, though, remember that in pickleball, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game! Keep pickling!
