Many opinions exist regarding exercise, including the tools needed to maximize a workout. One such debate revolves around the use of kettlebell gloves vs. chalk. But what are these workout accessories, and how do they assist with your training?
Kettlebell gloves and chalk absorb the sweat from your hands during training while preventing calluses and blisters from forming. However, kettlebell gloves don’t always stop sweat from spreading to your fingers. Some gloves provide wrist support, while chalk adds stability to your workout.
So, you’re still unsure which one is the best match for you and your workout regime? No problem, that’s what we’re here for! Keep reading to find out which training aids will benefit you the most!
Which Works Best – Kettlebell Gloves Or Chalk?
Several different gym equipment and accessories exist to help you, but we can’t always say that one is necessarily better than the other. And such is the case with kettlebell gloves and chalk. Although they share the same way they function and their purpose, the differences set them apart. Knowing this is crucial to understanding which one works best for you.
Should You Use Kettlebell Gloves?
Kettlebell gloves, also known as weightlifting gloves, are used for various weight training exercises.
Generally, you don’t need gloves for a good workout session; they’re more personal preference. However, gloves with wraps can provide you with much-needed wrist support, decreasing the risk of wrist injuries.
Kettlebell gloves come in nylon, neoprene, and leather. Several gloves also come with a silicone grip. It’s best to avoid using these as they provide too much grip, preventing the kettlebell from sliding through your palm, which is necessary for specific movements.
Can You Use Chalk Instead Of Kettlebell Gloves?
Chalk is necessary for people prone to sweaty palms because it absorbs the moisture from your hands. It allows you to better grip kettlebells, barbells, dumbbells, etc.
This does not mean you should always use chalk, especially if you don’t sweat that much. Instead, reserve it for your final sets or reps (if you’re struggling).
Chalk can also help you fix your form or technique flaws while training. For instance, you might be gripping too tightly, or your grip placement may be wrong.
Please note: Chalk is banned from most gyms (unless you train at a powerlifting, weightlifting, or cross-fit gym) because it’s messy, dusty, and can pollute the air. You might have to sneak it in if you decide to use chalk. You should bring it in a tight container and try not to make a mess while using it.
Comparison Between Kettlebell Gloves And Chalk
Kettlebell gloves and chalk have apparent similarities and differences, but there is far more to them that you should be conscious of before investing in either option.
The following table compares them in great detail:
| Kettlebell gloves | Chalk | |
| Purpose | Gloves provide you with wrist support and protection during workouts. | Chalk absorbs the moisture on your palms and fingers, which aids in maintaining a correct grip. |
| Support | Most kettlebell gloves enclose the wrist as well, which in return becomes extra ligaments and tendons supporting the wrist while it bends. | Chalk does not provide support for the wrist. |
| Grip | It may not be so good for improved grip, especially once the hands start to sweat. | Chalk absorbs moisture from your hands, allowing for a better grip. However, removing too much moisture will decrease the grip. Therefore, finding the right balance will take a couple of times. |
| Protection | The kettlebell gloves prevent blisters by acting like a protective layer between your hands and the weight load. Also, by giving wrist support, the gloves decrease wrist injuries. | When you use chalk on your hands, it becomes a protective layer preventing blisters from forming. |
| Maximizing Training | Lifting heavy weights puts pressure on your hands, and the kettlebell gloves help relieve it, allowing you to go beyond your hands’ limitations. | Chalk allows you to lift heavier because it improves your grip. |
| Exercises | Benching. | Benching, pulling, and pressing exercises. |
| Price | The price ranges from $16 to $50. However, the prices are subject to change according to the brand, quality, and style. | The price range is between $11 and $20, depending on the brand. |
Which Is Best For You: Kettlebell Gloves Or Chalk?
Tabulated below are the benefits and drawbacks of kettlebell gloves and chalk.
| Kettlebell Gloves | Chalk | |
| Advantages | Improve grip on weights Relives the pressure put on your hands Support the wrist It helps you in pulling exercises | Improved performance with open and closed grip Increases friction for better grip You can use chalk for all exercises Helps with exercise form May prevent calluses and blisters Approved for use in competition |
| Disadvantages | May alter kettlebell movements. Not very durable if the material is not of good quality Certain materials are not appropriate for gripping a kettlebellKettlebell gloves may not stop sweat from spreading to your fingers, resulting in a looser grip | Can get all over clothes Chalk is banned from some gyms May not prevent calluses if your technique is poor It can provide too much grip and cause blisters |
The table shows that both kettlebell gloves and chalk have several advantages and disadvantages.
To keep your hands safe from calluses and blisters and benefit from wrist support during exercise, you should invest in a pair of gloves.
However, if you wish to increase your ability to hold a kettlebell or other equipment, we suggest investing in some chalk.
Can You Use Kettlebell Gloves And Chalk Together?
Many might assume that using kettlebell gloves and chalk during your workout is like combining the best of both worlds. You’d be protecting your hands from skin-related injuries while maintaining your grip, right? Not quite. You see, chalk does not stick to kettlebell glove material. As such, it does nothing to improve your grip.
Conclusion
When deciding between both options, be mindful of the following: Kettlebell gloves are designed to protect your hands from calluses and blisters, which may be caused by improper technique. Chalk, on the other hand, is used for improving your grip. While it may prevent some wear and tear while training, it’s not guaranteed.
Lastly, while you may be tempted to combine the two (expecting to reap the benefits from both), doing so will only hinder your ability to carry out your training session.
References
- https://www.livestrong.com/article/17819-benefits-wearing-weight-lifting-gloves/
- https://www.livestrong.com/article/415659-what-are-the-pros-cons-of-putting-chalk-on-hands-when-lifting-weights/
- https://journals.lww.com/nsca-scj/Abstract/2016/06000/A_Review_of_the_Efficacy_of_Weight_Training_Aids.2.aspx
- https://youtu.be/FlDiwYgIlp8
