How to take care of your goalkeeper gloves and extend their lifespan
Goalkeeper gloves are one of the most important pieces of equipment for a goalkeeper. They protect your hands, enhance your grip, and improve your confidence on the pitch. However, they are also highly technical and delicate products that require special attention and care. If you neglect or misuse your goalkeeper gloves, they will deteriorate faster and lose their performance and durability. Therefore, it is important to take care of your goalkeeper gloves and extend their lifespan. Here are some tips and steps to help you out.
Before first use
Before you use your new goalkeeper gloves for the first time, you need to wash them with warm water (preferably between 35 – 40ºC) and let them dry naturally. This will help to eliminate any remaining soap or chemicals that were used in the production process, and activate the latex palm for optimal grip. Do not use any detergents or solvents, as they can damage the latex. Do not dry them on a radiator or other sources of direct heat, as they can dry out the latex.
Before playing
Before you play with your goalkeeper gloves, you need to moisten them with water (preferably warm) to improve their grip and shock absorption. You can also use a special glove wash or glove gel that can enhance the grip and protect the latex. Do not soak them in water, as this can make them heavy and slippery. Do not spit on them or lick them, as this can introduce bacteria and cause infections.
During playing
During playing, you need to keep your goalkeeper gloves slightly damp by occasionally sprinkling water on them or wiping them with a wet towel. This will help to maintain their grip and prevent them from drying out. You also need to avoid unnecessary contact with the ground or other rough surfaces, as this can cause abrasion and wear and tear on the latex. You also need to avoid pulling or tugging on the gloves, as this can damage the seams and stitching.
After playing
After playing, you need to wash your goalkeeper gloves with warm water (around 35ºC) and a mild soap or a special glove wash. This will help to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can decrease the grip and cause odor and infection. You can also use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the latex palm and remove any stubborn stains. Do not wring or squeeze the gloves, as this can damage the shape and structure of the gloves.
After washing
After washing, you need to let your goalkeeper gloves dry naturally at room temperature. You can hang them up or lay them flat on a towel or rack. Do not expose them to direct sunlight or artificial light, as this can impair the grip and durability of the latex. Do not use a hair dryer or other sources of direct heat, as this can dry out and crack the latex.
After drying
After drying, you need to store your goalkeeper gloves in a cool, dark, and dry place. You can use a glove bag or a glove wallet that can protect them from dust, moisture, and light. Do not store them in a plastic bag or a sealed container, as this can trap moisture and cause mold and mildew. Do not store them in a car or a garage, as this can expose them to extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Additional tips
You can use two pairs of goalkeeper gloves: one for training and one for matches. This will help to extend the lifespan of both pairs and ensure optimal performance. - You can rotate your goalkeeper gloves during matches: one pair for each half. This will help to prevent them from getting too wet or dirty and maintain their grip.
- You can pre-wash your goalkeeper gloves before each use: this will help to reactivate the latex palm and improve their grip.
- You can apply some talcum powder or corn starch inside your goalkeeper gloves: this will help to absorb moisture and prevent slippage inside the glove.
Conclusion
Taking care of your goalkeeper gloves is essential for your comfort, performance, and durability as a goalkeeper. By following these tips and steps, you can extend the lifespan of your goalkeeper gloves and enjoy their benefits for longer. Remember to always wash, dry, and store your goalkeeper gloves properly after each use, and to avoid any actions that can damage or degrade them. Happy saving!