The Goalkeeper Glove market can often be confusing and expensive to navigate and it is worthwhile noting that just because a pair of gloves are expensive, does not mean that they are safe!
Goalkeeper Gloves are a vital piece of equipment that provide comfort and protection for goalkeepers during matches and training sessions. With the constant evolution of the game and the ever-increasing speed and power of shots, it is essential for goalkeepers to wear safe gloves that protect them from serious injuries whilst still being made of the best materials so as not to affect performance or durability.
The importance of wearing safe goalkeeper gloves cannot be understated, with Goalkeepers finding themselves at risk of experiencing finger and wrist dislocations, fractures, and sprains which if not taken care of properly can lead to life-long injuries. The right pair of gloves can help prevent these injuries by providing support to the fingers and wrists. The padding on the gloves provides a cushioning effect that absorbs the impact of the ball, which can reach speeds of over 100 mph during a game. Additionally, gloves can help improve grip in a variety of weather conditions, which reduces the likelihood of the ball slipping out of the keeper's hands and costing a goal.
Goalkeeper gloves have come a long way since their introduction in the late 1950's. From 1980 to 2010 there were very little advancements or changes in design until big brands like Nike and Adidas released strapless gloves which have been growing rapidly in popularity. Our issue with this however, is that the strap was originally designed to help support the wrists, and we have found especially with younger goalkeepers that these 'cool' new strapless gloves often leave their wrists with no protection should they catch the ball wrongly, resulting in a much higher chance of experiencing a staved or broken wrist.
With so many options out there, Goalkeepers need to ensure that they are wearing gloves that have been designed with safety in mind. Some of the essential features that can help protect Goalkeepers are:
- Wrist support: The wrist is a crucial part of a goalkeeper's anatomy, and it is essential to wear gloves that offer adequate wrist support to prevent injuries.
- Finger protection: Gloves with finger protection can help to prevent finger dislocations, fractures, and sprains, which are common injuries among goalkeepers (We recommend these for all GK's who are still learning the correct techniques. Most Pro's are at a level that they do not require finger spines or opt to tape their fingers instead!)
- Good grip: Gloves with a good grip can help to reduce the likelihood of the ball slipping out of the goalkeeper's hands, which can often cause injuries.
- Breathability: Goalkeepers need to wear gloves that are breathable to prevent excessive sweating, rashes and discomfort during play.
- Proper sizing: Wearing gloves that are the correct size is crucial. Gloves that are too small can restrict blood flow to the hands, while gloves that are too large can reduce grip and make it difficult to control the ball.
The importance of wearing safe goalkeeper gloves cannot be overstated. Goalkeepers need to wear gloves that are designed to protect them from injuries while also providing adequate support and grip. Investing in high-quality gloves is a small price to pay for a Goalkeepers safety and well-being, and it can also help improve their performance on the pitch.
Our BGK Pro/SR/DR glove ranges all come with the highest safety specifications. With full locking wrist straps, removable finger spines, 4mm latex and full 360 thumb lock technology. Whilst no Goalkeeper glove can guarantee protection from the potential injury risks of being a Goalkeeper, with the correct training and choice of glove you are giving yourself the best chance!