Goalkeeper gloves are not only affected by the type of glove cut, weather condition, and surface, but also by the type of style of play. Different styles of play can have a significant impact on your preferences and needs as a goalkeeper. Therefore, it is important to choose the right goalkeeper gloves for different styles of play. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you out.
Shot-blockers
Shot-blockers are goalkeepers who focus on their primary role of blocking shots and preventing goals. They rely on their agility, reflexes, and positioning to make saves and keep clean sheets. They may not be very involved in the build-up play or distribution of the ball.
- Features
Shot-blockers usually prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a thicker and more cushioned latex palm that can provide excellent shock absorption and protection for their hands. - Shot-blockers may also prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a tighter and more snug fit that can provide better feel and control of the ball.
- Shot-blockers may also prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a roll finger or negative cut that can provide more latex contact with the ball and enhance their grip.
Recommendations
Some of the best goalkeeper gloves for shot-blockers you can find on the market are:
- Reusch Attrakt G3 Fusion Winter Goalkeeper Glove: These gloves have a durable and warm G3 Fusion latex palm that can offer excellent grip and cushioning on any surface. They also have a Pro Flex technology that can offer flexibility and mobility. They come in one color and seven sizes.
- Nike Vapor Grip 3 Goalkeeper Glove: These gloves have a soft and smooth latex palm that can offer great grip and feel on any surface. They also have a NikeGrip technology that can prevent slippage inside the glove. They come in two colors and six sizes.
- Adidas Predator Pro Goalkeeper Glove: These gloves have a grippy and resilient latex palm that can offer outstanding grip and cushioning on any surface. They also have a knit backhand that can offer flexibility and ventilation. They come in three colors and six sizes.
Ball-playing keepers
Ball-playing keepers are goalkeepers who are comfortable and confident with the ball at their feet. They act as an extra outfield player and participate in the build-up play and distribution of the ball. They may also initiate attacks or switch the play with their long-range passing.
Features
- Ball-playing keepers usually prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a thinner and more sensitive latex palm that can provide better touch and accuracy with the ball.
- Ball-playing keepers may also prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a looser and more flexible fit that can provide more freedom and mobility for their hands.
- Ball-playing keepers may also prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a flat palm or hybrid cut that can provide more space and comfort for their fingers.
Recommendations
Some of the best goalkeeper gloves for ball-playing keepers you can find on the market are:
- The One Glove Nova Type 2 Goalkeeper Glove: These gloves have a high-performance latex palm that can offer superb grip and durability on any surface. They also have an air mesh body that can offer breathability and comfort. They come in four colors and seven sizes.
- Ederson Goalkeeper Glove: These gloves have a specially designed latex palm that can offer superior grip and control on any surface. They also have a neoprene backhand that can offer warmth and comfort. They come in one color and six sizes.
- Uhlsport Supergrip HN Goalkeeper Glove: These gloves have a high-grip and high-durability Supergrip latex palm that can offer superior grip and cushioning on any surface. They also have a neoprene glove body that can offer warmth and comfort. They come in two colors and six sizes.
Sweeper keepers
Sweeper keepers are goalkeepers who play a proactive role in defending their goal. They act as an extra defender and anticipate any danger that arises behind their backline. They may also rush off their line to clear balls, intercept passes, or tackle opponents.
Features
- Sweeper keepers usually prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a harder and more durable latex palm that can resist wear and tear on any surface.
- Sweeper keepers may also prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a thicker and more protective latex palm that can prevent cuts and bruises on any surface.
- Sweeper keepers may also prefer goalkeeper gloves that have a windproof or waterproof backhand that can keep their hands dry and protected from the elements on any surface.
Recommendations
Some of the best goalkeeper gloves for sweeper keepers you can find on the market are:
- The One Glove Aqua Goalie Glove: These gloves have a specially formulated aqua latex palm that can perform exceptionally well on any surface. They also have a neoprene backhand that can keep your hands warm and dry. They come in four colors and seven sizes.
- FitsT4 Goalie Goalkeeper Glove: These gloves have a wear-resistant and breathable latex palm that can offer great grip and comfort on any surface. They also have a double wrist strap that can offer optimal wrist support and flexibility. They come in two colors and six sizes.
- Sportout Goalkeeping Glove: These gloves have a durable and anti-slip latex palm that can provide excellent grip and shock absorption on any surface. They also have two support straps that can protect your wrists from injury. They come in three colors and six sizes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right goalkeeper gloves for different styles of play can make a big difference in your comfort, performance, and style as a goalkeeper. By knowing the features and recommendations of each style of play, you can find the best goalkeeper gloves for your needs. Remember to always try on different goalkeeper gloves before buying them, and to break them in gradually before using them in a match. Happy saving!