Golf is a game of feel, but when your hands hurt, that feel turns into pain. If you have arthritis, carpal tunnel, or general joint pain, holding a club for eighteen holes can seem impossible. I know this struggle well. That is why I set out to find a real solution. I tested several compression gloves to see which ones truly help a golfer play with less pain and more control.
This is not just a list of products. This is a report from my own tests. I wore these gloves for many rounds of golf and many hours on the driving range. My goal was simple: to find which glove gives the best relief without hurting your game. I looked at pain relief, grip, comfort, and durability.
After all my testing, one glove stood out from the rest. The IMAK Compression Arthritis Glove proved to be the best overall choice for most golfers. It offers the right balance of gentle compression and comfort, allowing you to swing freely while your hands feel supported. But the best glove for you depends on your specific needs. In this guide, I will walk you through my tests on all the top gloves so you can decide for yourself.
How I Tested the Gloves for Real Golf Use
I believe a good review must be fair and clear. You need to know how I reached my conclusions. I did not just wear these gloves for a few minutes. I used a strict method to test each one under the same conditions. This way, I can compare them fairly.
My Step-by-Step Testing Method
I focused on four key areas that matter most to a golfer with hand pain.
- Pain Relief and Comfort: This was the most important test. I wore each glove for full eighteen-hole rounds. I also wore them during practice sessions. Before, during, and after, I wrote down my pain levels on a scale of one to ten. I noted if the glove caused any new pain or rubbed my skin the wrong way.
- Grip and Control: A glove is useless if it makes you lose hold of the club. I tested each glove with my driver, irons, and wedges. I paid close attention to how secure the grip felt during a full swing. I also checked if I could still feel the club and do small tasks like placing a ball on a tee.
- Breathability and Durability: Golf is played in the sun. A hot, sweaty glove is uncomfortable. I tested these gloves on warm days to see which ones kept my hands cool. For durability, I followed the washing instructions carefully after several uses. I looked for signs of wear, like loose threads or fabric that lost its shape.
- Therapeutic Support: I evaluated the level of compression. Was it a gentle hug or a tight squeeze? Did it feel like it was improving blood flow? I compared how my hands felt after wearing each glove for a long time.
Here is a table that sums up my testing plan:
| What I Tested | How I Did It | What I Looked For |
| Pain Relief | Worn for full rounds and practice. | Change in pain level, overall comfort, any irritation. |
| Grip Performance | Swinging all types of clubs. Handling tees and balls. | Security of the grip, control of the club, finger freedom. |
| Durability | Repeated wear and proper washing. | Material pilling, seam strength, shape after washing. |
| Therapeutic Value | Long-term wear during activity. | Sense of improved blood flow, reduction in swelling, support. |
Top Gloves Compared
Before we get into the deep details, here is a simple table to give you a fast overview of how the gloves stack up against each other. This is based on all my testing.
| Product Name | Best For This Type of Golfer | Main Strength | Main Weakness | My Rating |
| IMAK Compression Glove | Golfers who want all-day pain relief and comfort. | Excellent pain reduction, very breathable, well-made. | The palm is not designed for golf grip. | 9.5 / 10 |
| ITHW Copper Glove | Golfers who want strong support and a non-slip grip. | Firm compression, great anti-slip palm, smart design. | Can be less breathable and too tight for some. | 9.0 / 10 |
| Zexhoor Arthritis Gloves | Golfers on a tight budget who need basic support. | Very low price, comes in a two-pack, decent comfort. | Offers less compression, not as durable. | 8.0 / 10 |
| Dr. Arthritis Glove | Golfers with mild pain who want a soft, comfortable fit. | Very soft material, good for mild support, good value. | Provides the mildest compression. | 8.0 / 10 |
IMAK Compression Arthritis Glove
This glove is my top pick. Let me explain why it scored so high in my tests.
Overall First Thoughts: Why It Won
The IMAK glove is not sold as a golf glove. It is sold as a medical device to help with hand pain. And that is exactly why it works so well on the golf course. It focuses on what matters most: reducing your pain. The compression is gentle but constant. It feels like a supportive hug for your hand joints. After testing, I found it allowed me to play longer with significantly less stiffness and aching. While it does not have a sticky golf grip on the palm, the trade-off for superior pain relief is worth it for most golfers.
The Good and The Bad
- What I Liked: Great pain relief, made from soft and breathable cotton, very durable seams, comfortable for all eighteen holes.
- What Could Be Better: The palm is simple fabric, not a grippy material, so it doesn’t add extra hold on the club. It must be washed by hand.
How It Feels and How It Is Made?
The IMAK glove is made from a blend of 92% cotton and 8% spandex. This mix is important. The cotton makes it soft and breathable. It feels like a comfortable piece of clothing on your hand. The spandex gives it that gentle stretch and compression. My hands never felt hot or sweaty while wearing it, even on a sunny day.
The fingerless design is perfect for golf. It gives you the support over your knuckles and palms where you need it, but your fingertips are free. This means you can still feel the club in your fingers, which is crucial for a good swing. You can also easily handle tees, balls, and your phone without taking the glove off. The pull-on design is simple and gives a snug fit.
How It Performed on the Golf Course
This is where the IMAK glove really shined.
Pain Relief Results:
I tested my pain level before and after wearing the glove. Without a glove, my pain level after a round was often a 6 or 7 out of 10. With the IMAK glove, that pain level dropped to a 3 or 4. This was the biggest improvement I saw with any glove. The mild compression seems to work by supporting the joints and improving blood flow throughout the round.
Grip and Control Analysis:
The palm of the IMAK glove is made of the same cotton-spandex material as the rest of the glove. It does not have any special sticky dots or surfaces. So, how does it work for golf? The answer is better than you might think. The compression itself helps you grip the club. When your hand hurts, you often grip the club too tightly. This tension causes more pain and a worse swing. The IMAK glove reduces the pain, which helps you relax your grip. A relaxed grip is a better grip. I never felt the club slip during my swing. However, if you play in very wet or rainy conditions, this glove will not add any extra slip protection like a specialized golf glove would.
Who Is This Glove Perfect For?
The IMAK Compression Glove is the best choice for the golfer whose main problem is pain. If arthritis or stiffness is stopping you from playing your best, this glove will help. It is ideal for someone who wants comfortable, all-day support that you can almost forget you are wearing. It is made in the USA or imported, and the quality feels high.
Is the IMAK Glove a Good Value for the Money?
The IMAK glove is not the cheapest option on our list. However, based on its build quality and the level of pain relief it provides, I believe it offers very good value. You are paying for a well-made, therapeutic device that can genuinely improve your time on the course. If it allows you to play more golf with less pain, then the cost is easily justified.
#1 ITHW Copper Compression Glove
The ITHW glove was the biggest surprise in my test. It feels very different from the IMAK glove and has some unique features that some golfers will love.
First Impressions: Modern and Supportive
The first thing you notice is the material. It is made with 82% copper fiber, 14% spandex, and 4% silicon. This gives it a slicker, more technical feel than the cotton IMAK glove. The second thing you notice is the design. It only covers three fingers—your pinky and ring finger are together in one compartment, and your middle and index fingers have their own. Your thumb is also covered. This “three-finger” design is meant to offer a balance of compression and freedom.
The Good and The Bad
- What I Liked: Provides strong compression, the palm has anti-slip silicone dots for a great grip, the design allows for good finger movement.
- What Could Be Better: The material is less breathable, so your hand can get warmer. The strong compression might feel too tight for some people.
Design and Comfort: A Tech-Focused Feel
The ITHW glove is clearly engineered for activity. The copper-infused fabric is smooth and tight. The company claims the copper offers natural pain relief, but my testing focused on the physical compression, which is very noticeable. This glove feels tighter and more supportive than the IMAK right away.
The most clever feature is the anti-slip adhesive on the palm. It has small silicone dots that grip the club handle incredibly well. This is a major advantage for grip security. The three-finger design is also smart. It gives you more compression than a fully fingerless glove, but more freedom than a full-finger glove. It works very well for using a touchscreen phone.
Performance on the Course: Strong Support and Superb Grip
Pain Relief Results:
The compression on the ITHW glove is firm. For me, it provided a different kind of relief than the IMAK. It felt more like a supportive brace. It was excellent at reducing the ache from conditions like tendonitis. My pain levels also dropped significantly, similar to the IMAK, but the sensation was different. If you like a feeling of strong support, you will prefer this.
Grip Performance: The Best in Test:
There is no contest here. The ITHW glove has the best grip of any glove I tested. The silicone dots on the palm lock onto the golf grip. Even with sweaty hands or a light rain, the club felt secure in my hands. This is a huge benefit for golfers who worry about the club slipping. The reinforced stitching also held up perfectly, showing no signs of wear after many swings.
Who Should Choose the ITHW Glove?
This glove is perfect for the golfer who wants two things: maximum support and the best possible grip. If you have significant pain and feel like you need a firmer support for your joints, the ITHW is a great choice. It is also the best pick if you play in humid conditions or simply want the extra security of the anti-slip palm.
Value Analysis: Is the Strong Compression Worth It?
The ITHW glove is priced competitively. You are paying for the copper-infused fabric, the advanced design, and the anti-slip technology. If the firm compression feels good on your hands, then this glove is an excellent value. It is like getting a therapeutic brace and a high-grip golf accessory in one product.
#2 Zexhoor Arthritis Gloves (2-Pair Pack)
Moving down our list, we come to an option that focuses on value above all else. The Zexhoor gloves are sold in a two-pack for a very low price. This makes them an attractive entry point for golfers who are new to compression wear and do not want to spend a lot of money.
First Impressions: Basic but Practical
When you buy the Zexhoor pack, you get two identical pairs of fingerless gloves. This is a practical advantage because you can wear one pair while the other is being washed. The material is soft and designed for moisture-wicking, which means it pulls sweat away from your skin. The overall feel is lighter and less substantial than the IMAK or ITHW gloves.
The Good and The Bad
- What I Liked: Extremely affordable, comes with two pairs, soft and breathable material, available in multiple sizes for a good fit.
- What Could Be Better: The compression is much lighter and less supportive. The quality is not as high, so they may not last as long.
Design and Feel: Lightweight Comfort
The Zexhoor gloves are all about simple comfort. They do not have the medical-grade feel of the IMAK or the technical feel of the ITHW. They are made from a blend of nylon and spandex, which makes them stretchy and light. The fingerless design is standard, and the thumb is designed to allow for a good range of motion.
During my tests, these gloves were the most comfortable to put on initially because they are so light. However, that lightness comes from providing less compression. They feel more like a thin, supportive sleeve than a therapeutic glove.
Performance on the Course: Mild Support for Mild Pain
Pain Relief Results:
The compression provided by the Zexhoor gloves is gentle. For golfers with very mild stiffness or those who are just starting to feel pain, this might be enough. In my pain level tests, these gloves provided a small amount of relief, reducing my post-round pain from a 6 to maybe a 5. It was a noticeable difference, but not nearly as significant as with the IMAK or ITHW gloves. They are best for managing minor discomfort rather than treating significant arthritis pain.
Grip and Durability Notes:
The grip is similar to the IMAK glove—it’s just the fabric against the club. It worked fine for dry conditions. The main question with these gloves is durability. After several washes (following the care instructions carefully), the material showed some signs of pilling and the elasticity seemed slightly reduced. They are functional, but they may need to be replaced more often than the more expensive options.
Who is the Zexhoor Glove For?
This is the perfect glove for a golfer on a strict budget. If you are curious about whether compression gloves can help you but do not want to make a large investment, the Zexhoor pack is a risk-free way to try them. It is also a good choice for someone with very mild symptoms who only needs a light reminder to keep their hands relaxed.
Value Analysis: The Budget Choice
For the price of a single pair of other gloves, you get two pairs from Zexhoor. From a pure cost perspective, the value is undeniable. You are trading off high-level therapeutic support and long-term durability for a very low upfront cost. For the right person, this is an excellent deal.
#3 Dr. Arthritis Essentials Glove
The final glove in our test is the Dr. Arthritis Essentials model. This glove is developed by medical experts, which gives it a strong reputation before you even put it on.
First Impressions: Soft and Simple
The Dr. Arthritis glove is made from a blend of cotton, nylon, and spandex. The first thing you notice is how soft the inside of the glove feels against your skin. It is very comfortable right away. The design is simple and looks similar to the IMAK glove. The company states its mission is to make self-care accessible, and that focus on value is apparent.
The Good and The Bad
- What I Liked: Very soft and comfortable material, developed with medical input, good price point.
- What Could Be Better: Offers the mildest compression of all the gloves tested. It is best for very early-stage pain.
Design and Comfort: Everyday Wearability
The highlight of this glove is its wearability. The fabric blend is designed for all-day comfort, and it succeeds. It feels less like a medical device and more like a comfortable piece of clothing. The fingerless design works well for golf, allowing full freedom for your fingertips. It is a glove you can forget you are wearing, which is a good thing for comfort during a long round.
Performance on the Course: Comfort for Mild Symptoms
Pain Relief Results:
In my tests, the Dr. Arthritis glove provided a level of relief similar to the Zexhoor gloves. The compression is very mild. It felt more like a warm, comforting hug than a supportive brace. For me, it reduced my post-round pain slightly, but not enough to make a major difference. This glove would be most effective for someone in the early stages of arthritis or for general hand fatigue, rather than for chronic joint pain.
Grip and Overall Use:
The grip is standard fabric-on-rubber. It worked without any problems. The glove is well-made and seems durable. It does not have any special features like the ITHW’s anti-slip palm, but it performs its basic function reliably.
Who is the Dr. Arthritis Glove For?
This glove is ideal for the golfer who wants a very soft, comfortable glove for mild hand stiffness. If your pain is not severe but you want a little extra support, the Dr. Arthritis glove is a comfortable and trustworthy option. It is also a good choice if you have sensitive skin and prefer a very soft inner lining.
Value Analysis: Good Quality for a Fair Price
The Dr. Arthritis glove is priced fairly. You are getting a quality product that is backed by a company with medical expertise. While it does not provide the strong compression some golfers need, it offers good value for its intended audience—those with mild symptoms who prioritize comfort.
Comparisons Best Golf Gloves
Now that we have looked at each glove individually, let’s put them side-by-side to answer some key questions.
IMAK vs. ITHW: Which Offers Better Pain Relief for a Golfer’s Swing?
This is the battle between the two top gloves. They offer different kinds of relief.
- The IMAK Glove provides gentle, consistent compression that improves blood flow. It feels like it soothes the pain from within. It is the best for reducing general arthritis ache and stiffness over a long period.
- The ITHW Glove provides firm, supportive compression that feels more like a brace. It is excellent for stabilizing joints and relieving pain from conditions like tendonitis.
The Winner? For the classic arthritis pain that gets worse over 18 holes, the IMAK glove is the better choice. Its breathable comfort and effective pain reduction are unmatched. However, if your pain is linked to joint instability and you want a super secure grip, the ITHW glove might be better for you.
Showdown: Best Value – Zexhoor 2-Pack vs. Dr. Arthritis
Both of these gloves are budget-friendly, but they serve slightly different purposes.
- The Zexhoor Pack wins on pure price. You get two pairs for a very low cost. The compression is light, and the durability is lower.
- The Dr. Arthritis Glove wins on comfort and quality. It is softer and feels better made, but you only get one pair.
The Winner? If your only concern is spending as little money as possible, choose Zexhoor. If you are willing to pay a little more for a noticeably more comfortable and better-made glove for mild symptoms, choose Dr. Arthritis.
Who Should Buy What? A Guide Based on Your Needs?
Here is my final advice to help you choose the right glove.
For the Golfer Seeking Maximum Therapeutic Pain Relief
Your choice is the IMAK Compression Arthritis Glove. Its focus on medical-grade, breathable compression makes it the most effective tool for fighting arthritis pain on the golf course.
For the Golfer Who Prioritizes Grip Security and Strong Support
Your choice is the ITHW Copper Compression Glove. Its firm compression and innovative anti-slip palm give you confidence and support that the other gloves cannot match.
For the Golfer on a Tight Budget
Your choice is the Zexhoor Arthritis Gloves (2-Pair). This pack lets you experience the benefits of compression wear without a financial risk. They are a great starting point.
For the Golfer with Mild Pain Who Wants All-Day Comfort
Your choice is the Dr. Arthritis Essentials Glove. Its soft fabric and comfortable fit are perfect for managing minor stiffness and fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear a compression glove under a traditional golf glove?
Yes, you can. I tested this with several gloves. The thin, cotton-based IMAK glove works best as an under-glove because it is breathable and does not add too much bulk. You will likely need to buy a traditional golf glove that is one size larger to accommodate the compression glove underneath.
Do copper-infused gloves really work better?
My testing focused on the physical effect of compression. The ITHW copper glove provided excellent pain relief because of its firm compression, not necessarily because of the copper. While some people believe in the benefits of copper, the primary reason any of these gloves work is the compression they provide. The IMAK glove, which has no copper, was the most effective for pain relief in my tests.
How do I wash these gloves to make them last?
Care instructions are critical. Most of these gloves, including the IMAK and ITHW, require hand washing only. I found that gentle hand washing and air drying preserved the elasticity and shape of the gloves much better than machine washing. Always check the product details for specific care instructions.
Final Verdict
After many rounds of golf and detailed analysis we found the IMAK Compression Arthritis Glove is the best overall golf glove for arthritic hands.
It wins because it does the most important job the best: it reduces pain. The gentle compression, combined with the soft, breathable cotton fabric, allows you to play golf in comfort. It supports your joints without feeling restrictive. While it doesn’t have a special grip, the pain relief it provides helps you naturally grip the club better by reducing tension.
Golf should be enjoyable, not painful. The right glove can make all the difference. I hope this detailed guide helps you find the perfect support for your game.