What size goalie gloves for a child? (table by age)
Arnaud Brossard
In short
To choose a child's goalkeeper glove size, measure their hand from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger, and rely on the measurement more than their age. Reference points: 16-17 cm = size 4, 17-18 cm = size 5, 18-19 cm = size 6; above 19 cm, they move to an adult size 7. Choose the size that corresponds to the measurement—never intentionally too large, as this causes a loss of ball control.
By Arnaud Brossard — goalkeeper for 15 years, founder of DENY GLOVES.
Size is the #1 criterion when equipping a young goalkeeper—even before model or price. A glove that is too big will twist on the hand, reduce ball control, and deform; a glove that is too small will compress the fingers. The good news: this can be sorted out in 30 seconds with a tape measure.
How to measure your child's hand
Take a flexible tape measure (or a string + a ruler). Measure the length of the hand from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger, with the hand open and fingers extended. Note the measurement in centimeters: this is what determines the size, much more reliable than age or category.
Size chart by measurement and age
| Hand measurement | Size | Category | Indicative age |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 – 17 cm | 4 | U9 – U10 | 8 – 10 years |
| 17 – 18 cm | 5 | U11 – U12 | 10 – 12 years |
| 18 – 19 cm | 6 | U13 | 12 – 13 years |
| 19 cm and up | 7 (adult) | U14 and + | 13 years and + |
The DENY ZERO ROOKIE covers sizes 4 to 6, from U9 to U13. Above 19 cm hand length, a young goalkeeper moves to size 7 of the adult DENY ZERO.
If your child's hand measures less than 16 cm, the ROOKIE does not yet go down far enough. It's better to know this before ordering: look for a junior pair from another brand, applying the same size and latex criteria.
Exact size or one size up?
The rule is simple: choose the size that corresponds to the hand measurement. The ROOKIE has a negative cut, so it naturally fits snugly: if the measurement falls exactly between two sizes, round down.
And never intentionally choose a glove that is much too large "so that it lasts another season": a glove that is too loose will twist, the ball will slip, and the child will lose control and confidence. A glove that fits correctly is what helps them progress.
My child is U12-U13: ROOKIE or ZERO?
It depends solely on the size of their hand, not their category. If their hand measures up to 19 cm, the ROOKIE size 6 is suitable. Beyond that, they need the size 7 of the adult DENY ZERO. Measure before ordering: at this age, two children of the same age can have two size differences.
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy a bigger size because the child is growing?
No. An oversized glove impairs control and deforms. Get the correct size now; you'll change to the next size when needed. It's like cleats.
My child is 10 years old but has large hands, what size?
Go by the measurement, not the age. If their hand measures 18 cm, take a size 6 even if they are "supposed" to be a 4 according to their age.
How do I know if the size is right once I receive it?
The fingertips should reach near the end of the glove without being crushed, and the glove should not twist on the hand. At DENY, you can exchange the size within 14 days if the gloves have not been used.
Do you know their size? Discover the DENY ZERO ROOKIE (€49, sizes 4 to 6) or consult our complete size guide. For all other choices: how to choose goalkeeper gloves for a child.