← Journal

How long a golf glove lasts — and what shortens its life

20 August 2026

A golf glove wears through in the end — but poor care shortens its life far sooner. Lifespan is decided by what happens after the round: take it off, straighten the fingers and let it dry at room temperature, out of direct light. Never dry a glove on a radiator, in a sun-baked car or in a washing machine — heat and detergents harden the leather permanently.

What shortens its life fastest

  • A damp glove left crumpled in a bag pocket.
  • Drying on a radiator, on the dashboard or in direct sun.
  • Washing machines, soap and leather-conditioning products.
  • A size too large: loose leather abrades itself faster.

After the round

  • Remove the glove by pulling from the fingertips, not the wrist.
  • Straighten the fingers and smooth out the leather before it dries.
  • Let it dry at room temperature, loose — not in the bag or a plastic bag.

Storage

Store the glove flat and dry. A glove crumpled into a bag pocket dries into the wrong shape and loses its fit faster than it would through actual use.

If you play often, you can rotate two gloves. A day to dry out extends the life of both noticeably — though this problem is far smaller with Poro 01 gloves than with cabretta gloves.

Cleaning

Surface dirt comes off with a lightly dampened cloth. Wipe gently, don't scrub, and let it air dry. Avoid soaps, solvents and leather-conditioning products — they change the surface feel and can reduce grip.

About the natural material

Reindeer leather can show small scars and variations in tone. These aren't flaws but signs of the material's origin. With use, the leather darkens slightly and moulds to the shape of your hand.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a golf glove last?
It depends on the material and care. A cabretta glove often feels loose within a few rounds, while reindeer leather holds its shape longer. Correct drying and storage extend the life noticeably.
Can you machine wash a golf glove?
No. Detergent and heat harden the leather permanently. Wipe surface dirt with a lightly dampened cloth and let the glove dry at room temperature.