Before we start with this explanation, you should first of all know why some goalkeeper’s gloves have this film on them. For this, you should of course know how the latex of goalkeeper gloves is created. We are not going to explain this in detail, but you can find it in our blog “How is the latex of goalkeeper gloves made“.
Different types of latex
In the development of this latex, there are differences that stand out, and which also give rise to differences in the price ranges of the various gloves brands. It would be unfair to say that the price of the glove depends only on the palm latex. No, in the lower and cheaper segment, inferior material is also used on the upper side of the goalkeeper’s glove. Sometimes this can be synthetic or even PVC material.
The top segments use high quality materials in all areas of the gloves. In all cases, the latex on the front of the gloves is one level lower than the latex on the palm with the plastic film on it. Otherwise you would have even more work to remove it :-). Now there is a new trend with the use of Rubber Gel. It is a durable material that also provides good cushioning when the goalkeeper has to box out a high ball.
You will rightly notice that there is not a plastic film on all top models, which is true, and that brings us to the point of why a film is or is not used in the production of goalkeeper gloves. Some types of latex are not sticky by themselves and need to be “prepared” before the optimal grip comes into effect. However, there is only one type of latex that is sticky enough that a film has to be provided during the production process so that it does not get damaged before you want to start playing with it.
Why is there plastic film on my goalkeeper gloves?
The production of your goalkeeper gloves involves a lot of manual work. Goalkeeper gloves are still connected to each other by hand. In order to make this process easier manufacturers use talcum powder. Yes, you heard right, but this makes it easier for the person who has to make your goalkeeper gloves to do it. This phenomenon also explains why you do not have the best grip with goalkeeper gloves without this film. The talcum powder will still be present on your latex in minimal quantities. So the message is to wash it out first to get the best grip of these goalkeeper gloves.
You probably already know the one with the plastic from the many videos on Instagram. The goalkeeper gloves are glued to each other or to the goalpost to show how good the grip is. Nice to see, but not ideal for the latex of your goalkeeper gloves. There is a chance that the latex will tear and wear out more quickly. Therefore it is important that you remove the plastic from the gloves in the right way. Take your time and follow the instructions in our video to enjoy your goalkeeper gloves as much as possible.
