What To Look For
Hand and finger protection and abrasion resistance are key lifting glove components. Certain styles are designed ergonomically with built-in cushions at the palm and around the finger joints to prevent blisters and chaffing. Open finger holes and grip padding for palm and upper hand protection are added bonuses. The NewGrip men's glove is made from neoprene and has gel padding for shock absorption. According to Weight Lifting Complete, "Newgrips ... the best lifting gloves ... will help you ... build muscle faster." The Valeo Women's Ocelot lifting glove is made from full-grain leather and features ergo-foam padding for extra grip.
Common Pitfalls
Tightness around the fingers, back and side indicate Lycra panels for expansion were not part of the glove design. Any sign of abrasion as well as vibration during lifting indicates the glove does not have pressure absorption padding as well. Make sure the gloves include reinforced stitching to avoid torn seams. It is also important that lifting gloves with wrist wraps are adjustable to ensure comfort and support. Read the hang tag label for men or women designed gloves. For example, a slim-cut design with three-quarter-length fingers are designed for the natural shape of a woman's hand.
Where To Buy
Online stores like Buy.com, A1Supplements, Dazadi and Dick's Sporting Goods offer a variety of brands and styles along with best-rated customer testimonials. Online websites like Bodybuilding.com list their top-sellers and descriptions. Retail stores like Sports Authority and Modell's sell a variety of different brands. Niketown sells its own brand.
Cost
As of 2010, the men's NewGrip lifting gloves retail for $24.99. Men's Harbinger gloves range from $14.99 to $44.99. The IFBB Pro glove offers a patented breathable fabric and retails for $34.99. The Schiek 530 Platinum Lifting men's series retails for $29.99 and the women's version retails for $29.95. The women's Valeo Ocelot lifting gloves retail for $24.99 and other styles range from $11.99 to $21.99. The women's Grizzly Breast Cancer gloves retail for $34.99, which includes a $2 donation to the Breast Cancer Foundation.
Comparison Shopping
Look for breathable high performance fabric. According to Bodybuilding.com, "Superior to neoprene, the patented high-performance Breathe-O-Prene AR SILVERtec fabric is breathable, moisture wicking, exceptionally supportive, latex-free, and provides 4-way stretch and extreme durability."
Insider Tips
Check the labels for genuine high quality top-grain leather. Economically driven brands include synthetic leathers with stretch Spandex as part of their non-slip grip. Over time, leather gloves capture odor from constant use. It is important that your brand is machine wash and dry.
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