Football guide
Youth Football Glove Size Chart by Hand Measurement
Youth football glove sizing using hand circumference and length, with brand-chart caveats and catch-and-flex fit checks.
Short answer
Best next step
Check the table, then confirm the brand chart.
Step 1
Find the likely size range
Swipe the table left to see every column.
| Nike youth size | Hand measurements | Fit note |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 7-7.5 in around; 6-6.25 in long | Nike-specific starting range; do not transfer it to another brand. |
| Medium | 7.5-7.75 in around; 6.25-6.5 in long | Check both measurements and the exact glove instructions. |
| Large | 7.75-8 in around; 6.5-6.75 in long | Move to an adult chart if the hand falls outside the youth range. |
Source context: The numeric rows reproduce Nike's current kids' youth American-football glove chart. They are a Nike starting point, not a universal conversion; another brand or glove line may use different measurements and ranges.
Youth small, medium, and large are not universal hand sizes. Nike's current chart uses hand circumference plus palm-to-middle-finger length, while Under Armour tells shoppers to compare hand length and circumference and use the larger result on its chart. Measure first, then stay with the instructions for the exact glove being considered.
A chart match is only the starting size. With both gloves on, the player should be able to spread the fingers, make a fist, receive a ball, and secure it without loose palm fabric folding or the fingertips pulling tight. If the two hands measure differently, fit the larger hand rather than forcing it into the smaller label.
Editorial note
We use these guides to narrow the starting range. Before you buy, compare that range with the exact brand chart, hands-on fit checks, and current sport rules. Read more about how our sizing works.
Spot a range that looks off, or a league rule we should mention? Tell us — corrections make these guides better for every parent.
Step 2
Measure the hand, then test a catch
- 1. Measure both hands. Wrap a flexible tape snugly around the knuckles with the fingers together and leave the thumb out.
- 2. Measure from the base of the palm at the wrist to the tip of the middle finger, following the exact brand's diagram.
- 3. Use the larger hand and compare every requested measurement with the chart for the exact glove model.
- 4. Try both gloves and test finger spread, a firm fist, and several catches before keeping the size.
Step 3
Validate the fit before you shop
Good reasons
When to try the next glove size
- Either required measurement sits above the current size on the exact model chart.
- The fingertips pull against the ends or the player cannot spread the fingers and close the hand normally.
- The next size removes pressure without leaving folds across the palm or sliding during a catch.
Avoid these
Common mistakes
- Choosing youth small, medium, or large from age instead of measuring the hand.
- Copying Nike ranges to an Under Armour, adidas, Grip Boost, or other glove chart.
- Buying growth room that lets the palm bunch or the glove move independently of the hand.
Parent tip
Bring the game ball to the try-on when possible; a glove can feel fine at rest and still bunch or pull during an actual catch.
Ready to shop?
Compare gloves picks
Confirm the exact model's chart and fit before ordering football gear.
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When the checks agree
Choose a model, then confirm the size
Use the range above as a starting point, then recheck the exact product's brand chart before ordering.
Compare gloves picksFAQ
What youth football glove size does my child need?
Measure hand circumference and palm-to-middle-finger length, then use the chart for the exact glove. Age and an everyday winter-glove label are not reliable conversions.
Should football gloves fit tight?
They should lie close to the palm and fingers without painful pressure or restricted movement. Reject a size that bunches, slides, pulls hard at the fingertips, or stops the player from opening and closing the hand.
What if the two hand measurements suggest different sizes?
Follow the manufacturer's instruction. When the chart calls for both measurements, fit the larger result and confirm the glove still stays smooth through the palm during a catch.
Provenance
Sources used for this sizing guide
We measure hand circumference and palm-to-middle-finger length, compare both with the exact glove chart, and finish with a catch-and-flex check on the larger hand.
Nike
ManufacturerSupports: Nike youth glove ranges; Hand circumference measurement; Hand length measurement
Reviewed August 2026
Under Armour
ManufacturerSupports: Brand specific glove chart; Hand length measurement; Hand circumference measurement; Larger measurement priority
Reviewed August 2026
Know your child's starting size before you shop.
Pick the sport and gear, then add the measurements that matter. You'll get a practical starting range, fit checks, and what to avoid.