Looking for a new pair of goalkeeper gloves? Unsure what to buy, or how much to spend? You’ve come to the right place. In this goalkeeper glove guide I’ve list my current top pairs for 2022, followed by a detailed guide as to what features you should look out for when shopping for GK gloves. So here’s the top 10 goalkeeper gloves I can recommend right now. The following list is by no means extensive — but it’s sure to give every goalkeeper an option within their price range.   1. Rectrix 1.0 (White & Black) Exceptional grip & comfort | Perfect for all abilities | High durability ..read more

Very few footballers have the inclination to become a goalkeeper in the first place, let alone master the role. That’s partly because goalkeeping, among many other things, requires an immense amount of bravery — which the majority of players do not have. Goalkeepers of any age or level have to be brave enough to take on huge responsibilities as well as tackle the mental and physical challenges that come with the role. The question is, are you brave enough?   Are you ready to take on new skills and big responsibilities? By becoming a Keeper you embark on an journey where you’ll learn (and ..read more

As a Goalkeeper you’re frequently called upon to make difficult game-changing decisions. The ultimate aim is to “get it right” in as many scenarios as possible. Therefore it’s highly important to sharpen your decision making skills and learn from past experiences. So what are the toughest decisions Goalkeepers must make in games?   Handling Technique Goalkeepers must frequently decide, in an instant, what type of handling technique to use. The four main handling techniques or “hand shapes” are: Scoop (or “Ramp”): for low-driven shots Cup (or “Basket”): for shots around the mid-drift W’s ..read more

There’s a huge list of attributes every top Goalkeeper needs to have. But what is it that Goalkeeper Scouts specifically look for? How does one Keeper stand out from the rest?   Why Are Some GKs Scouted, But Not Others? As a teenager I trained alongside many Goalkeepers at differing levels. Some played for the likes of Crystal Palace, Leyton Orient, and Colchester United. A few had previously been on the books for Premier League youth teams, prior to being released. Others, such as myself, had always played at local league level and nothing more than that. But the truth is, it was often d ..read more

In the modern era of football there’s an increasing expectation for Goalkeepers to have “outfield” attributes in their repertoire. In some cases Keepers are encouraged to push higher up the pitch to take on the role of another defender, and to assist the outfield build-up play. This is known as the ‘Sweeper Keeper’.   What Exactly Is The Sweeper Keeper? Simply put, a Sweeper Keeper is a Goalkeeper that becomes an extra defender at points in a game, acting as an eleventh outfield player. A Sweeper Keeper regularly pushes high up the pitch in order to control the space behind their defence ..read more

Goalkeepers aren’t only reliant on their hands. The ability to execute quick, sharp footsteps is one of the reasons that Keepers are able to get to shots and crosses to begin with. Hence why coaches always emphasise the importance of good footwork. So how exactly does footwork fit into a Goalkeeper’s role? And how can Keepers improve their footwork?   The Need For Good Footwork Goalkeepers must adjust their feet to find the optimal position in any match situation, so that they’re ready to be called into action at any point. The following match scenarios require excellent footwork. Corners ..read more

Goalkeeping is a complex position that requires physicality, a strong mentality, and a highly unique set of skills. While every good Goalkeeper must be able to produce a range of different saves, there’s a lot more to Keeping than just technical ability. A top Goalkeeper needs to be brave, an excellent communicator, focused, determined, and willing to endure the criticisms and disappointments that come with the job. The very best Keepers are not only equipped with the know-how and right mindset — but also the fitness and strength levels required as a footballer. Here’s what traits and skills m ..read more

Are you looking for 5-a-side goalkeeping tips? You’ve come to the right place. Goalkeeping is undoubtedly the most specialised position in 11-a-side football, and the same is true for 5-a-side. Only this time there are different rules, more close range shots to deal with, and an lot more action per minute than you’re ever likely to experience on a full-size pitch. There’s no doubt that Goalkeepers can make or break a 5-a-side team. So let’s run through all key aspects needed for Goalkeepers to succeed at 5-a-side football, with tips for what you can do to improve your performance.   Posit ..read more

While you’re shopping around for the best pair of goalkeeper gloves there’s no doubt you’ll hear a lot about “glove cuts”. So what are goalkeeper glove cuts? And what type should you choose? In a nut shell, goalkeeper glove cuts describe the way the materials — the latex palms and backhand — have been stitched together. It’s as simple as that. Your glove cut can impact your level of comfort, flexibility and “feeling” of the ball. However, your chosen cut is largely a matter of preference. The trick is to experiment until you find the brand/cut combination that feels right for you. In this post ..read more

The ability to frequently pull off an unbelievable, seemingly impossible, reaction save is what separates a good goalkeeper from a great goalkeeper. It’s those sharp reflex saves that enable keepers to dent the league table over the course of a season. Some keepers were born with excellent reflexes and a natural “instinct” for reacting to hard-drilled or point-blank shots — others need to work at it. But even if your reactions are relatively slow you can vastly improve through regular practice, specialist reflex training drills, and by incorporating various alternative methods into your goalke ..read more