The Best Workout Gloves

Working out and doing heavy weightlifting causes wear and tear of the hands. Hands can become callused, blistered or chaffed due to the application of intense pressure or sweaty skin. Workout gloves are an effective solution to protecting your hands from becoming damaged during workouts. Selecting workout gloves boils down to personal preference and the type of activity being performed with the gloves.

  1. Breathable Fabric

    • When selecting workout gloves pay attention to the fabric and its breathability. Most workout gloves are available in neoprene or leather. However, according to a May 2009 publication by FAPORT International, neoprene is the most reliable material in terms of allowing the hands to breathe. Inability for the hands to breathe causes the palms to sweat, which can become irritating to the skin and produce a foul odor.

    Gripping

    • The best gloves have gripping textures built into the fingers and palms. Gripping assistance let bodybuilders hold onto weights, or other objects, more securely. This is essential because a better grip decreases the chance of weights slipping out of one's hands. Without a proper grip, bodybuilders cannot sustain proper form during workout routines.

    Wrist Support

    • Bodybuilders' wrists must be adequately supported so that they do not become injured when doing heavy lifting. According to Bodybuilding Tips Guide, wrist injuries, such as stress injuries, can occur from overusing the wrist, causing tears in the wrist's ligaments. Some types of workout gloves offer wrist protection, which include wraps that bind the wrist, keeping it stationary during exercises. For boxing workouts, sparring gloves and bag gloves provide additional padding to keep fingers and knuckles safe, as well as wrist support.

    Size

    • Workout gloves lose their effectiveness if they are not properly sized. Wearing gloves that are too large the material will slide around, thereby not providing an adequate grip. Gloves that are too small do not allow for mobility and prevent the individual from making a fist. Consequently, gloves should be tried on before being purchased to ensure appropriate sizing.