Backhand Materials of Goalkeeper Gloves

Backhand latex is a crucial and cost-effective part of goalkeeper gloves. It covers the back of the gloves, where the design is applied. Many professional goalkeepers choose their gloves based on the material used for the backhand.

That’s why it’s important to be careful and smart when choosing the backhand material for your gloves, especially if you’re starting or running your own brand.

In this article, as a manufacturer and developer of goalkeeper gloves, we’ll introduce you to some backhand materials and explain their uses, as well as their compatibility with different glove designs.

Goalkeeper gloves come in different kinds, including backhand latex:

  • EVA
  • Lightweight
  • High Foam
  • Damboo / PK Latex
  • Damboo 3mm
  • PK Latex 4mm
  • China Latex
  • New Basic Latex
  • Super Low Latex
  • Neoprene
  • Sereno
  • Mesh
  • Pique
  • Prim-knit
  • More

01.

EVA FOAM

Did you know? EVA foam used to be one of the most popular materials for glove backhands. Commonly used in shoes and flooring, it’s a strong, durable, and affordable material. Some brands decided to incorporate it into the backhand of goalkeeper gloves after its success in footwear.

Printings:

The printing process for EVA foam is different from other glove materials. It takes more time and costs more to print. Therefore, for the best results, manufacturers need to use Line Table Printing.

Embossing:

It can be embossed.

02.

LIGHTWEIGHT FOAM

Lightweight foam is commonly used for goalkeeper training gloves. At 2mm thick, it’s not as strong as other materials but offers a smooth, plain surface. It’s affordable and provides clear, detailed printing colors. This cost-effective foam is often used in budget-friendly gloves to help manage overall costs.

Thickness: 1.5-2.5mm
Durability: Medium
Grip: Good (dry), Fair (wet)
Ideal for: Youth goalkeeper gloves, Training
Benefits: Lightweight, flexible, breathable

Printings:

The printing process for this foam is straightforward and widely used. It is compatible with both Screen Printing and Line Table Printing.

Embossing:

It’s suitable for simple embossing.

03.

HIGH FOAM FOR GK GLOVES

High foam is now commonly used in the goalkeeper gloves market. It’s more durable and thicker than lightweight foam. It’s primarily used for the backhand area of the gloves but can also be suitable for the palm.

Printings:

Screen printing, Line Table Printing

Embossing:

Suitable for Embossing

04.

Damboo 3mm

Damboo 3mm, also known as PK Latex, is sometimes used as EVA Foam by certain brands. It’s a highly sought-after material in the goalkeeper glove market due to its durability and strength. Although it’s a bit harder and less stretchable than German latex, it offers a clear and detailed printing result.

Printings:

Screen Printing, Line table Printing

Embossing:

Yes Emboss-able

05.

PK LATEX 4mm

PK Latex is of the same quality as 3mm Damboo foam but is thicker. It is not widely available in the market, so some manufacturers specially order it to meet specific customer demands.

Printings:

In the same way as Damboo

Embossing:

In the same way as Damboo

06.

CHINA LATEX FOR GOALKEEPER GLOVES

China latex is a unique foam that is used by only a few brands. It is specially imported from China upon request.

It has a shiny, soft appearance that makes it look quite durable. However, it’s not as clean or smooth as Damboo or Lightweight foam, as it features spots and a rough texture on the outside.

It’s a mid-level glove material, so it is neither very expensive nor the cheapest option.

Printings:

Screen Printing, Line Table Printing

Embossing:

Compatible for embossing