Why Do Golfers Remove Their Gloves on the Green?

Subhash brings up an interesting observation about why golfers tend to take off their gloves when they reach the green. Let's delve into the reasons behind this seemingly peculiar behavior and explore the nuances of why a glove is even used for a golf swing in the first place.

Use of Glove in the Golf Swing

Swinging a golf club without a glove is fully possible, and there is no rule mandating their use. However, the primary reason golfers wear gloves is due to the grip that is required during the swing. The left hand, for right-handed golfers, is the leading hand and plays a critical role in initiating the swing. It is used to lift the club and start the motion, while the right hand serves as a support hand. The club is initially gripped with the left hand, and then the right hand is added. To maintain a firm and non-slip grip during the entire swing, especially when there is sweat on the hands, golfers wear gloves on the leading hand.

The Importance of Grip in Putting

Putting is a simple stroke that requires minimal movement, but holding the putter firmly is essential. The putter is held with both hands, typically with an overlapping grip, and the 'palm' grip is preferred. Many golfers, including pros like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player, used to wear gloves during their putting sessions, primarily for better 'feel.'

Modern Golfers and Their Perspective

Today, however, most modern golfers don't feel the need to put on gloves while putting. Pros attribute this to the modern 'feel' they can achieve, although some, like Subhash, believe the difference is minimal. Nevertheless, the main reasons for removing the glove can be categorized into a few factors:

Lack of Necessity

Many argue that there is no longer a need to wear gloves while putting. This perspective is supported by the fact that pros and amateurs alike sometimes remove their gloves when on the green. Some modern golfers find that the glove does not offer significant benefits, and in fact, can cause discomfort or restrict their grip.

Comfort and Health Considerations

One compelling reason to take the glove off is for comfort and health, especially in hot and humid climates. As a resident and frequent golfer of Houston, Texas, a very hot and humid environment, many golfers remove their gloves to let them air out and dry. Subhash's son takes this further by using multiple gloves and rotating them between shots, hanging them in the golf cart for ventilation.

Improving 'Feel'

Another group of players maintains that removing the glove improves their 'feel.' This argument suggests that the bare-handed grip can provide a more direct connection with the club, enhancing precision and control over the putts. The belief is that the naked hand can sense subtle movements and changes in the putter more acutely, potentially leading to better results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the practice of golfers removing their gloves on the green is a product of a multifaceted discussion involving tradition, comfort, and performance. Whether to keep the glove on or take it off remains a personal choice depending on individual preferences, the environment, and the specific situation at hand. For many, the decision is based on a combination of these factors, rather than any rigid rule or universal preference.

While the tradition of wearing gloves during the swing is well-established and practical, taking them off during putting is equally valid and reflects the evolving nature of the sport. No matter the choice, the goal is consistent: to perform the best under the given circumstances.