Getting your goalie gloves on shouldn’t feel like an uphill battle, but if you’ve ever struggled to squeeze into a pair—especially new or tight-fitting ones—you’re not alone. Whether you're prepping for a match or practice, there are a few tricks you can use to slide them on without risking damage or frustration. Here’s how to make the process easier and protect your gloves in the long run.

Prepping Your Goalie Gloves

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Before you even try putting your gloves on, preparation is key. Of course, size matters here—if you’re trying to squeeze into gloves that are too snug, then you’re bound to have a rough time. But assuming if you’ve sized youre gloves properly, here’s how you can get them on without the struggle:

1. Remove the plastic film: If your gloves are fresh out of the box, they might have a plastic layer on the palms. Carefully peel it off to avoid tearing the latex.

2. Prewash them: Washing new gloves helps soften the latex and removes any leftover chemicals from manufacturing. Just rinse them with lukewarm water—no soap—and give them a few minutes to air dry naturally, away from heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight.

3. Let them dry naturally: Don’t rush the drying process by exposing gloves to heat. Air-drying is best to keep the latex intact and functional.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Them On

Once you’ve prepped your gloves, it’s time to get them on:

1. Loosen everything: Unstrap the gloves fully. This will give you more room to work with and prevent any damage to the seams.

2. Thumb first: Slide your thumb into the glove first. Once it’s snug, gradually work your fingers in one at a time, pushing your hand in slowly.

3. Use the pull tab: Many gloves come with a reinforced tab at the wrist. Use it to help pull the glove on without stretching the material or risking damage.

4. Adjust the fit: After getting your hand in, adjust the straps for a secure fit around your wrist, but don’t overtighten—comfort is key.

Pro Tip: When putting on your second glove, don’t worry if it feels awkward. Your thumb might feel bulkier with the first glove already on, but the same process applies: patience is key.

Extra Tips to Make it Easier

Sometimes, the simplest things can make a big difference. With that said, you can take a few extra steps to make the process smoother. 

First off, try dampening the palms. Slightly wetting the palms before a match can activate the latex and improve grip, making them easier to wear and use. And second, if necessary, break them in. New gloves often need a few practice sessions before they reach their full flexibility. Don’t rush to use them in a game right away—let them soften up during practice first.

Mistakes to Avoid

You might be tempted to pull or tug at your gloves when they get stuck, but that’s a recipe for disaster. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

1. Pulling from the bottom: This can rip the seams and shorten the glove’s lifespan. Always use the wrist pull tabs if they’re available.

2. Using too much force: Take your time. Rushing the process can tear or stretch the latex, reducing their effectiveness.

3. Neglecting maintenance: Failing to clean your gloves properly after each session can cause them to lose grip and wear out faster.

Some of these mistakes are a less of an issue assuming you’ve chosen high-quality goalie gloves. Here at Storelli, we offer a wide range of heavy-duty goalkeeper gloves that can take a beating (of course, don’t abuse them!). They still need good care and maintenance, but they’re less likely to succumb to accidental tugging or excessive force. 

Choose Goalie Gloves That are Fit for Winning

Getting goalie gloves on shouldn’t be a workout in itself. With a little patience and the right techniques, you can get them on smoothly while preserving their performance. Well-maintained gloves with a snug fit will give you the confidence to make every save. So, take care of them, and they’ll take care of you on the pitch.

Looking for soccer goalie gloves for a youth or adult player? Browse through our line of gloves for goalkeepers to find their perfect fit.