Gloves Care
Gloves Care
Goalkeeper Glove Care: Essential Tips for Optimal PerformanceTaking proper care of your goalkeeper gloves is essential for maintaining their grip, performance, and overall lifespan. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure your gloves are always match-ready:
Pre-Game Preparation:
- Pick the right gloves @Vos: They offer a brilliant range of match and training gloves.
- Training gloves: Having a separate pair of training gloves helps preserve your match gloves by minimising wear and tear during practice sessions.
- Initial rinse: New gloves often have a protective coating. Give them a quick rinse with cool water and let them air dry completely before using them.Vos WebsiteÂ
During the Game:
- Master the Dive: Proper diving technique minimizes the impact on your palms. Learn to land with your forearms absorbing the force, not just your hands.
- Fist, not Palms: When getting up after a save, use your fists to push yourself off the ground. This avoids unnecessary wear and tear on the palm latex.
- Dampen for Grip: Before the game and during breaks, dampen the palms of your gloves slightly with water. This enhances grip and overall glove performance.
Post-Game Care:
- Rinse Promptly: After every use, rinse your gloves in lukewarm water (not hot) as soon as possible. This removes dirt, sweat, and salt buildup that can damage the latex.
- Gently Clean: While rinsing, gently remove any stubborn dirt with your fingers. Avoid using harsh soaps or detergents, as they can break down the latex.
- Air Dry Only: Never use artificial heat sources like dryers or radiators to dry your gloves. Hang them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Ideally, stuff the gloves with paper towels to absorb moisture and maintain their shape.
Extending Glove Life:
- Rotate Two Pairs: Owning two pairs of gloves allows for proper drying time between uses. This prevents the latex from stiffening and cracking.
- Store Correctly: When not in use, store your gloves in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out the latex. Keep them flat or slightly cupped for optimal shape retention.
- Specialist Products (Optional): For stubborn stains or odors, consider using specialist goalkeeper glove cleaning products. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.
Bonus Tip: Invest in a goalkeeper glove bag to keep your gloves organized, protected, and easily accessible.By following these essential glove care tips, you can ensure your goalkeeper gloves perform at their best for longer, giving you the confidence and control you need to excel on the pitch.
