The Best Ways to Dry Golf Gloves: Preserving Shape and Grip

The Best Ways to Dry Golf Gloves: Preserving Shape and Grip

A high-quality golf glove is essential to your game, providing the grip, comfort, and control needed for consistent swings. However, improper drying and storage can cause your glove to stiffen, crack, or lose shape. If you've ever wondered how to dry golf gloves or how to keep golf gloves from getting crusty, you're not alone.

Many golfers make the mistake of tossing their gloves into their bag after a round, only to find them stiff and unusable the next time they play. In this guide, we’ll cover the best golf glove storage tips, the proper drying techniques, and how to care for leather golf gloves to maximize lifespan and performance.

Why Proper Drying Matters for Golf Gloves

Golf gloves, especially those made of Cabretta leather, are sensitive to moisture. Sweat, rain, and humidity can break down the material, leading to:

• Stiffness and cracking – A damp glove will dry out unevenly, becoming crusty and brittle.

• Loss of grip – Excess moisture can ruin the tackiness of the glove, reducing control over the club.

• Odours – Sweat and dirt trapped in a damp glove create the perfect environment for bacteria buildup.

Learning how to dry golf gloves properly will keep them soft, flexible, and ready for every round.

How to Properly Dry a Golf Glove

Step 1: Remove the Glove Immediately After Your Round

After finishing your round, take your glove off as soon as possible. Leaving it on while damp from sweat will cause it to stretch and lose shape.

Step 2: Gently Wipe Off Excess Moisture

Use a dry towel to gently pat the glove, absorbing as much moisture as possible. Avoid wringing it out, as this can distort the material.

Step 3: Air Dry in a Well-Ventilated Area

Lay the glove flat on a towel or hang it over a glove holder in a dry, well-ventilated space. Never place it in direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause leather gloves to crack.

Step 4: Dry the Glove on Your Hand (Optional for Leather Gloves)

Put the glove back on your hand for Cabretta leather golf gloves for a minute or two while it begins drying. This helps it maintain its shape and prevents shrinking.

What NOT to Do When Drying Golf Gloves

• Don’t leave your glove in your golf bag – Storing a damp glove creates the perfect conditions for mildew and odour buildup.

• Never use a hairdryer or heater – High heat will dry out the leather, causing it to become brittle and lose flexibility.

• Avoid crumpling the glove – Laying it flat or using a glove holder helps maintain its original shape.

Don’t store a wet glove with other golf gear –keeping a damp glove near other equipment can transfer moisture, leading to mould and mildew.

Best Golf Glove Storage Tips

Proper storage is just as necessary as proper drying. If you want to avoid wondering where to put golf gloves in your bag, follow these storage tips:

1. Use a Golf Glove Holder

A golf glove storage case or holder helps gloves maintain their shape and keeps them from getting crushed in your bag.

2. Store Gloves in a Ziplock Bag 

Place your glove in one of our resealable glove pouches for extra protection. This will help keep the glove fresh and prevent it from getting stiff.

3. Rotate Between Multiple Gloves

If you play frequently, rotate at least two or three gloves. This allows each glove to fully dry between rounds, extending its lifespan.

4. Keep Gloves Away from Humidity

If you live in a humid climate, store your gloves in a cool, dry place rather than leaving them in your bag overnight.

How to Soften a Golf Glove That Has Hardened

If your glove has already stiffened, don’t throw it away. Here’s how to soften a golf glove and restore its flexibility:

• Dampen it slightly – Use a damp cloth to moisten the glove, but don’t soak it.

• Wear it and flex your fingers – Put the glove on and move your fingers around to help loosen the material.

• Apply a small amount of leather conditioner – For leather gloves, a tiny bit of leather conditioner can help restore softness.

• Let it dry naturally – After softening, let the glove air dry completely before storing it.

How to Care for Leather Golf Gloves

Leather gloves require extra care to maintain their performance and longevity. Follow these steps to extend the life of your Cabretta leather golf gloves:

• Avoid overuse – Rotate between multiple gloves to prevent excessive wear.

• Wash gently – Hand-wash with mild soap and cold water when needed (never use hot water).

• Dry properly – Follow the air-drying steps outlined above.

• Store in a cool, dry place – Humidity can cause leather gloves to break down faster.

These steps will ensure your gloves stay soft, durable, and comfortable for many rounds.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Golf Gloves in Top Shape

A well-maintained golf glove provides better grip, comfort, and longevity. Following proper drying and storage techniques, you can prevent stiffness, odour, and damage, keeping your gloves in excellent condition.

Key Takeaways:

• Remove your glove immediately after play and dry it properly.

• Avoid heat and direct sunlight to prevent cracking.

• Use a glove holder or a resealable bag with a silica gel pack to store your gloves properly.

• Rotate between multiple gloves to extend their lifespan.

With the proper care, your golf gloves will last longer, feel better, and help you play your best round every time.

Learn More,

How Long Do Golf Gloves Last? Tips to Extend Their Lifespan
Leather vs. Synthetic Golf Gloves: Which One is Best for You?
Premium Golf Gloves: Are They Worth the Price?
Women's Golf Gloves: Style Meets Functionality
Essential Tips for Cleaning Your Golf Gloves

FAQ: Golf Glove Care & Drying

How do I keep my golf gloves in good shape?

• Always air dry after use.

• Store in a dry place, ideally in a glove holder or resealable bag.

• Rotate between multiple gloves to avoid overuse.

• Avoid excessive stretching or crumpling.

How do you dry golf gloves?

• Air dry in a well-ventilated area (never use direct sunlight or heaters).

• Lay flat or use a glove holder to maintain shape.

• Leather gloves should be worn briefly while drying to prevent shrinking.

How do you keep a golf glove from getting crusty?

• Never leave a wet glove in your golf bag—always let it air dry.

• Wash occasionally to remove sweat and dirt buildup.

• Store in a cool, dry place with a silica gel pack to absorb moisture.

How to best preserve a golf glove?

• Rotate between multiple gloves to prevent overuse.

• Use a glove holder to maintain shape.

• Wash and dry properly—no machine washing for leather gloves!

By following these best golf glove storage and drying techniques, you’ll enjoy a longer-lasting, better-performing glove that keeps you at the top of your game!