A golf glove should feel snug without restricting your hand. If you're choosing a new glove, focus on the fit across your palm, the length of the fingers, and how it feels around a club grip, not just the size printed on the label.
Start with the correct hand
Most golfers wear a glove on their lead hand: the left hand for a right-handed swing and the right hand for a left-handed swing. Check the hand listed on the product before selecting your size.
Check the palm and fingertips
The material should sit close to your palm without loose folds or bunching. Your fingers should reach comfortably into the glove's fingers, with little unused material at the tips. You should be able to open and close your hand without pinching or discomfort.
Test it around a grip
Hold a club with your usual grip pressure. The glove should stay in place rather than shift across your palm. If it pulls painfully across the knuckles or prevents comfortable movement, try another size or fit. If it wrinkles noticeably or slides around, it may be too roomy.
Use the product's size chart
Follow the measuring instructions for the specific glove you're buying. Sizes can vary between brands and models, so your usual size is a starting point, not a guarantee. If you're between sizes, compare your measurements and consider the glove's material rather than automatically sizing up or down.
Consider cadet sizing when available
Cadet gloves generally have shorter fingers and a wider palm than regular gloves of a comparable size. If a regular glove fits your palm but leaves excess material at the fingertips, a cadet option may be worth trying. Check the manufacturer's chart for the actual dimensions.
Don't rely on stretching to fix a poor fit
Some materials relax with wear, but a new glove should still be comfortable from the start. Avoid choosing one that feels painfully tight or expecting a loose glove to become snug. Recheck fit when replacing an older glove, since wear can change how it feels.
Before your next round, make three quick checks: no loose palm folds, no excessive fingertip space, and a comfortable hold on the club.