In the FM portfolio, we have 5 latex types (Super Contact, Contact PRO, Giga Grip, Hard LX, Grip Pro Training). Two of them — Contact PRO 4mm i Giga Grip — these are the flagship match gloves. 80% of customers with the dilemma 'which to choose' compare these two. We break down the difference into its core components.
1. What exactly is 'German latex'?
All flagship goalkeeper latexes (FM, Reusch, Uhlsport, Adidas PRO) come from 3-4 factories in Germany. The foundation is natural rubber + synthetic additives in a specific proportion — the more natural, the better the grip but shorter durability. The more synthetic, the opposite. The balance is the factory's know-how.
FM does not produce its own latex — we purchase from the same suppliers as global brands, and we select the combination of layers for each model. Contact PRO and Giga Grip are two different formulas.
2. CONTACT PRO 4MM — Universal Grip
Specification
- Thickness: 4 mm
- Shore A Hardness: ~25 (soft, but not spongy)
- Texture: smooth with micro-pores
- Intended Use: match + training in all conditions
Practical advantages
- Performs as well in the rain as in dry conditions. Micro-pores absorb moisture and maintain friction.
- Appropriate thickness for cushioning — 4 mm absorbs the impact of a strong shot without finger pain (vs 3 mm where you 'feel the bone').
- Average price (models with Contact PRO ~380-450 EUR) — you don't break the bank, you don't compromise.
Disadvantages / Limitations
- Grip in ideal conditions (dry, +20°C) is slightly weaker than the top-tier Giga Grip. The difference is measurable on a test station, but rarely noticeable in play.
- Durability: 25-35 training sessions with intensive use (3 times a week).
Model with Contact PRO: Invictus X PRO.
3. GIGA GRIP — max grip for demanding goalkeepers
Specification
- Thickness: 4 mm
- Shore A Hardness: ~22 (softer than Contact PRO)
- Texture: slightly 'rubbery', more 'tacky'
- Purpose: matches, tournaments, professional/semi-professional leagues
Practical advantages
- Highest coefficient of friction among our latex types. The ball 'sticks' to the glove, it does not 'slip off'.
- Handles new balls better (slippery futsal, FIFA Pro 2024 which are more 'laminated') — Contact PRO might have a temporary issue here.
- Longer grip durability — softens evenly, doesn't become erratic after 10 training sessions.
Disadvantages / Limitations
- Price 15-25% higher (models with Giga Grip ~450-550 EUR).
- In strong sun it becomes too sticky — attracts sand, grass particles. Requires more frequent cleaning.
- Less versatile for training — such durable latex, but for a sandy training ground, it's overkill.
Model with Giga Grip: Varis X PRO.
4. Direct comparison table
| Parameter | Contact PRO 4mm | Giga Grip |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Grip | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Wet grip | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Durability (training) | 25-35 | 30-40 |
| Cushioning | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Price | 380-450 zł | 450-550 zł |
| Who it's for | Most goalkeepers | Crucial matches, top leagues |
5. When to choose Contact PRO (80% of cases)
- You play 3 times a week, a mix of training + matches.
- Polish climate (variable conditions — rain, wind, sun).
- Budget up to 450 EUR per pair.
- You don't want to buy two pairs (1 match / 1 training).
6. When to choose Giga Grip (20% of cases)
- You play in a league at the IV-Ekstraklasa level.
- You already have a training pair — Giga Grip will be purely for matches.
- You mainly play indoors/on artificial turf/in summer tournaments (less mud, more sand = valued durability).
- You can afford it and want the maximum. OK, no need to pretend.
Don't waste 500 EUR on guessing
A dedicated FM advisor will configure a match glove for you based on your position, style, and conditions. 90 seconds, 5 questions, a specific recommendation with justification. We include a 14-day guarantee with every pair.
Launch FM advisor →7. Myth #1 — 'thicker latex = greater durability'
FALSE. Contact PRO 4mm vs Giga Grip 4mm — same thickness, different formula. The formula (chemical composition) determines durability, not the millimetres. Marketers present 4mm as a 'premium' argument. We say: look at the composition, not the thickness.
8. What science says — latex adhesion in sport
Study of synthetic material adhesion to wet surfaces (Persson, Wear Journal) confirms that surface micro-texture (Contact PRO) outperforms smooth latexes in wet conditions, while smooth "sticky" formulas (Giga Grip) have an advantage in dry conditions. This isn't marketing — it's contact physics.
Summary in 2 sentences
If you're unsure — choose Contact PRO 4mm. This is the sweet spot for 80% of goalkeepers. Giga Grip is an upgrade for those who already know what they want, play regularly in a league, and are willing to pay extra for 5% more grip.
In both cases — Polish brand FM since 2014, the same German factories, 14-day satisfaction guarantee.