Aaron Rai is competing for one of the biggest victories of his career at the PGA Championship, but many golf fans are also quickly noticing another distinctive aspect of his game: the two gloves he wears on his hands. While most golfers use only one glove, Rai has maintained this unusual style for nearly his entire life and believes it is crucial to his success on the course.
A Consistent Performer
The English golfer has quietly established himself as one of the most consistent players in professional golf over the past two years. Rai has remained within the world's top 50 rankings and has regularly challenged some of the sport's biggest names. As his profile continues to rise, fans are increasingly curious about the habits that set him apart, particularly his unconventional choice to wear two gloves during rounds.
The Origin of the Two Gloves
Rai's story behind the gloves dates back to his childhood. Speaking to Golf Monthly, he explained that he first started using two gloves when he was around eight years old after being sent a pair. What began as a simple habit gradually became something he could not play without.
"I just happened to be given these two gloves, the guy who actually makes them sent a pair over," Rai said via Golf Monthly. "Then, a few weeks down the line, my dad forgot to put the two gloves in the bag so I had to play with one. It was terrible. I couldn't play, I couldn't feel the grip, so I've always stuck with the two gloves ever since."
Why Two Gloves Work for Rai
For Rai, the gloves are not about fashion or trying to look different. He believes they help him control the golf club better and provide a much stronger grip during his swing. While most golfers wear only one glove on their non-dominant hand, Rai feels more comfortable with both hands covered during full shots. However, he does not keep them on for every part of the game. Like many other players, he removes his gloves while putting to enhance his feel for the putter. He also uses just one glove for bunker shots.
The gloves Rai uses are made by MacWet, a company known for producing gloves designed for wet weather conditions. On its official website, the company states that the gloves become even grippier in rain, helping players maintain control of the club in difficult weather.
Other Unusual Habits
Rai is also known for a few other unusual habits on the golf course. He famously uses iron covers, something many professional golfers avoid. But among all his unique routines, the two gloves remain the first thing fans notice.
Background and Family
Away from golf, Rai has a strong family background connected to different parts of the world. He was born and raised in Wolverhampton and now splits his time between England and Jacksonville, Florida. Rai represents England in golf, but his family roots extend further. His father comes from an Indian family, while his mother moved to England from Kenya.
