How to Measure Goalkeeper Glove Size — 2-Minute Guide
TL;DR: Measure the circumference of your hand with a tailor's tape at its widest point (excluding the thumb). The circumference in centimeters = your approximate glove size. In between sizes? Go for the larger one.
Why Size is Critical
80% of goalkeeper glove returns are due to wrong sizing. A glove that's too small = restricted finger movement, faster tears when catching. A glove that's too big = loose fingertips, the ball "escapes" your grip, faster wear on the latex finger area.
A well-fitted size = the glove works with you, not against you.
What You Need
- A tailor's tape (or a string + ruler)
- 2 minutes
- Someone to help (or measure it yourself)
Step 1: Hand Circumference
Measure the circumference of your hand at its widest point — just below the knuckles, excluding the thumb.
Keep your hand relaxed, not clenched.
Write down the number in cm.
Step 2: Hand Length
Measure from your wrist to the tip of your middle finger.
Add a 1 cm buffer — the glove should extend slightly beyond your fingertip so the foam can absorb impacts.
Write down the number in cm.
Step 3: Matching the Size
Approximate mapping for adults:
| Hand Circumference (cm) | FM Size |
|---|---|
| ~20 | 7 |
| ~22 | 8 |
| ~23 | 9 |
| ~24 | 10 |
| ~26 | 11 |
For juniors (Invictus X Junior):
| Age | Size |
|---|---|
| U7-U9 (child 6-9 years) | 3 |
| U9-U12 (child 9-12 years) | 4 |
| U12-U15 (child 12-14 years) | 5 |
Always measure specifically — children grow at different rates, age is just a guideline.
Step 4: Between Sizes — How to Decide
Negativecut (Varis) — fits tighter. If you're in between → choose the larger size.Roll Finger+cut (Invictus) — leaves more space. In between? You can go smaller, but if you have wide hands, it's safer to go larger.
General rule: the glove should be comfortable, not tight.
Left vs. Right Hand
It's normal for one hand to be slightly larger — usually the dominant one. A 2-3 mm difference doesn't matter. If your hands differ by a whole size (it happens) — choose the size for the larger hand.
Test After Delivery
Before first use:
- Put the gloves on — they should fit like a good slipper: snug, not tight.
- Fingers should touch the tips with minimal space (0.5-1 cm).
- Wrap the wrist strap — it should be secure, but not cut off circulation.
- Make a fist — the foam shouldn't wrinkle sharply or bulge at the wrist.
- Open your hand — no tightness.
If something doesn't fit within 14 days — no-questions-asked return (provided the glove is unused and not personalized).
Common Mistakes
- Buying "to grow into" (for a child) — a glove that's 2 sizes too big is a nightmare for a junior: the ball slips, the foam tears faster while fighting for control. It's better to buy the right size and replace it next year.
- Checking "like shoes" — a glove is not a shoe, it barely stretches with use. The size must be perfect from the start.
- Relying on a size from another brand — FM sizing = standard EU (similar to another premium brand, Uhlsport). But don't trust the size without measuring; different brands can vary by half a size.
Ready to Buy
- How to choose a model — after sizing, pick your model
- Shop Gloves — the store
- FAQ — other questions