As a goalie, your gloves are your most important tool on the field. They protect your hands, help you grip the ball, and can even influence the trajectory of a shot.
When you get a new pair of goalie gloves, you want to make sure you take the proper steps to break them in, protect them, and keep them in top condition.
In this post, we’ll go over some tips on what to do with a new pair of goalie gloves.
Let’s get started.
What to do with a new pair of Goalie Gloves?
- Break them in gradually by wearing them during practice sessions or training drills.
- Protect them with glove liners and proper storage to absorb sweat and keep the gloves from getting too damp, which can damage the latex.
- Clean them regularly with glove wash, water, and a dry towel to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
- Know when to replace them by looking out for signs such as cracking or peeling latex, loss of grip on the ball, or uncomfortable fit.
1. Break Them In
When you first get your new gloves, they might feel stiff and uncomfortable. This is completely normal – new gloves need to be broken in before they’ll feel like a natural extension of your hands.
The best way to break them in is to wear them during practice sessions or training drills. This will help them mold to the shape of your hands and become more flexible.
Make sure to wear them for short periods at first, gradually increasing the amount of time you spend on them.
You can also try putting a little bit of water on the palms to help soften the latex. Be careful not to overdo it – too much water can damage the gloves.
2. Protect Them
Goalie gloves are an investment, so it’s important to take care of them. One way to do this is to wear a pair of glove liners underneath them. This will help absorb sweat and keep the gloves from getting too damp, which can damage the latex.
Another way to protect your gloves is to store them properly. When you’re not using them, make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent latex deterioration and keep the gloves in top condition for longer.
3. Clean Them Regularly
Goalie gloves can get pretty dirty throughout a game or practice session. It’s important to clean them regularly to keep them in top condition. Here’s how:
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down the palms and fingers of the gloves. This will remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
- Apply a small amount of glove wash to the palms and fingers of the gloves. This will help remove any built-up dirt or grime.
- Rinse the gloves with water and then use a dry towel to pat them dry. Don’t wring them out or twist them, as this can damage the latex.
4. Know When to Replace Them
No matter how well you take care of your goalie gloves, they will eventually wear out. It’s important to know when it’s time to replace them so that you can continue to play at your best.
Here are some signs that it’s time to get a new pair of gloves:
- The latex is starting to crack or peel.
- The gloves have lost their grip on the ball.
- Your gloves are uncomfortable or don’t fit properly anymore.
When it’s time to replace your gloves, make sure to invest in a high-quality pair that will last you for many games to come.
Final Thoughts
Getting a new pair of goalie gloves is always exciting, but it’s important to take the proper steps to break them in, protect them, and keep them in top condition.
By following the tips outlined in this post, you can ensure that your gloves will provide you with the best possible performance on the field.
Remember to break them in gradually, protect them with glove liners and proper storage, clean them regularly, and know when it’s time to replace them.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful goalie.
You can also read: What do you do with old goalkeeper gloves?
