Specialist positions and specialist players also need specialist equipment - here's how to clean and maintain goalkeeper gloves to make sure your shot-stopper is always at the top of their game.

How to clean goalkeeper gloves

For the best results, try to wash your goalkeeper gloves as soon as possible after use.

Hand wash them in warm water, that’s no hotter than 30°C – never machine wash goalie gloves.

Always use your hands or a soft cloth to wash them - never use any abrasive scourer or harsh cleaning fluid.

Always leave them to dry naturally and never any of the following:

on a radiator
in front of a fire
in a tumble dryer
using a hair dryer
using an iron
using an airing cupboard
in direct sunlight
by "wringing" them out

All of the above can cause the gloves to lose natural moisture turning them dry and brittle.

How to maintain the latex palms on goalkeeper gloves

You might notice some scuffing and wear on the palms and fingers of your goalkeeper gloves, this is simple wear-and-tear of the latex.

You might even notice these signs of wear after the gloves’ first outing, but it’s perfectly normal - wear to the foams usually happens when the gloves come into contact with the ground, but they can also wear from something as simple as pulling your socks up, even when putting your gloves on as most gloves use a course Velcro closure which can be prone to wearing the latex.

The best way to keep the latex in the best possible position is to follow the washing instructions above after every use. You might also want to consider using a goalkeeper glove wash fluid.

How to improve the grip of your goalkeeper gloves

To get the maximum grip and life from your goalkeeper gloves you should take the following steps:

Before using your new gloves for the first time pre-wash them and dry naturally in accordance with the washing instructions above. This will ensure you get the maximum grip when in use.

Before use - damp the palms of the gloves with water in order to get the best possible grip and durability from the latex palm.
After use - before doing anything ensure you wash them and leave to dry naturally - leaving latex to dry out will make it brittle, affecting durability and grip.