Cadet vs. Regular Golf Glove

By William McCoy
Cadet golf gloves are a different shape than standard gloves.
Cadet golf gloves are a different shape than standard gloves.

When shopping for a new golf glove, you're faced with dozens of styles from several brands. Most golf gloves offer similar features, but not all golf gloves are manufactured the same way. If a glove is labeled with the term "cadet," it is shaped differently than a regular golf glove.

Glove Differences

Regular gloves are designed for golfers who have proportional hands, while cadet golf gloves are designed in men's sizes for golfers who have relatively short fingers coupled with wide palms. When placed side-by-side with a regular golf glove, the cadet glove is wider and shorter.

Fitting

Shop for fit first and fashion second. If you look at the shape of your hand and fingers, it might appear that you need a cadet glove. For some golfers, however, the type of glove they need is not obvious. When shopping for a new glove, try on a regular glove and a cadet glove to determine which fits best. Once you've determined the type for you, choose the brand and look.

Sizes

Regular gloves are available in men's and women's sizes ranging from small to double or even triple extra-large, with a bigger size range for men's than women's gloves. Cadet glove are available in men's sizes small through double extra-large, depending on the brand. Although the sizing indicates the gloves are for men, women with larger hands might find a good find among the men's regular or cadet sizes.

Comfort

Regardless of whether a standard or cadet glove is best for you, it should fit snugly but not be too tight. The tips of your fingers should just touch the tips of the gloves and the glove's leather (or synthetic material, depending on the glove) should be taught across your palm and the back of your hand.

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