When it comes to goalkeeping, grip is everything. Whether you’re making a fingertip save or confidently claiming a cross, a secure grip can be the difference between keeping a clean sheet or picking the ball out of the net.
Lately, a trend has been gaining attention in the goalkeeper community—applying Vaseline to goalkeeper gloves in hopes of improving grip and performance. Some professional goalkeepers have reportedly used this trick during matches, which has led to many amateur and aspiring keepers wondering:
Does Vaseline really improve grip? And is it safe for your gloves?
Let’s break it down and find out if this trick is worth trying—or if it’s doing more harm than good.
🧴 Why Do Goalkeepers Use Vaseline on Their Gloves?
The idea behind using Vaseline (or petroleum jelly) on goalkeeper gloves is simple:
- Vaseline is believed to add a layer of tackiness to the palms of the gloves, which can temporarily enhance grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
- Some goalkeepers use it to maintain grip when their gloves have started to wear out or lose their initial stickiness.
In theory, the Vaseline creates a sticky film on the glove’s surface, giving the goalkeeper a better chance of maintaining control of the ball during tricky saves.
⚠️ The Downsides: Why Vaseline Can Ruin Your Gloves
While the short-term benefits of using Vaseline might seem tempting, the reality is that this trick can cause long-term damage to your gloves.
Here’s why:
-
Breaks Down the Latex
Goalkeeper gloves are made from high-quality latex, which provides the grip and flexibility goalkeepers rely on. However, Vaseline and other petroleum-based products can weaken the latex over time, breaking down its natural elasticity and stickiness. This leads to a significant decrease in performance and durability. -
Reduces Glove Lifespan
Gloves that have been treated with Vaseline often wear out much faster. The oils in Vaseline can seep into the latex, making it harder to clean and shortening the lifespan of your gloves. Over time, this leaves you with gloves that lose their grip and become more prone to tearing or damage. -
Difficult to Clean Off
Once Vaseline has been applied to your gloves, it’s incredibly difficult to remove. Even after multiple washes, traces of the petroleum jelly can linger, making it almost impossible to restore your gloves to their original condition. This residue not only affects grip but also attracts dirt and debris, further compromising the gloves' performance.
🎯 Do Professional Goalkeepers Really Use Vaseline?
Yes, it’s true that some professional goalkeepers have admitted to using Vaseline to enhance their grip in extreme conditions. However, it’s important to note that these professionals operate under very different circumstances compared to amateur or semi-pro goalkeepers.
Here are some notable examples:
✅ André Onana (Manchester United & Cameroon International)
Onana has been rumored to apply Vaseline to his gloves, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. As a top-level goalkeeper, he has the luxury of switching gloves frequently, meaning the potential long-term damage caused by Vaseline is not a major concern for him.
✅ Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid & Belgium International)
Courtois is another elite goalkeeper who has been linked to experimenting with Vaseline, especially during rainy matches to ensure a better grip on the ball. Like Onana, Courtois can afford to use multiple pairs of gloves throughout a season.
✅ David de Gea (Former Manchester United Goalkeeper)
De Gea has also reportedly dabbled with this trick in the past. Given the fast-paced nature of the Premier League, where conditions can change quickly, small tweaks like this can provide an edge—at least temporarily.
🧼 The Best Alternative: Proper Glove Care for Long-Lasting Grip
If you want to maintain the best possible grip on your gloves without resorting to Vaseline, proper glove care is the way to go. Taking care of your gloves ensures they stay in top condition for longer, providing consistent performance without the need for risky shortcuts.
Here’s how to keep your gloves in top shape:
✅ Wash Your Gloves Regularly
Dirt and sweat can build up on your gloves after each use, which reduces grip over time. Washing them properly after every game or training session helps remove debris and restore the latex’s natural stickiness.
👉 Pro Tip: Wash your gloves by hand using lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Gently rub the palms to remove dirt and allow them to air dry naturally.
✅ Keep Them Damp for Better Grip
Dry gloves can lose their tackiness, which affects grip. Slightly dampening your gloves before a match or during breaks helps reactivate the latex’s natural grip.
✅ Use Glove Cleaners (Optional)
If you want to go the extra mile, invest in a specialized goalkeeper glove cleaner that’s designed to clean and revitalize the latex without causing damage.
✅ Store Your Gloves Properly
After cleaning, store your gloves in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or extreme heat, which can weaken the latex over time.
🚫 Vaseline: A Short-Term Fix with Long-Term Consequences
While Vaseline may seem like a quick fix to enhance grip, it’s far from an ideal solution—especially when it comes at the cost of ruining your gloves. The reality is that proper glove maintenance is the best and most reliable way to ensure your gloves maintain optimal performance and durability.
If you’re serious about keeping your gloves in top condition and maximizing their lifespan, ditch the Vaseline and focus on regular cleaning, proper storage, and occasional reactivation of the latex. Your gloves—and your wallet—will thank you in the long run.
🧤 Final Verdict: Stick to Proper Glove Care for Maximum Performance
While Vaseline might seem like a secret weapon used by some professionals, the risks far outweigh the rewards for most goalkeepers. Instead of gambling with the longevity of your gloves, take the time to care for them properly. This approach will not only keep your gloves in peak condition but also ensure that your grip remains consistent throughout the season.
Looking to level up your glove care routine? Start by washing and maintaining them regularly to keep your gloves performing like new!