TRAINING LATEX
Ideal for children up to 12 years old. Sturdy, durable, affordable replacement.
Goalkeeper gloves for children — choosing the right size and model
Reusch · Uhlsport · adidas · Puma · KEEPERsport
Goalkeeper gloves for children should be chosen based on age, hand size and playing ability. A glove that’s too big reduces ball control, whilst one that’s too small restricts blood circulation. With the right size and the right latex, even an 8-year-old goalkeeper will make better saves and have more fun.
This guide explains everything parents need to know: how to measure the hand, which size is suitable for each age group, when ‘Fingersave’ gloves are a good idea, and which models are genuinely recommended.
— The right size is more important than the price — a poorly fitting glove offers no protection
— Hard latex for children: greater durability, lower cost, more training sessions
— Fingersave only from 10–12 years of age — before that, it restricts natural finger development
— Rapid growth: buy half a size larger to last the whole season
— Applies to all brands: Reusch, Uhlsport, adidas, Puma and KEEPERsport
At what age can you start playing in goal?
There is no minimum age for the goalkeeper position. Children usually specialise between the ages of 6 and 8. For children under 6, there is little point in investing in technical gloves — a simple training pair is sufficient. From the age of 10, children start to develop their own playing style, and it’s worth investing in a high-quality pair of gloves.
Choosing the right size for children
Measure the circumference of the hand with a tape measure around the knuckles, excluding the thumb. Add 1 cm to this measurement to get the base size. For children who are growing quickly: buy half a size larger so that the gloves will last the whole season.
Size chart for children’s goalkeeper gloves by age
| Age | Hand circumference (cm) | Recommended size |
|---|---|---|
| 5–6 years | 13–14 cm | 3 |
| 7–8 years | 14–15 cm | 4 |
| 9–10 years | 15–16 cm | 5 |
| 11–12 years | 16–17 cm | 6 |
| 13–14 years | 17–18 cm | 7 |
| 15+ years | 18–19 cm | 8–9 |
Note: Sizes may vary slightly depending on the brand. Reusch fits slightly tighter, whilst Uhlsport fits slightly looser. If in doubt, choose the larger size.
Which type of latex is best for children — hard or soft?
For children and young people up to the age of 14, we recommend hard training latex. It lasts considerably longer than soft match latex, can withstand rough handling and is better value for money — ideal for children who are still growing and train several times a week. Soft match latex is only really worth it for young people aged 14–15 and over.
Fingersave for children — yes or no?
Fingersave sticks are not recommended for children under 10–12 years of age. Their fingers are still developing — finger guards restrict natural movement and prevent the child from developing a genuine feel for the ball. From the age of 12, during intensive training or following a finger injury, finger guards may be useful.
HYBRID LATEX
Ages 12 and over. A balance of grip and durability.
MATCH-LATEX
Ages 14–15 and over. Soft, maximum grip, wears down quickly.
FINGERSAVE
Ages 12 and over. Protection during intensive training and competition.
The best goalkeeper gloves for children 2025/26
The best children’s gloves combine durable latex, a secure fit and a fair price. Reusch, Uhlsport and KEEPERsport offer the most reliable models for young goalkeepers — tried and tested and recommended by our experts.
For children aged 6 to 10, an entry-level model is the right choice. Hard latex, simple construction, priced between €20 and €35. For young people aged 10 to 14, it’s worth stepping up a level — a hybrid latex offers more grip without compromising on durability. From the age of 14, you can start looking at semi-pro models with soft match latex.
KEEPERsport offers specific models for every age group — from the very first beginner’s glove to competition models for youth teams. The advantage: direct from the manufacturer, with no middleman mark-ups.
The complete kit for the young goalkeeper — what’s really needed
Apart from the gloves, a young goalkeeper needs very little to get started. The most important items are the gloves, a goalkeeper’s jersey with shoulder and elbow padding, and shorts with built-in knee pads. Everything else comes with time and as their level of play improves.
— Goalkeeping gloves — the most important piece of kit
— Goalkeeper jersey with shoulder and elbow padding
— Shorts with built-in knee pads
— Grip socks — optional but recommended from youth level onwards
When should you buy new gloves for children?
Children grow quickly — check their size every 6 months. If their fingers touch the fingertips of the gloves or the latex shows deep tears in the palm, it’s time for a new pair. Don’t wait until the gloves are completely worn out — gloves that don’t fit properly increase the risk of finger injuries.
Frequently asked questions about goalkeeper gloves for children
The most common questions from parents — answered directly and without beating about the bush.
At what age does a child need goalkeeping gloves?
There is no minimum age. Most children start between the ages of 6 and 8. For children under 6, a simple training model is sufficient. From the age of 10, it’s worth investing in a high-quality glove.
How do I measure the right size for my child?
Measure the circumference of your hand with a tape measure around the knuckles, excluding the thumb. Add 1 cm to ensure you get the correct size. If you’re unsure between two sizes, always choose the larger one.
Are Fingersave gloves suitable for children?
Not for children under 10–12 years of age. Their fingers are still developing, and FingerSave restricts their natural range of movement. From the age of 12, particularly during intensive competitive activity, they offer useful protection.
Which type of latex is best for children?
Hard training latex for children up to 12–13 years old. Greater durability, lower cost, ideal for training several times a week. Soft match latex wears out too quickly for children.
How much should you spend on children’s gloves?
Between €20 and €40 for children up to the age of 12. For children aged 12–13 who are training intensively, a model costing between €40 and €60 is suitable. Models costing more than €60 are only worthwhile for those competing at youth level.
How often should children’s gloves be washed?
After each use. A quick rinse under lukewarm water is sufficient for basic care. Latex breaks down when exposed to dirt and sweat — even in children’s gloves.
Can children use the same gloves as adults?
No. Children’s sizes start at size 3. Adult sizes start at size 6–7. A glove that is too big reduces ball control and increases the risk of injury.
When is it time for new gloves?
When the fingers touch the fingertips, the latex shows deep cracks, or the grip no longer works despite regular care. For fast-growing children, check the size every 6 months.
Author: Simon Harrasser — professional goalkeeper and product expert at KEEPERsport. Simon knows from personal experience what young goalkeepers really need — what size fits, which latex offers the best grip, and when it makes sense to switch to your first pair of finger-save gloves.