Weightlifting gloves are specially constructed, usually from leather, to help trainees grip weights and protect their hands from the abrasion of metal lifting bars. Weight training has many health benefits including increased metabolic rate, prevention of age-related muscle and bone loss, and even fun. However, calluses, abrasions, blisters, sore hands and joints are all concerns, especially for female trainees, whose hands are usually smaller and less muscular. Our human hands are not particularly meaty in the first place. They are downright bony. Bumpy, callused hands are not just painful, they can also be embarrassing. Many men and women want to keep their hands smooth without foregoing the benefits of exercise. More advanced trainees, on the other hand, dislike using gloves because they can be bulky, uncomfortable, hot and sweaty and smelly, not to mention detrimental to dexterity.
What to Look for
Men's and women's gloves are designed very differently to accommodate the wearer. The quality, durability and flexibility of the glove are major concerns. Comfort, fit and sizing are other important factors. Weightlifting gloves should be breathable, but snug. Many gloves have mesh or spandex for natural bend and movement. Paired with abrasion-resistant leather, spandex provides flexibility where needed. Foam-back fingers provide extra padding to prevent injury. Wash-and-dry gloves can be cleaned in the washer/dryer to prevent the smelly buildup of sweat and grime. A reinforced or hinged thumb can help to insure proper dexterity. Seamless palm surfaces help with grip and comfort. Some are even made of gel foam to mold to your hand. Others have absorbent material inside to prevent excess moisture. Leather wrist wraps are a feature that stabilizes the wrist joint to keep it in a proper position while training. With various professional and amateur models, weightlifting gloves can vary in price from less than $20 to nearly $50. Wraps, straps that loop around the bar, are popular for increasing grip, but do not protect the hands as well as weightlifting gloves. Neoprene grips, however, can make a good alternative if gloves are too cumbersome.
Common Pitfalls
It is important to purchase weightlifting gloves based on your personal preference and level of training. There is no need to spend $50 on gloves that you will use next to never. On the other hand, if you are an avid trainer, take the time and effort to ensure that wearing the gloves will not become as much a nuisance as not wearing them is. In my training experience, I prefer lifting with wraps or straps rather than gloves. Always make sure to buy gloves that fit appropriately and allow optimal dexterity and support during training.
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