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Step 1
Measure your glove size before you begin shopping. To ensure you properly protect your fingers, palm and wrist, determine the proper size by measuring the circumference of your hand at the widest part of the palm (without including your thumb). Round up to the closest inch and add an extra inch on top of that. That's generally your glove size. For example, if your initial measurement is 9-3/4 inches, try a size 11. Make sure you measure both hands and buy gloves to fit the larger of the two.
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Step 2
Try on many pairs of gloves until you find one with optimal comfort, features and fit. Just because you measured your glove size doesn't mean that all brands in that size will work for you.
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Step 3
Choose a goalkeeping glove that is sufficiently cushioned, but not so bulky that it inhibits your grip. Most gloves are padded with layers of soft foam to absorb impact.
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Step 4
Buy gloves designed to allow your skin to breathe. Even those padded with foam to minimize ball impact should have vents or mesh that allows air to circulate.
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Step 5
Look for goalkeeping gloves with a wide Velcro wrist cuff. The strap should provide support for your wrist when cinched properly and securely.
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Step 6
Select a glove with a surface that sticks to the ball. Most soccer gloves have a foam latex palm for grasping the ball. Be aware, however, that while excellent for gripping, latex is not very durable. Replace your gloves as the latex begins to break down.
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Step 7
Read through the instructions for your new goalkeeping gloves. Some manufacturers suggest wetting them before play, or spritzing the glove palms frequently with a spray bottle for increased viscosity and grip.
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Step 8
Buy a couple of pairs of gloves if you can afford to. Use one pair for games and one for practice. When your game gloves begin to show wear, downgrade them for practice use.
