Why Wear a Glove
There are really only a few reasons to consider one:
Sweaty Hands
This is the main reason. Some people just sweat more than others. If you're constantly wiping your hands on your shorts or worried about the paddle slipping, a glove absorbs that moisture. Way easier than re-gripping mid-game.
Blister Prevention
When you're playing a lot, especially as a beginner developing your grip, blisters happen. A glove adds a layer of protection. I had a callus tear once and couldn't play comfortably for a week. Could've avoided that.
Cold Weather
Playing in cooler temperatures with a cold paddle grip isn't fun. Some people wear a light glove just to keep their hand warm. Helps maintain feel when it's 50 degrees out.
Types of Gloves
You don't need a pickleball-specific glove necessarily. A few different options work.
Golf Gloves
Most common choice. They're designed for grip in one hand, which is exactly what you need. Leather or synthetic, both work. I use a basic synthetic golf glove and it cost like $12.
Racquetball Gloves
These cover more of the hand and sometimes have padding. Good if you're worried about impact or play really hard. A bit thicker than golf gloves so you might lose some feel.
Pickleball-Specific Gloves
Yes these exist now. They're basically golf gloves marketed differently with maybe some minor tweaks. Usually cost more for the branding. I haven't found them to be notably better than regular golf gloves.
Fingerless Options
Some people prefer fingerless gloves for more feel on the fingers while still getting palm grip help. Matter of preference. I like having my fingers covered personally.
The Downsides
Gloves aren't perfect. There are reasons many players don't use them.
Reduced Feel
Any material between your hand and the grip reduces tactile feedback. For touch shots and dinks, this can be noticeable. Some players feel less connected to the paddle.
They Wear Out
If you're playing regularly, gloves don't last forever. The palm area wears through. Budget for replacements every few months if you play a lot.
Hot Weather Tradeoff
While they help with sweat, your hand is also hotter inside the glove. It's managing moisture, not eliminating it. Some people find the glove itself gets soaked and gross after a while.
Alternatives to Gloves
If you're not sold on gloves, there are other ways to deal with grip issues.
Overgrips
Tacky overgrips absorb sweat and can be replaced cheaply. Many players just swap overgrips when they get slippery instead of wearing a glove.
Grip Enhancers
Products like rosin bags or grip sprays add tackiness to your hands. Work for some people, feel weird to others. Worth trying before committing to a glove.
Towel Between Points
Old school but effective. Just wipe your hands and grip frequently. Free solution if you already have a towel.
My Take
I keep a glove in my bag for hot days. Don't wear it every time I play. When my hands are dry and the weather is nice, I prefer the direct feel of the grip. But on humid summer afternoons, the glove comes out and I don't worry about the paddle flying out of my hand.
Try one if you're curious. A cheap golf glove is like $10-15. If it doesn't help, you're not out much.