There's nothing "wimpy" about weight-training gloves, in fact, using them may be key to making you less of a wimp than ever. That's because weight-training gloves are one of the only weight-training accessories that help you reach your potential during every exercise. Weight-lifting gloves keep you safe and help you train longer and harder.
Function
Weight-training gloves have a variety of functions, particularly pressure absorption, a decreased likelihood of calluses and a better grip. The cushion of the gloves will absorb pressure that would otherwise be placed on your hands and wrist, eliminating unnecessary strain and discomfort. Weight-training gloves also prevent painful and unsightly calluses, which can build on ungloved hands after repeated lifting. Workouts often lead to sweaty hands, which can be hazardous when gripping a heavy bar. Weight-training gloves can take care of this problem as well.
Types
Weight-lifting gloves come in two basic types, those with a wrist wrap and those without. It is often recommended to use wrist wraps when lifting heavy, although wrist wraps can be constrictive on the mobility of the wrist for some exercises. Also, separate wrist wraps can be purchased to be used in tandem with gloves without wraps.
Benefits
The benefits associated with weight-training gloves are potentially harder and longer workouts, which can result in greater results due to the lack of hand and wrist fatigue. Keeping hands soft and callus-free are cosmetic benefits that might influence someone to wear weight-lifting gloves. Ultimately, the confidence you can get from knowing a barbell will not slip out of your hands thanks to weight-lifting gloves. This benefit is more than a safety consideration because it leads to bigger gains.
Considerations
You don't want weight-lifting gloves that will pool sweat inside, so look for gloves made to wick sweat away. These include models with built-in neoprene inserts that keep sweat from the palms. Weight lifting gloves should fit snugly so they don't slip. Leather and neoprene gloves can stretch for a good fit and are recommended over nylon for their gripping ability during heavy lifting.
Cost
Weight-lifting gloves at Bodybuilding.com's online store range in price from $9 to $36, as of 2010. Higher priced-models promise more benefits, such as breathability, wrist support and durability. Cosmetic style is also a factor in the price of weight-lifting gloves.
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