Cadet vs Regular Golf Glove: Key Differences Explained
Golf gloves are a part of every golfer’s equipment to help with grip and control during the swing.
However, choosing the right size and style of golf glove can be confusing, especially when terms like “cadet” and “regular” come into play.
In this article, we’ll go through the difference between cadet and regular golf gloves, how to determine the right size, what pros use, and what cadet XL means.
What’s the difference between a regular and a cadet?
The main difference between cadet and regular golf gloves is the fit.
A regular golf glove is for the average hand shape, a cadet golf glove is for golfers with shorter fingers and wider palms.
Regular golf gloves have a uniform fit for standard hand proportions. The fingers are longer and the glove is slimmer around the palm.
Golfers with average sized fingers and palms will find regulars more comfortable. They create that “second skin” feeling, a snug fit that allows for great control and grip.
On the other hand, cadet golf gloves are for golfers who have shorter fingers but wider palms.
The cadet glove has slightly shorter finger lengths, so if you find regulars too tight in the palm or too long in the fingers, the cadet is the way to go.
Cadet gloves give more control and comfort to these golfers.
In my experience, the difference in fit between cadet vs regular golf gloves can make a big difference in performance – especially if you need a glove that fits right to give you grip without sacrificing comfort.
What size golf glove should I get?
Choosing the right golf glove size is key to comfort and performance.
To determine your glove size, measure the circumference of your hand around the knuckles, excluding the thumb.
Then, measure the length from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your palm.
Cadet-size gloves best fit golfers with shorter fingers and wider palms. These gloves accommodate a wider palm without the extra length in the fingers, so you get a snug fit for great grip.
Regular golf gloves in standard men’s sizes will work for you if you have average hand proportions. But if you find regulars don’t fit your palm well or have extra space in the fingers, you may want to try cadet sizes.
For me, I tried on different brands of golf gloves and paid attention to how they fit across the palm and fingers and that’s how I found my glove. It’s got to fit tight but not too tight.
A glove that’s too loose won’t give you the grip you need. A glove that’s too tight will make it uncomfortable to play a round.
What do PGA pros wear?
PGA pros prefer leather gloves for their grip and feel. Leather gloves give the hand a soft, comfortable fit and mold over time to give that “second skin” feeling.
The thin leather material gives more feedback from the club during the swing, which is why many pros prefer them. They wear gloves that fit perfectly so there’s no excess material bunching up.
Most pros wear regular size gloves as they have average sized hands that fit regulars perfectly. But pros with wider palms and shorter fingers might wear cadet gloves for a better fit.
I see why leather gloves are preferred. They feel great and grip well, especially during rounds when you need more control of the club.
But leather gloves need care and wear out faster than synthetic so I recommend having a backup pair.
What does cadet XL mean?
Cadet XL means a larger cadet glove size, for golfers with wider palms and shorter fingers who need an extra large glove.
In this case, “cadet” means the shorter finger length and wider palm, and “XL” means the overall size of the glove.
Golfers who need cadet size but have larger hands will need a cadet XL glove for the perfect fit.
Cadet golf gloves come in different sizes, from small to XL, just like regular gloves.
The difference is in the finger length and palm width so a cadet XL glove will have shorter fingers but more room in the palm compared to a regular XL glove.
I’ve tried different glove sizes, and I can’t stress enough how important a properly fitting glove is. A poorly fitted glove—too tight or loose—can affect grip and performance.
If your glove size doesn’t match your hand shape, whether in cadet or regular size, you’ll lose control during critical moments on the course.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the difference between cadet vs regular golf gloves is key to getting the right fit and maximizing your performance on the course.
Regular golf gloves are for golfers with average finger length and palm width, cadet gloves are for golfers with shorter fingers and wider palms.
Choosing the right glove size—cadet or regular—will get your glove to fit and give you more grip throughout the round.
Golfers often overlook the importance of glove fit, but a golf glove that feels like a second skin can make a big difference.
Whether you choose leather gloves for the premium feel or cadet size gloves for a better fit, get the right glove for your hand shape and size.
Must read: How to Clean Golf Gloves the Right Way