Wet Weather Goalkeeping Tips

Rain doesn’t care if you’re ready. The whistle blows either way.

And if your gloves aren’t prepped for wet weather — expect slippery palms, bad handling, and excuses no one wants to hear.

Here’s how to show up when the pitch is soaked and the shots don’t stop..

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The truth about grip in the rain

Latex changes in the wet.

Some get better. Some get worse.

But even with the best gloves in the world, rain will affect how the ball reacts.

Here’s the mistake most keepers make:
They show up with bone-dry gloves and expect them to perform in a storm.

That’s not how it works.

Top wet weather tips

A glove that’s too big means your child can’t feel the ball — they’ll struggle to catch, and they’ll feel like the glove is getting in the way.

Too small, and they’ll be uncomfortable or split at the seams during play.

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  1. Always dampen your gloves before kick-off
    2. Yes — even if it’s already raining.
    Dry latex in wet conditions loses grip fast.
    Dampen the palms with clean water before you even leave the changing room. This primes the latex and reduces slipping.
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  2. Rinse them at halftime
    3. Gloves collect dirt, mud, and waterlogged pitch grime.
Give them a quick rinse or towel wipe at the break to refresh the grip.
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  3. Use a glove towel — properly
    4. Our glove towel isn’t just for show. Use it on the backhand or wrist area to remove excess water. Don’t rub the palms — you’ll damage the latex. Pat, press, reset.
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  4. Don’t wear soaking wet gloves from warm-up
    5. If your warm-up gloves are drenched, change them before the match. Grip changes once latex is saturated. Start the match with a dry, prepped pair if possible.
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  5. Focus on handling, not flair
    6. Rainy games are about control, not showboating. Catch when you can. Parry when you have to. Do the basics. Wet weather punishes bad decisions.
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Bonus: Wet weather prep checklist

  • Dampen palms before play
  • Pack a glove towel
  • Rinse at halftime if needed
  • Always bring a second pair
  • Play smart — not flashy

FAQs

Should goalkeeper gloves be wet or dry in the rain?

Slightly damp — always. Dry latex in rain loses grip fast. Dampen them with clean water before kick-off and maintain throughout.

Can I use my regular gloves in wet weather?

Yes — but you’ll need to prep them properly. And if you're playing in constant rain, expect the grip to change as the latex becomes saturated. That's why we recommend a backup pair.

What’s the best latex for rain?

Softer latex (like our 4mm Pro Contact) performs well when prepped. But like all latex, it needs to be dampened and cared for to hold up in the wet.

Do I need a glove towel?

If you’re playing in wet conditions — yes. It helps remove excess water from your gloves (especially the backhand and wrists) without damaging the latex.

Can rain damage goalkeeper gloves?

No — but bad habits can. Rubbing palms dry with rough towels, using heat to dry gloves afterward, or storing them wet in your bag will wreck them. Handle with care.