The palms of your goalkeeping gloves are equipped with a layer of latex — often referred to as “German Latex”. This influences how much grip and control you have of the ball. So it’s the single most important feature of your gloves.
But there are so many different names given to goalkeeper glove latex types, and it’s very difficult to tell them apart. So here’s everything you need to know about the main types of GK glove latex.
Super Soft 
An entry-level latex type used to produce the majority of goalkeeper gloves. The thickness (and therefore protection) varies between different gloves. It’s a slight upgrade to the similar “Starter Soft”, “Soft Pro”, and “Soft Advanced”.
Positives
- Offers adequate grip to a beginner (or Junior goalkeeper).
- Performs well without dampening.
- Stands up reasonably well to wearing.
- Cheap to buy.
Negatives
- Lacks the stickiness of higher grade latex types.
- Wears out faster than more expensive latex types.
Mega Grip 
This is the most common ‘high performance’ glove latex. The material is a little bit harder than Giga Grip (see below). It’s usually used to produce coloured gloves.
Positives
- Grip is notably better than Super Soft.
- Performs well when lightly dampened.
- Cheaper than other similar latex types (e.g. Giga Grip).
Negatives
- Generally performs worse in wet weather than in dry conditions.
- Wears out faster than more expensive latex types, and even some (cheaper) Super Soft gloves.
Giga Grip 
This premium glove latex type offers excellent gripping properties and softness. It was once considered pro-level, until Contact latex superseded it. Giga latex usually performs best when its slightly damp.
Positives
- Superior grip to cheaper latex types (it’s more ‘tacky’).
- Offers high absorption of shots.
- Performs well in all weather conditions.
- High durability — particularly if you buy the improved “Quartz” latex.
Negatives
- Due to the stickier latex the gloves collect dirt and need more frequent washing.
- The higher quality commands a premium. Giga latex gloves can be expensive.
Contact Latex 
This is the top-tier latex type, sometimes referred to as “Supreme Latex”. It is the go to match-day latex for many professionals, and is used on the palms of the Rectrix 1.0 Goalkeeping Gloves. As with all premium latex types, it always comes with a removable plastic film over the palms.
Positives
- Superior grip to all other latex types, due to its tacky surface.
- High performance in any conditions — wet or dry, turf or grass.
- Excellent shot absorption.
- High durability (comparable to Giga latex).
Negatives
- Due to the stickier latex the gloves collect dirt and need more frequent washing.
- It’s a top-grade latex, and is therefore more expensive than other types.
For Contact latex gloves without the premium price tag, check out Rectrix 1.0 goalkeeper gloves. They cost much less than many other gloves equipped with inferior latex. Or check out our Rectrix 1.0 Gloves Review.
Goalkeeper Glove Latex — Words of Advice
When deciding on your goalkeeper glove latex type, consider the following four attributes:
- Grip: provided by softness.
- Durability: provided by hardness.
- Protection: provided by thickness.
- Control: provided by thinness.
You may value some attributes more than others. But generally speaking, the more you spend on your gloves, the more of an “all rounder” you’ll get.
While you’re deciding on the right latex type also read my goalkeeper glove cuts guide and top goalkeeper gloves list. And if you’re interested in prolonging the life of your favourite gloves, check out my goalkeeper glove care guide.