BEST GOALKEEPER GLOVES 2024 (+ FITTING GUIDE)
You don’t have to be crazy to be a goalkeeper, but it helps. Never has a truer word been said.
Regularly taking up the most underappreciated role on the pitch is what you do. And for that, we only have praise. Taking crosses, late tackles and rocket volleys to the chin are all goalkeeping bread and butter to you.
But don’t forget, you do it all in partnership with your trusty allies. A pair of humble goalkeeper gloves. Those five-fingered mitts of material are the very things that can propel you from weekly drubbings to clean sheet glory.
There’s a lot of mixed info out there about goalie gloves, so we’re here to deliver straight facts. Plain and simple.
Feel free to rush off your line though, because we’re also spilling the beans on which are the best ‘keeper gloves in the world.
Here, catch this…
How To Measure Goalkeeper Glove Size
This really is step one. Getting the right fit for your new gloves is extremely important.
We’d all love to wear Gladiators-style foam fingers to cover the majority of the goal, but it’s just not in the rules. Damn.
Finding perfectly fitting goalie gloves will give you more control with the ball and ultimately, breathe confidence into your performance between the sticks.
As the ‘keeper, a ‘perfect fit’ is personal preference. It’s entirely up to you. Some prefer snug, some prefer loose. Your choice.
As a general rule, you can find your goalkeeper glove size by measuring from the bottom of your palm at the wrist, up to the tip of your middle finger (as pictured).
Be aware that the thickness of the glove you’re buying will also add a little extra bulk to the measurement.
Always remember, if you try a pair of new gloves and they aren’t right for you, then most retailers will allow for a free exchange. No worries.
How To Choose Goalkeeper Glove Cut
Step two. This is when things have the potential to get a little complicated. But that’s where we come in to simplify it.
Glove cut is the shaping which is given to the fingers of the goalkeeping gloves, including how it’s moulded and stitched together.
Each of these subtle changes can give an entirely different feel to ball handling and overall comfort.
In our example (pictured above), we’ve given you the five most common types. Although, some manufacturers offer their own bespoke mixtures and hybrids too.
Flat Palm Cut (FP)
This type of goalie glove is generally known to be the entry-level option, for the casual ‘keepers amongst us. Here are the key features of flat palm gloves:
- Flat palm gloves are the original design of glove
- Classic and basic looks
- Latex one-piece attached to the back of glove with stitched gussets in between fingers and palm
- Gussets are on the outside to give a looser feel on the hand
- The cheapest glove cut to buy
Roll Finger Cut (RF)
Another traditional type of glove for goalkeepers. The roll finger cut has latex which has been curved around the fingers.
- Roll finger gloves are still traditional and highly popular
- Latex is curved or ‘rolled’ (hence the name) around the fingers giving a closer feel
- The backhand is attached to the palm without gussets
- Commands a looser fit vs. negative cut gloves, but much tighter than flat palm
- Typically more expensive than flat palm options
Negative Cut (NC)
A much more modern option, the negative cut has become increasingly popular over the last decade or so.
- Single piece of latex attached to the backhand using gussets
- Gusset stitching is hidden inside the gloves (opposite to flat palm)
- Delivers a more natural fit with tighter finger spacing
- Offers more ball feel and control
- Expect to pay premium prices for this type of cut
Negative Roll Cut (NR)
Here we have a popular ‘hybrid’ type of glove. A combination of negative cut and roll finger designs.
- Fingers are rolled as with a roll finger cut, but palm is stitched inside like negative cut
- Modern aesthetic for modern goalkeepers
- Streamlined design gives improve flexibility and ball feel
- Even closer feeling fit than the negative cut
- Falls within the premium pricing bracket
Hybrid Cut
This is a catch-all. A hybrid cut simply refers to any glove which uses any combination of the above (or bespoke cuts).
- Combine your favourite glove attributes to suit your style
- Offers lots of options to test out
- Popular combinations include roll finger-negative and flat palm-negative
- Brands use different model names for their own hybrid cuts which can be confusing
- Due to the complicated build, premium prices should be expected
Best Goalkeeper Gloves 2024
Now that you know your exact size and you've found the cut that suits your game, it's time to head into our list of the best 'keeper gloves of the year...
5. Uhlsport Prediction Ultragrip
Image from Pro Direct
If you're after a glove that blends cutting-edge tech with standout style, these Uhlsport gloves might be your perfect match.
Designed for keepers who like to read the game and take control, these gloves come with a high-performance grip net structure on the backhand, boosting both flexibility and hold. The lattice pattern, seen on both the palm and backhand, ensures natural flexion for every finger while maximising grip with Uhlsport’s High Grip Lines for a more reliable catch.
Plus, the latex extends around the hand, giving you grip from all angles, so you’ll never fumble under pressure. The dual fix system’s two straps make fastening a breeze and give keepers a secure, ready-for-action feel.
This flat palm glove is ideal for those who like a bit of space. And let’s not forget the funky design – the intricate lattice pattern on the palms is a rare, stylish touch that guarantees you’ll stand out on the pitch.
4. Puma Future Pro Hybrid
If you're a next-gen keeper looking to level up, these Puma Future gloves might just be your perfect match.
These gloves are crafted for ultimate freedom of movement and responsiveness, letting you push your limits with ease. The hybrid design combines top-notch grip and protection, while a knitted material provides a snug, custom fit, making every catch and save feel secure.
The thumb wrap adds that satisfying contact between latex and ball, and the embossed latex backing not only feels flexible but also adds a powerful punch to your clearances.
With Duo Soft latex, you’re set for solid grip, rain or shine, and the dark navy with neon accents? Pure style. No wonder Ederson trusts Puma—these gloves are hard to pass up!
3. Reusch Attrakt Freegel Gold X
If you're ready to make game-changing saves, these Reusch Attrakt gloves are here to make it happen.
With their elite Reusch-Grip Gold X palm featuring the innovative GluePrint technology, these gloves offer an extra-sticky grip that shines in both wet and dry conditions. And let’s talk about that palm pattern—stylish and functional, the GluePrint is strategically applied to ensure reliable hold exactly where it matters.
Mostly flat-palm but with latex rolling around the fingertips, these gloves give you the perfect balance of snugness and ball control. The dispersed Freegel silicone on the backhand keeps your punches on point, adding stability while staying flexible enough for quick reflexes.
Plus, the Finger Support protection prevents hyperextension, so you can dive, catch, and punch with confidence. Reusch has outdone itself with this unreal design, a winning choice for keepers aiming to command the goal like the pros!
2. adidas Predator Pro Hybrid
If you're looking to guard the goal with the confidence of a pro, these gloves from the adidas Predator range are a top pick.
These gloves bring both style and substance to the pitch with their cool shades of blue and iconic adidas logo that really stands out. They feature High Definition Grip on the backhand, which means you can send clearances soaring with control and precision.
The hybrid cut design and grippy texture make these gloves as flexible as they are functional, allowing your hands to respond naturally to whatever save comes your way. An extended thumb wrap offers added security for catches, while the URG 2.0 latex palm keeps its reliable grip through rain or shine.
Plus, the strapless closure has been fine-tuned for a snug, streamlined fit. Slip these on, and you'll be ready to defend the net like Mary Earps herself!
1. Nike Vapor Grip3
This year, our top pick for goalkeeper gloves is hands-down the Nike Vapor Grip3—especially in this sleek new design.
Not only do they look sharp, but they’re also a bit friendlier on the budget compared to some high-end alternatives. Available in a range of colours to suit any kit, these gloves combine style with serious performance.
With foam cushioning and the Nike gloves All Conditions Control tech, they offer dependable grip in both rain or shine. The roll-flat cut features rollfinger elements around the thumb, forefinger, and pinky, so there’s no seam interference, while the flat palm on the middle fingers maximises control.
Plus, the extended palm gives you extra foam coverage, helping make every save feel secure. From beginner to Alisson Becker level, these gloves are a solid choice for any keeper!
Goalkeeper Gloves: FAQs
How Do You Make Goalkeeper Gloves Sticky?
It’s simple, good old-fashioned water will do the trick. This is why you’ll see pros on TV squirting their water bottle at them during breaks in play.
How Do You Clean Goalkeeper Gloves?
Wash your gloves with warm water, immediately after matches. This helps to clean any dirt off that could decrease the grip.
NEVER use solvents or harsh cleaning chemicals as this will damage the latex. You can use specialised glove cleaner, if you wish.
Only ever wash your gloves by hand and DO NOT put them in the washing machine.
When Did Goalkeepers Start Wearing Gloves?
Goalkeeper gloves have been around a lot longer than you think. The first goalie gloves were patented by William Sykes in 1885, three years before the Football League was formed!
Clearly it didn’t catch on, because it would take more than 80 years until England’s Gordon Banks trialed gloves at the 1970 World Cup in Mexico.
