It makes perfect sense in hockey to wear a protective hockey glove. Seasoned hockey players are more than likely during their career to suffer a hand injury whether minor or major. However not all field players chose to wear one. Often their reason is that field hockey gloves are cumbersome which limits hand movement on the stick or the hand loses its feel on the hockey stick.
Earlier manufactured hockey gloves were indeed cumbersome but this is no longer the case with the introduction of modern day lightweight synthetic materials that provide breathability, and close anatomical wearing. Lightweight injected moulded strong plastics which are sewn into the synthetic material are used to absorb high impacts received from either the ball or stick. The palm of the gloves either palm less or come with a textured fabric to aid stick gripping. Wearing a glove also has the benefit of helping to absorb stick vibration when hitting and as an aid for those extremely cold days.
When selecting a glove you should consider
- Flexibility or the ability of the glove when worn to anatomically stretch with hand movements
- All the necessary parts of the hands are covered for protection, i.e., knuckles and the small bones of the back of the hand
- Weight of the glove
- Palm grip
- Whether you prefer a full glove or ¾ glove where the fingers are exposed
- Sizing The glove needs to be s ‘snug fit’ ensuring the protective plastics cover the designated body parts, e.g., knuckles
Go Hockey News has reviewed the following popular player gloves. They all contained the essential features of a quality glove and any decision made as to which one we would recommend that the decision be left to buyer preference.
The Mazon T90 Glove has an improved design for 2016. With an improved velcro strapping system, A full-stretch lycra left hand glove with textured palm consists of injection moulded plastics exactly where you need protection and padding. The design of the outer glove allows for a custom fit due to its superior stretch flexibility, provide natural grip in all conditions. Comfortable to wear, secure and safe fit.
The Mazon T90 Right Hand is perfect for players looking to protect their right hand but also be flexible! It has full stretch lycra, injection moulded plastics and padded inside. Allows for a custom fit due to its superior stretch flexibility. Textured palm on provides great grip in all conditions. (Grey only)
With the unique Gryphon design, this lightweight mobile glove gives you maximum comfort and protection. The open palm allows you to have more contact with your stick handle and is unnoticeable during play. The protective inserts are moulded to fit around your hand and are broken by a dense foam under layer to give your hand added safety. Aside from the back of the palm being well covered, each finger also has a small hard barrier. Secured with an adjustable wristband, you won’t notice this glove until you’ve taken a hit and played on. There’s a reason all the best players around the world use this glove.
The Gryphon G-Mitt G3 Glove is a hockey player’s favourite. It is a lightweight mobile glove gives you maximum comfort and protection. The open palm allows you to have more contact with your stick handle and is unnoticeable during play. The protective inserts are moulded to fit around your hand and are broken by a dense foam under layer to give your hand added safety. Secured with an adjustable wristband. Available in Black, Cyan and Pink
The V99 Glove is an outstanding protection accessory. Plates to protect knuckles and fingers yet still flexible materials. Fantastic fit and quality materials.
These gloves can found at FHE stores, Just Hockey stores , and Go Hockey New Zealand stores
