Choosing your gloves
Sailing gloves protect hands from rope friction and improve grip on sheets and halyards. Here are the 5 points to check.
1. Finger length
Two-fingerless gloves (thumb and index exposed) provide the dexterity needed for knots and small adjustments, such as the Magic Marine Brand 2-finger gloves or the Rooster Dura Pro 2. Five-fingerless gloves expose all the phalanges, such as the Brand 5-finger gloves, the Dura Pro 5, or the Windesign 5-finger sailing gloves.
Magic Marine Brand 2-finger gloves
2. Palm and grip
The palm is constantly working in contact with the ropes. Materials like Amara or synthetic suede improve grip on ropes, even when wet. The Windesign gloves use a reinforced Amara palm, the Brand gloves feature an AX suede palm with Kevlar-stitched reinforcements, and the Magic Marine 5-finger Racing gloves have a palm with HAR protection.
Windesign 5-finger sailing gloves
3. Reinforcements and ergonomics
For regattas and mainsail sheets held in the hand for long periods, reinforcements on each finger and a pre-curved shape reduce fatigue. The Dura Pro 5 have 3D-contoured palms and fingers with individual reinforcements, while the 5-finger Racing gloves feature a pre-curved shape. For beginner use, a simpler glove like the Brand is sufficient.
Rooster Dura Pro 5 gloves
4. Wrist closure
A hook-and-loop closure at the wrist keeps the glove in place and allows for adjustment. Ensure it does not snag on ropes or your wetsuit. The cuff can be made of neoprene or mesh, as seen on the 5-finger Racing gloves.
Magic Marine 5-finger Racing gloves
5. Size
A glove that is too big will form creases in the palm and cause blisters; a glove that is too small will hinder hand closure. Measure your hand circumference and compare it to the brand's chart. Junior sizes are available: Junior Brand 2-finger gloves, Junior Racing 2-finger gloves, and Windesign gloves in sizes JS, JM, and JL.
Magic Marine Junior Brand 2-finger gloves
Find all models in our sailing gloves collection.