When it comes to polo, every detail counts. From your mallet to your saddle, precision and quality can make all the difference. Gloves are no exception. At Ona Polo, we offer gloves crafted from both premium leather and advanced synthetic materials, each designed to cater to the unique needs of players. So, which should you choose? Let’s break it down.
Why polo gloves matter: Grip, protection and control
Polo gloves are not a luxury accessory — they are an essential piece of safety and performance equipment. During a chukka, your hands are in constant contact with two critical control surfaces: the mallet in your dominant hand and the reins in the other. Without a purpose-built glove, sweat, rain, or simple fatigue can compromise your grip at the worst possible moment — mid-swing at full gallop.
The mallet hand faces the greatest demands. Repetitive impact from striking the ball transmits vibration through the cane shaft directly into the palm and fingers. Over the course of a match, unprotected hands develop blisters, calluses, and in more serious cases, bruising or fractures from stray mallet-on-mallet contact. The rein hand, meanwhile, needs a balance of tactile sensitivity and friction — enough grip to communicate with the horse through subtle pressure, but not so much bulk that feel is lost.
“I’ve seen too many players underestimate their gloves and pay for it with blisters by the second chukka. Your gloves are the interface between you and the game — they affect every swing, every rein aid, every turn. Getting them right is not optional.”
– Alejandra Falkinhoff, Ona Polo CEO: 25 years in polo equipment design
Some players prefer to wear only a single glove on the mallet hand, while others wear a pair for full coverage. This is largely a matter of personal preference: a pair offers consistent grip and protection across both hands, while a single right-hand glove maximises rein sensitivity in the left. At competitive and high-goal levels, wearing a pair is standard practice, particularly with protective models that include carbon fibre knuckle reinforcement.
Whatever your choice, a polo glove must deliver three things: a secure, non-slip grip on the mallet cane; adequate protection against impact and abrasion; and a close, second-skin fit that preserves dexterity and feel. The sections below will help you identify which Ona glove matches your playing style, conditions, and protection requirements.
The leather Line-Up
Speed XT, Carbon Pro V2, and Power Gloves
Our textured leather gloves are engineered for durability and performance. The Speed XT, Carbon Pro V2, and Power gloves feature a textured finish that offers exceptional grip. Whether you’re gripping the mallet under intense play or handling reins with precision, these gloves deliver confidence in every movement.
Speed XT
Carbon Pro V2
Power
Technical Advantage: All leather gloves are made from technical leathers that are water-repellent and breathable, assisting in withstanding various weather conditions and managing sweat effectively.
Grip Factor: The textured leather provides a secure, non-slip hold, even during high-speed chukkas.
Durability: Leather, known for its resilience, ages beautifully while maintaining its strength.
Comfort: These gloves mould to your hands over time, offering a custom-fit feel.
Key technologies: Pittards leather, Gripster™ and carbon fibre protection
Every Ona leather glove is built on Pittards technical leather, a performance-grade material engineered specifically for sport applications. Unlike conventional leather, Pittards hides undergo a proprietary tanning process that bonds water-repellent and breathable properties directly into the fibre structure, rather than applying a surface coating. The result is a leather that resists moisture from the inside (sweat) and outside (rain) without sacrificing the natural softness and moulding characteristics that make leather the preferred material for precision grip.
The palm surface of textured models (Speed XT, Carbon Pro V2, and Power) features Ona’s exclusive Gripster™ enhancing technology, a micro-textured, three-dimensional pattern applied to the leather at the atomic level. This texture creates thousands of tiny contact points between glove and mallet cane, producing a non-slip hold that actually improves under pressure. The harder you grip, the more the texture engages. This is a fundamentally different approach to grip compared with rubberised coatings used by other manufacturers, which tend to wear smooth within a few matches.
For players who need maximum hand protection, the Carbon Pro V2 adds anatomically designed carbon fibre inserts over the knuckles, index finger, and back of the thumb, the three areas most exposed to impact during ride-offs, hooking, and accidental mallet contact. Carbon fibre offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio: its high stiffness absorbs and distributes impact energy across the shell rather than transmitting it to the bone, while adding virtually no bulk to the glove. Additional TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) padding and Performance Air Mesh across the back of the hand provide secondary impact absorption and ventilation.
“When we introduced the original Carbon Pro, it was the first protective glove ever designed specifically for polo. The V2 takes that concept further with improved carbon coverage on the index finger and thumb, the two points players told us were still vulnerable after a season of high-goal play.” – Alejandra Falkinhoff, Ona Polo CEO
All Weather V2 Gloves
The All Weather V2 glove brings a refined touch with its smooth leather featuring peccary embossing. This design balances elegance with practicality, perfect for players who demand sophistication without sacrificing functionality.
AW V2 Red
AW V2 Yellow
Elegant Design: The smooth leather and subtle embossing add a stylish edge.
All-Conditions Ready: Performs beautifully in various weather conditions, making it a versatile choice.
Soft Yet Strong: The smooth finish enhances comfort while retaining durability.
Technical Advantage: Like other leather gloves, it features water-repellent and breathable properties for optimal weather resistance and sweat management.
The synthetic selection
All Weather Storm Gloves
Crafted for the unpredictable, the All Weather Storm gloves utilize advanced synthetic materials to ensure your performance never falters—come rain, shine, or anything in between.
AW Storm Blue
AW Storm Pink
Weather Resistance: Designed to withstand wet conditions without compromising grip.
**Lightweight Feel: Synthetic materials are lighter than leather, offering a very close contact with the mallet, ideal for precise handling.
Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and quick to dry, perfect for busy players.
Eco Gloves
Our Eco gloves represent the future—combining sustainability with performance. Made from eco-friendly materials, these gloves prove you can play hard and care for the planet at the same time.
Sustainability: Made with environmentally conscious materials, perfect for eco-minded players.
Comfortable Fit: Flexible and breathable, keeping your hands cool during intense games.
Affordable Luxury: Offers excellent performance at a more accessible price point.
How to find your polo glove size
A polo glove should fit like a second skin, snug across the palm and fingers with no excess material bunching at the fingertips, but not so tight that it restricts flexion or cuts off circulation. Unlike casual leather gloves, which are sized by palm circumference, Ona polo gloves are sized by hand length: measure from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your palm (where the wrist begins) and compare to the chart below.
Ona Polo Glove Size Chart
| Size | Hand Length (cm) | Hand Length (in) | Typical Fit |
| S (Small) | 17 – 18 cm | 6.7” – 7.1” | Women / smaller hands |
| M (Medium) | 18 – 19 cm | 7.1” – 7.5” | Most women / smaller men |
| L (Large) | 19 – 20 cm | 7.5” – 7.9” | Most men |
| XL (Extra Large) | 20 – 21 cm | 7.9” – 8.3” | Larger hands |
Sizing tips:
Measure both hands, your dominant (mallet) hand may be slightly larger. If you fall between two sizes, choose the smaller one for leather gloves (the material will stretch slightly and mould to your hand after a few chukkas) or the larger one for synthetic models (which have less give). If you are unsure, Ona’s customer service team can help you find the right fit before you order.
Polo glove quick comparison
Not sure which model suits your game? Use this table to compare all six Ona glove models at a glance.
| Model | Material | Protection | Best For | Weather | Grip Type |
| Carbon Pro V2 | Pittards leather + carbon fibre | Maximum (carbon knuckle, TPU padding) | High-goal, competitive players | Water-repellent | Gripster™ textured |
| Speed XT | Pittards textured leather | Standard | Players prioritising grip and feel | Water-repellent | Gripster™ textured |
| Power | Pittards textured leather | Standard | All-round training and match play | Water-repellent | Gripster™ textured |
| All Weather V2 | Smooth leather (peccary embossing) | Standard | Players wanting a refined feel | All-conditions | Smooth grip |
| All Weather Storm | Advanced synthetic | Standard | Wet and unpredictable conditions | High weather resistance | Synthetic grip |
| Eco | Eco-friendly synthetic | Standard | Eco-conscious players, casual play | Good | Synthetic grip |
Note: Prices shown are indicative in GBP for a pair. Single right-hand gloves are available at a lower price point. Check individual product pages for current pricing and colour options.
The Verdict: Leather or Synthetic?
Choosing between leather and synthetic comes down to your playing style, priorities, and conditions:
- For Traditionalists: Leather gloves like the Speed XT and All Weather V2 offer timeless quality and superior grip, perfect for players who value classic craftsmanship.
- For the Pragmatists: Synthetic gloves such as the All Weather Storm and Eco gloves provide low-maintenance options with modern features like weather resistance and sustainability.
- For the Versatile Player: You don’t have to choose just one! Many Ona Polo players switch between leather and synthetic gloves depending on the weather or type of match.
At Ona Polo, we understand that no two players are alike. That’s why we’ve designed a range of gloves to suit every hand and every style. Explore our collection and find the perfect pair to elevate your game—whether you’re riding into the storm or chasing sunny skies.
How to care for your polo gloves
The right care routine can double the life of your polo gloves and keep them performing at their best throughout the season. Leather and synthetic gloves require different approaches.
Leather glove care (Carbon Pro V2, Speed XT, Power, All Weather V2)
After each match or practice session, wipe the palm and fingers with a slightly damp, clean cloth to remove sweat, salt, and dirt. Never soak leather gloves in water or put them in a washing machine — excessive moisture breaks down the fibre structure and causes the leather to stiffen and crack. Allow the gloves to air-dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, radiators, or heated boot dryers. While drying, slip them on briefly every hour or so to help them retain their natural shape and the moulded fit to your hand.
If the leather begins to feel dry or stiff between uses, apply a thin layer of a specialist leather conditioner (the same products used for saddle care work well). Conditioning restores moisture to the fibres and keeps the material supple without affecting the Gripster™ texture. Store your gloves flat, ideally in a breathable cloth bag, and never crumple them inside a kit bag where they can be compressed and deformed.
Synthetic glove care (All Weather Storm, Eco)
Synthetic gloves are lower-maintenance by design. After use, rinse them gently under cool running water to remove sweat and grime, then lay them flat to air-dry. For a deeper clean, hand-wash with a small amount of mild soap and cool water, gently working the material without wringing. Synthetic materials dry faster than leather and are more resistant to moisture damage, but you should still avoid machine washing and tumble drying, which can degrade the stitching and elasticity over time.
When to replace your polo gloves
No glove lasts forever, and playing with worn-out gloves is both a performance and a safety risk. Look for these signs that it is time for a new pair: the grip texture on the palm has worn smooth; the leather has hardened and no longer moulds to your hand despite conditioning; stitching is fraying at the fingertips or thumb; or you notice your mallet slipping during play even in dry conditions. For regular players competing several times a week, expect to replace leather gloves every one to two seasons and synthetic gloves every season.
“A lot of players hang on to their favourite gloves long past the point where they should replace them. The grip is the first thing to go, and once it’s gone, no amount of conditioning brings it back. Fresh gloves make an immediate difference to your confidence on the mallet.” – Alejandra Falkinhoff, Ona Polo CEO
Whether you are a beginner preparing for your first chukka or a seasoned high-goal player seeking maximum knuckle protection, the right polo glove will transform your grip, confidence, and overall performance on the field. Ona Polo’s range, from the carbon-reinforced Carbon Pro V2 to the sustainable Eco glove, is trusted by professional players worldwide and backed by over 25 years of polo equipment innovation. Explore the full Ona Polo gloves collection to find the perfect match for your hand and your game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to wear gloves to play polo?
Yes. Polo gloves are considered essential equipment, not an optional accessory. They protect your hands from blisters, rein burns, and mallet impact while providing the grip you need to control both the mallet and the reins securely at speed. Most polo clubs and tournament organisers expect players to wear gloves during competitive play.
Should I wear one polo glove or a pair?
This is a matter of personal preference. Some players wear only a right-hand glove (the mallet hand) to maximise rein sensitivity in the left. Others wear a pair for consistent grip and full protection across both hands. At high-goal and professional levels, wearing a pair is standard practice, especially when using protective models like the Carbon Pro V2.
What is the difference between leather and synthetic polo gloves?
Leather polo gloves (such as the Speed XT, Carbon Pro V2, Power, and All Weather V2) offer superior grip, natural breathability, and a moulded fit that improves with use. They require more care but last longer with proper maintenance. Synthetic gloves (such as the All Weather Storm and Eco) are lighter, more weather-resistant, quicker to dry, and lower-maintenance, ideal for wet conditions or players who prefer minimal upkeep.
How long do polo gloves last?
Durability depends on how frequently you play and how well you care for your gloves. For a regular club player competing two to three times per week, a pair of leather gloves typically lasts one to two seasons. Synthetic gloves generally last around one season under the same usage. Proper care, wiping after use, air-drying, and conditioning leather periodically, significantly extends their lifespan.
Are carbon fibre polo gloves worth the investment?
For any player who has experienced a mallet or ball strike to the hand, the answer is an emphatic yes. The Carbon Pro V2’s carbon fibre inserts on the knuckles, index finger, and thumb absorb and distribute impact energy, dramatically reducing the risk of fractures and bone bruising. They are particularly valuable for high-goal players and anyone in competitive matches where ride-offs and hooking increase the chance of hand contact.
Can I use horse riding gloves for polo?
Standard equestrian riding gloves are not recommended for polo. While they provide adequate rein grip, they lack the reinforced palm texture needed for secure mallet control, the impact protection required for a contact sport, and the specific fit and material technologies (such as Gripster™ texturing) that polo gloves are engineered to deliver. Using riding gloves for polo compromises both performance and safety.
What size polo glove do I need?
Ona polo gloves are sized S, M, L, and XL based on hand length, measured from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your palm. Refer to the sizing section above or visit the Ona Polo sizing chart [link to /sizing-charts/] for detailed measurements. If you fall between sizes, choose the smaller size for leather (which stretches to fit) or the larger size for synthetic (which has less give).
