How to Size Waterski Gloves
The short answer
Measure two things: hand circumference (around your knuckles, not including your thumb) and hand length (base of palm to tip of middle finger). Match the larger of the two measurements to the size chart below. If you're between sizes, size down for tournament/locked-in feel and size up for recreational/forgiving fit.
Why glove sizing matters more than you think
A waterski glove that's too loose slides on the handle and tears your palm. A glove that's too tight cuts circulation, fatigues your hands, and gets uncomfortable inside the first set. Tournament-grade gloves like THE APEX are pre-curved and built to lock in once you pull on the handle — but only if the size is right.
Step-by-step measuring guide
What you need
- A flexible measuring tape (or a piece of string + ruler)
- Your dominant hand (skiers usually grip with both, but measure the larger hand to be safe)
Measurement 1: Hand circumference
Open your hand flat. Wrap the tape around the widest part of your palm, just below your knuckles (do not include your thumb). Note the measurement in inches.
Measurement 2: Hand length
Measure from the base of your palm (where your wrist crease starts) to the tip of your middle finger. Note the measurement in inches.
PIGOSKI sizing chart
| Size | Hand circumference | Hand length |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 6.5″ – 7″ | up to 6.5″ |
| S | 7″ – 7.75″ | 6.5″ – 7″ |
| M | 7.75″ – 8.5″ | 7″ – 7.5″ |
| L | 8.5″ – 9.25″ | 7.5″ – 8″ |
| XL | 9.25″ – 10″ | 8″ – 8.5″ |
| XXL | 10″+ | 8.5″+ |
If you're between sizes
Size down (tighter fit) if…
- You run the slalom course and need a locked-in feel
- You prefer no slip between your hand and the glove
- Your previous glove felt loose and shifted on the handle
Size up (looser fit) if…
- You ski recreationally without heavy course load
- You prefer a more forgiving feel
- Your previous glove felt restrictive after long sessions
Model-specific notes
THE APEX (Kevlar): Pre-curved and broken in from the first pull. True to size for most. The Kevlar palm holds shape well, so size down only if you want a tighter tournament feel.
ULTRA GRIP (Synthetic): True to size with no break-in required. The synthetic palm is more forgiving than Kevlar, so most skiers fit comfortably in their measured size.
GMS (Lightweight): Designed thinner for tactile feel on trick handle passes. True to size; do not size down further or you will lose the tactile benefit.
Frequently asked questions
What if my hand circumference and length point to different sizes?
Size up to match the larger measurement. Your palm size matters more than finger length for grip feel under load.
I have long fingers but a narrow palm. What size am I?
Match the hand circumference, not the length. The glove needs to grip your palm correctly under heavy slalom load; finger length is secondary.
Do PIGOSKI gloves stretch out over time?
Synthetic gloves (ULTRA GRIP, GMS) relax slightly with use. Kevlar gloves (APEX) hold their shape and pre-curve. Account for this when choosing between two sizes — the synthetic will loosen, the Kevlar will not.
Can I return gloves that don't fit?
Yes. PIGOSKI accepts returns within 30 days as long as the gloves haven't been used on the water. Try them on dry at home first.
What if I'm shopping for someone else?
Trace their dominant hand on paper and measure the circumference and length from the tracing. This is more accurate than guessing.
Built by professional waterskiers.
World Records. World Champions. Tournament gear at an honest price.