Cricket Wicket Keeping Gloves Size Guide

Choosing the Right Size & Design of Wicket Keeping Gloves

Wicket keeping is one of cricket's most demanding positions. Pro fast bowlers deliver balls at speeds exceeding 140km/h, requiring wicket keepers to have incredible reflexes, coordination and a steady nerve. A growing body of research shows that finger and hand injuries are a common issue for keepers, that often prevent them from playing. In addition, in Australian conditions, where temperatures regularly exceed 30°C and humidity affects grip. With these factors in mind, choosing the right wicket keeping gloves isn't just about performance; it's essential for hand protection and injury prevention.

This guide will help you choose the correct size and best type of wicket keeping gloves for performance, comfort and safety. Having the right wicket keeping equipment, will also likely lead to greater fun and enjoyment - which is what grassroots and junior cricket is all about.

Like all cricket gloves, wicket keeping gloves come in various sizes and styles. Designed for different skill levels and hand shapes, the gloves should fit snug but not tight. This allows for both flexibility and control. The quality of materials and design, in addition to the sizing, also affects dexterity, control, and comfort.

Many players pick gloves based on brand or price, overlooking the importance of proper sizing. Regardless of the brand and design of gloves, a good fit is key to comfort and effectiveness behind the stumps. This guide explains how to measure your hands, the types of gloves available, and what to consider when choosing a new pair.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be confident in selecting gloves that protect your hands and allow you to play to your full potential.

How to Get the Right Size of Wicket Keeping Gloves

Choosing the correct size of wicket keeping gloves is essential. Gloves that are too large can feel bulky and reduce catching proficiency. Gloves that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort. The most reliable way to find the right size is by measuring your hand correctly and matching it to a size guide, like the one below.

How to Measure for Wicket Keeping Gloves

To measure your hand, take a tape measure or ruler and place it at the top of your wrist and measure the length to the top of your middle finger.

A reliable fit starts with an accurate measurement. Don't guess based on age; follow this simple process:

The Measurement: Place a ruler at your wrist crease (where your hand meets your arm).
The Tip: Measure to the very end of your middle finger.
The Units: Record this in centimetres (cm).

Pro Tip: If you plan on wearing wicket keeping inner gloves (which we highly recommend), take your measurement while wearing them to ensure the wicket keeping gloves fit with them on.

Wicket Keeping Gloves Size
Size	Hand Size (cm)	Hand Size (inch)
Junior	19–20 cm	7.5–7.9 in
Small Adult	21–22 cm	8.3–8.7 in
Adult	23–24 cm	9.1–9.5 in
Large Adult	24–25 cm	9.5–9.8 in

Between sizes? Choose the size that provides a snug fit without compressing your fingers or restricting movement. Avoid sizing up for "room to grow". Oversized gloves significantly reduce catching control, dexterity and hand protection.

How Wicket Keeping Gloves Should Fit

Wicket keeping gloves should feel a little snug - but your fingers should move freely.

Finger Fit - Your fingertips should sit close to the end of each finger with minimal spare space (5-10mm). Too much additional room causes the glove to lag behind your hand movements and reduces dexterity/control. If the gloves are too tight this also restricts dexterity and comfort.

Palm & Grip - The glove should catch the cricket ball without the wicket keeping having to fight against any stiffness. You should feel connected to and feel the ball through the palms of the gloves.

Wrist Cuff - The cuff should feel stable and supportive. A loose cuff can shift during impact, reducing control and causing discomfort over time.

Flexibility Test - Flex your hand fully with the gloves on. If you feel pinching or significant resistance, the gloves are too small. If there's excessive material bunching, they're too large.

Common Fit Problems to Avoid

Too Large - Fingers feel floppy at the ends due to excessive space, ball is difficult to catch and hold on to.

Too Small - Fingers feel compressed, difficulty flexing hand, discomfort after short periods of wear.

Wrong Cuff - Glove shifts at wrist, lacks support when catching or throwing.

The Importance of Correctly Fitted Wicket Keeping Gloves

Hand Protection & Injury Prevention

Research shows that hand injuries are a major concern and one of the most common injuries for wicket keepers. Many wikcet keepers require hand surgery and lengthy rehabilitation at some point in their careers. Broken and fractured fingers are a common problem. Properly fitted wicket keeping gloves provide:

Impact Absorption - High-density foam padding protects fingers from the force of cricket balls.

Finger Reinforcement - Reinforced fingers and thumbs prevent hyperextension.

Enhanced Proprioception - Snug-fitting gloves improve your sense of hand position and ball contact.

Improved Grip & Ball Control

Correctly fitting gloves, with the correct palms, give maximum grip. Premium gloves, like FORTRESS Original Pro Leather Wicket Keeper Gloves feature octopus-dimpled rubber palms. This palm surface creates friction and "stickiness." This advanced grip technology makes catching and handling significantly easier.

This is particularly important in Australian conditions where:

- Heat and humidity create sweaty palms

- Damp outfields and evening dew make the ball slick

A correct fit ensures the glove moves with your hand as a single unit. This maximises grip and minimising ball slippage.

Choosing the Right Type of Wicket Keeping Gloves

Junior & Amateur Club Wicket Keeping Gloves

Key Priorities: Comfort, lighter weight, easy hand closure, developing proper technique

For young keepers and beginners, focus on building confidence and learning correct technique. Look for:

Ergonomic cupped design that encourages natural catching position
Manageable padding that protects without feeling bulky
Lighter materials that don't fatigue small hands during training

Research shows that the palms of the hands are highly significant in terms of temperature regulation. Junior cricket in Australia often takes place in very hot conditions. Parents and coaches should therefore look to prioritise gloves with ventilation to prevent hands from overheating, as junior players are more prone to dehydration and hyperthermia.

Pro Club & Elite Wicket Keeping Gloves

Key Priorities: Enhanced protection, shock absorption, maintaining grip in variable conditions.

For club and pro wicket keepers facing deliveries over 110km/h, prioritise gloves that handle high-impact forces while supporting quick movements. Look for:

Reinforced finger caps with plastic fibre or rubber linings. They prevent hyperextension and distribute impact
High-density foam padding across fingers, thumbs, and hand back. Provides superior shock absorption during long innings.
Supportive wrist cuffs. Provides stability for diving, throwing, and fast reactions.

For Australia's hard pitches, and hot, humid climates, choose breathable materials.

FORTRESS Wicket Keeping Gloves Comparison
Feature	FORTRESS Original (Club)	FORTRESS Original Pro (Elite)
Best for	All formats; comfort, flexibility & durability	Designs for fast-paced & traditional cricket
Outer material	Outer PU leather	Genuine sheepskin leather
Palm grip	Octopus rubber grip palm	Octopus dimpled rubber palm (ultra-grip)
Finger protection	Rubber finger caps, foam lined	Plastic fibre finger tabs
Cuff / wrist padding	High-density foam padding, rounded cuffs	Foam-padded square wrist cuffs (pro-grade)
Comfort & lining	Fully cotton lined for comfort	Sheepskin lining with cotton filling
Sizes available	Junior / Youth / Adult	Junior / Youth / Adult / Large Adult
Regulation compliance	Fully compliant with MCC Laws	Fully compliant with MCC Laws
Price point (AUD)	From $69.99 (at time of writing)	From $169.99 (at time of writing)

Test vs T20 Wicket Keeping Gloves

Key Priorities: Protection, breathability, long‑duration comfort for test matches, grip under pressure

For test cricket / longer‑format cricket, keepers may be on their feet for hours across multiple days. Comfort, sweat management, and consistent feel become critical. Look for:

Breathable backhand materials and ventilated fingers to prevent overheating and maintain dry, stable grip.
Secure but comfortable wrist cuffs that support repeated squatting, standing, and lateral movements without causing rubbing or restriction.
High‑quality inner linings that reduce moisture build‑up. This will help to minimise blisters and maintain confidence in catching.

In T20 cricket, the game is shorter but more explosive. There is frequent power hitting and rapid changes of direction placing different stresses on the hands and fingers. Look for:

Reinforced finger caps and high‑density foam padding that can handle repeated high‑velocity impacts from aggressive batting and thicker edges.
Grippy palm materials that maintain a secure hold on the ball in fast, high‑pressure situations.
A flexible, responsive glove construction that allows quick hand closure and rapid transfers to the stumps, supporting the dynamic, high‑intensity nature of the format.

Key Parts and Features of Wicket Keeping Gloves

Palm Grip Technology

The palm needs to grip the ball as much as possible. Modern high-quality wicket keeping gloves use several grip technologies:

Octopus-dimpled rubber: Creates friction and stickiness for enhanced ball control
Textured PU surfaces: Provides grip without excessive bulk
Rubber finger caps: Lined with foam for protection and extra grip on finger contact points

As Australia gets extremely hot compared to other cricket-mad locations like the UK, palm technology can make a measurable difference to performance and comfort. With this in mind, ventilated, high grip palms are important for performance and wellbeing/avoiding hyperthermia.

Finger & Thumb Protection

Look for reinforced high-density foam padding in finger and thumb areas. This protection:

Absorbs shock from fast-moving cricket balls
Reduces risk of finger hyperextension from deflections
Minimises bruising and impact injuries during long keeping spells
Maintains shape over time, ensuring consistent protection

Wrist Cuffs

Often overlooked but critically important. Quality wrist cuffs provide:

Stability: Prevents glove movement during impact and throwing
Support: Reduces wrist strain during repetitive catching and throwing actions
Comfort: Foam padding prevents rubbing and pressure points
Adjustability: Some models offer strap systems for customised fit

Ventilation & Breathability

Ventilation features help manage moisture:

Mesh panels on back of hand allow airflow
Breathable materials reduce sweat build-up
Moisture-wicking liners work with inner gloves to manage palm perspiration
Better ventilation maintains grip performance and extends glove lifespan by reducing moisture damage.

Webbing & Catching Surface

The webbing is the bridge between the thumb and forefinger, acting as a critical safety net for "fringe" catches.

Law-Compliant Design: Ensure the webbing is not overly large, staying within ICC/MCC regulations while maximizing the catching zone.
Reinforced T-Webbing: Look for a deep, reinforced "T" or "V" junction. This provides a stable pocket to hold onto the ball.
Strap Reinforcement: The webbing should be securely stitched to the fingers with heavy-duty nylon thread.
FORTRESS Advantage: The FORTRESS range uses high-grade materials in the web to ensure it remains flexible enough for a "soft" catch but durable enough to withstand thousands of ball impacts.

Back of Hand Protection

While the palm catches the ball, the back of the hand is most vulnerable to injury during "stray" deliveries or when diving.

High-Density (HD) Foam Ribbing: Multi-sectioned foam across the knuckles allows the glove to flex easily while providing a thick shield against direct hits.
Aniline & PU Leather Outer: Top-quality gloves like the FORTRESS Pro use Aniline leather, which is exceptionally soft for better "feel" but incredibly tough./li>
Independent Finger Tips: Look for gloves where the finger caps are separately encased. This design allows for better dexterity.

Durability & Construction Quality

High-quality wicket keeping gloves feature:

Reinforced stitching in high-stress areas
Quality leather or PU materials that resist wear
Secure palm bonding that won't separate with regular use
Robust finger protection that maintains shape over time

Poor construction leads to premature palm wear, loose stitching, and reduced protection. If the gloves feel poorly constructed, the gloves can also have a psychological impact on performance, especially if the keeper doesn't have much faith or trust in the gloves to protect his/her hands.

Using & Maintaining Your Wicket Keeping Gloves

Arguably the most important piece of equipment for any wicket keeper, knowing how to use and maintain them correctly can ensure you perform at your best and extend the life of the gloves. In this section we'll cover practical tips and some best practices to help you make the most of your gloves.

Breaking in Your Wicket Keeping Gloves

New wicket keeping gloves will often feel tight, stiff and awkward at first. Breaking them in properly will ensure maximum comfort and grip for your first use during a match or training.

The most effective way to break in your gloves is to wear them during casual practice and training sessions. If you have a cricket rebounder for example, spending for example - 20 minutes per day practising your catching will gradually mould the gloves to the shape of your hands.

If the gloves still feel stiff, check the manufacturer's instructions. They might recommend specific techniques or conditioning products to break the gloves in more effectively.

Finally, there is also a technique using a cricket ball. Some wicket keepers will roll a cricket ball over the back of the gloves to soften them. Only do this once you have checked with the manufacturer however, as it could impact the glove's warranty if it is not a recommended technique for breaking them in.

Never use oils that are not specifically designed for wicket keeping gloves, never soak your gloves or apply heat to them to break them in. To avoid making the gloves stiff and hard again once broken in, be sure to store them in a cool, ventilated area away from direct sunlight and sources of heat like fires and radiators.

How to Clean & Maintain Wicket Keeping Gloves

Correctly cleaning and maintaining your wicket keeping gloves can extend their longevity by a significant amount. Dirt, sweat and debris accumulate quickly during the Australian cricket season, and can weaken and damage the glove's materials if left untreated.

Check the gloves cleaning instructions for specific guidance. Below is a general guide for maintaining your gloves:

After Every Training Session & Match

Remove surface dirt with a soft brush or dry cloth
Wipe down exterior with slightly damp cloth if needed
Air dry naturally in cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight
Never soak gloves or use harsh detergents
Avoid direct heat sources (heaters, radiators, hot cars)

Deep Cleaning (As Needed)

Always check manufacturer's instructions - general guide below
Brush off all loose dirt and debris
Prepare cleaning solution: 1ml mild hand soap in small amount of water
Damp cloth application: Apply solution with damp (not wet) cloth to stubborn marks
Remove excess immediately with clean damp cloth
Air dry completely before storage

Specialised Leather Care

For premium leather gloves:

Use leather-specific cleaners recommended by manufacturer
Apply leather conditioner sparingly (2-3 times per season maximum)
Polish if recommended by manufacturer instructions
Never over-condition which can make leather heavy and slippery

Storage Best Practices

Proper storage prevents material damage and maintains glove shape:

Cool, dry location with good airflow
Avoid compression — don't pile heavy gear on top of gloves
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
Use wicket keeper glove bag for protection during transport
Store with inner gloves removed to allow both pairs to air properly

Wicket Keeping Gloves Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same gloves for training and matches?
This depends on individual preference. Using the same gloves for training and matches, can help you get really used and in-sync with the feel of your gloves. However, having separate training and match gloves extends the life of your match pair and ensures optimal protection for competitive cricket. Using budget-friendly training gloves can absorb the wear of regular practice.

Should junior players wear the same gloves as adults?
Generally no - junior gloves will not only be a different size, they may also have different design specifications and features especially for children. Junior gloves might be designed with lighter materials, easier closures, and appropriate padding levels for younger hands and slower bowling speeds. Don't put juniors in adult gloves even if their hands measure into adult sizing, as the weight and bulk will impair development and could lead to a frustrating and negative early experience of wicket keeping.

What size wicket keeping gloves do I need?
Measure from your wrist crease to the tip of your middle finger in centimeters. Junior: 19-20cm, Small Adult: 21-22cm, Adult: 23-24cm, Large Adult: 24-25cm. Always measure while wearing inner gloves if you plan to use them.

What's the difference between wicket keeping gloves and batting gloves?
Wicket keeping gloves have reinforced finger protection, thicker palm padding, extended wrist cuffs, and specialised grip surfaces. They're designed to catch balls where as batting gloves have extensive protection on the back of the hands and are designed for gripping cricket bats and protecting against impacts to the backs of the hands and the fingers primarily. Batting gloves don't have webbing like wicket keeping gloves do.

Do I need inner gloves for wicket keeping?
Inner gloves are highly recommended, especially in Australian conditions above 25°C - as the palms of your hands will likely sweat significantly. They reduce friction, manage moisture, extend main glove lifespan.

How do I prevent my gloves from smelling?
Use inner gloves is the most effective way to stop your gloves from smelling. Always check manufacturer's instructions for further guidance and cleaning practices. Allow gloves to air dry completely after every session, clean regularly, store in well-ventilated areas. Some unofficial tips found on internet cricket forums include adding a small pinch of baking soda in the gloves overnight, or usings deodorizing pods and sprays.

Cricket player in black wicket keeping gloves and yellow pads

How long do wicket keeping gloves last?
Quality gloves typically last one season (20-30 matches) for regular competitive players. Recreational keepers may get 1-2 years. Inner gloves and proper maintenance significantly extend lifespan. It also depends if you have seperate gloves for training and matches - and how often you practice in them.

Can wicket keepers wear any color gloves?
Yes, MCC Laws allow any color gloves for wicket keepers. White and cream are traditional, but colored gloves (black, navy, green) are popular in limited-overs cricket and allow team color coordination.

Final Tips for Buying & Using Wicket Keeping Gloves

Beyond sizing, features and materials, there are additional considerations for using wicket keeping gloves and performing at your best. These practical tips cover everything from smart purchasing decisions to playing habits that professional keepers use to get the most from their equipment.

Wicket Keeping Inner Gloves for Comfort & Longevity

Inner wicket keeping gloves are a cost-effective investment. They provide:

Friction reduction: Prevents blisters and rubbing
Moisture management: Wicks sweat away from palms, maintaining grip
Extended glove life: Protects the interior of main gloves from sweat damage and odour
Enhanced comfort: Adds a soft layer between the hands and main glove padding

Types of Inner Gloves

Chamois leather inners: Premium option offering excellent moisture absorption and durability
Cotton-lined inners: Comfortable and breathable
Ventilated mesh inners: Maximum airflow for extremely hot conditions

When Inner Gloves Are Essential

In Australian cricket conditions, inner gloves transition from optional to (arguably) essential when:

Keeping in temperatures above 25°C
Playing long-format matches or all-day competitions
Experiencing palm perspiration that affects grip
Training frequently and wanting to extend main glove lifespan

Without inner gloves in these conditions, palms would become sweaty and the gloves would degrade quicker than expected.

Knowing When to Replace Your Gloves

Whilst you can do lots of different things to increase the lifespan of your gloves, there will also come a point when they need replacing. The most obvious signs include visible damage to the webbing, split seams in high-impact areas. In addition compressed foam that no longer rebounds after impact if a sure sign that your gloves have seen better days. If you notice the palms have become hard and unresponsive, or if finger protection feels inadequate when taking fast deliveries; these are also good indicators that you might need to invest in a new pair of wicket keeping gloves.

Adapting to Different Playing Conditions

You don't need different gloves for different playing conditions. In hot and humid weather, consider wearing inner gloves to reduce the build up of sweat on the palms of your hands. In moist conditions, it can help to have a towel to hand to dry the gloves palms in between overs. In Australia, location can sometimes make a difference. Coastal grounds will often be more humid, so keep this in mind when packing your kit and considering whether or not to wear inner gloves. On a sidenote - remember a sports drink to avoid dehydration when training and competiting in hot and humid conditions.

Common Mistakes When Buying Wicket Keeping Gloves

A final checklist, to ensure you avoid some of the common mistakes that might mean you don't purchase the best gloves for you or a loved one.

Choosing based on age rather than measurement - always measure your hands
Buying too large for "growth room" - this can make the gloves frustrating to use until hands grow
Ignoring wrist support quality - important for avoiding wrist injuries
Not considering palm grip technology - look for octopus grip palms
Overlooking inner gloves importance - can provide extra protection and comfort

Finding the Perfect Wicket Keeping Equipment at Net World Sports

Whether you are a junior wicket keeper just starting out, or a seasoned pro, the principles for choosing the right gloves remain the same - measure your hands accurately, chose a pair that matches your budget and ensure you clean and store the gloves correctly after use. High-quality wicket keeping gloves are an investment in your performance and safety. With finger injuries being a common issue for wicket keepers, choosing high-quality gloves with quality finger padding and protection remains a priority. At Net World Sports in addition to wicket keeping gloves, we supply an array of cricket equipment, including training equipment, cricket cages, cricket bats and cricket whites. Used by elite teams including Durham County Cricket Club, FORTRESS cricket equipment is second to none.