Golf Glove Sizing: Cadet vs Regular (Complete Fitting Guide)

One of the most misunderstood aspects of golf equipment is golf glove sizing. Many golfers wear gloves that don’t fit like a second skin—and most have never even heard of Cadet sizes. A poor fit can affect grip, comfort, and ultimately your performance on the course.

In this guide, we’ll explain the differences between Cadet and Regular golf gloves, how to measure your hand, and how to choose the perfect fit for maximum comfort and control.

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What Does Cadet vs Regular Mean in Golf Gloves?

The terms “Cadet” and “Regular” don’t refer to overall hand size, but to hand proportions:

  • Regular Size: Best for hands with proportionally longer fingers and narrower palms.
  • Cadet Size: Best for hands with shorter fingers and proportionally wider palms.

Understanding this distinction is critical. The wrong glove can cause bunching, slipping, or unnecessary grip pressure, while the right one feels like a natural extension of your hand.

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Key Differences Between Cadet and Regular Golf Gloves

Regular Golf Glove

  • Designed for longer fingers relative to palm width
  • Standard finger-to-palm proportions
  • Most common sizing available

Cadet Golf Glove

  • Designed for shorter fingers and wider palms
  • Palm width is consistently about 0.25" wider than Regular
  • Finger length is consistently about 0.25" shorter than Regular
  • Often overlooked but critical for certain hand shapes

Key takeaway: Choose based on hand shape, not overall hand size.

Golf Glove Size Chart: Cadet vs Regular
Size
Small
Medium
Large
X-Large
Regular Palm Width
3.25"–3.5"
3.5"–3.75"
3.75"–4.0"
4.0"–4.25"
Regular Finger Length
2.75"–3.0"
3.0"–3.25"
3.25"–3.5"
3.5"–3.75"
Cadet Palm Width
3.5"–3.75"
3.75"–4.0"
4.0"–4.25"
4.25"–4.5"
Cadet Finger Length
2.5"–2.75"
2.75"–3.0"
3.0"–3.25"
3.25"–3.5"
Difference
+0.25" wider
+0.25" wider
+0.25" wider
+0.25" wider
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1

Step 1: Measure Your Hand

  • Palm circumference: Measure around the widest part of your palm (excluding thumb).
  • Finger length: Measure from the base of your middle finger to the tip.
  • Compare the ratio of palm width to finger length.
2

Step 2: Identify Fit Issues

  • Look for signs like bunching, tightness, or sliding.
3

Step 3: Test Both Options

  • Try on the same size in Regular and Cadet.
  • Make a fist, hold a club, and take a few swings.
  • Choose the glove that feels most natural and secure.

Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming Cadet means “small” — it’s about proportions, not hand size
  • Buying online without testing both styles
  • Ignoring brand variations (FootJoy, Titleist, Callaway all fit slightly differently)
  • Choosing based on looks instead of performance
  • Settling for “close enough” when proper fit makes a big difference

Performance Benefits of Proper Golf Glove Sizing

  • Better grip consistency – no slipping or over-gripping
  • Improved comfort – feels like a second skin
  • Reduced fatigue – less hand tension throughout the round
  • Fewer blisters & calluses – prevents friction points
  • Longer glove life – even wear patterns extend durability
  • More confident swings – reliable fit equals reliable performance

The Bottom Line: Cadet vs Regular Golf Gloves

A properly fitted golf glove is an extension of your hand. The choice between Cadet and Regular isn’t about hand size—it’s about proportions.

Most golfers have never tried both options, which means they’ve never experienced the difference a true fit can make. Don’t settle for “close enough.” Take the time to test both styles and choose the one that matches your hand shape.

Your grip, confidence, and scores will all improve when your glove fits exactly as it should.

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