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Short finger sailing gloves, often called fingerless sailing gloves, give you grip on the sheets without losing the feel and dexterity you need to work the boat. With the thumb, index and middle fingers open, you can tie knots, adjust fittings and check your watch without taking a glove off.
For dinghy and keelboat racing, the Gill Pro and Gill Championship gloves are a popular choice, with reinforced palms built for hard sheeting. Zhik Elite gloves are a lightweight racing option for sailors who want maximum feel.
For cold weather, or when you need full protection for your fingers, take a look at our Long Finger Sailing Gloves. To see every fingerless and full finger glove we stock, explore all Sailing Gloves.
August 12, 2026 6 min read
Read MoreSome frequently asked questions that other customers have asked us about Short Finger Sailing Gloves.
Should I choose short finger or long finger sailing gloves?
Choose short finger sailing gloves, also known as fingerless gloves, if you want the most feel on the ropes and the freedom to tie knots, adjust fittings and use a watch or phone without taking them off. Choose long finger gloves for cold weather or for heavy sheet loads, where the extra protection on your fingertips matters more than dexterity.
Which fingers are cut short on short finger sailing gloves?
Most short finger sailing gloves leave the ends of the thumb, index and middle fingers open, and cover the ring and little fingers. Those two fingers take most of the wear when a sheet runs through your hand, while the three open fingers give you the dexterity to work shackles, cleats and knots.
Are short finger gloves good for dinghy sailing?
Yes, short finger gloves are the most popular choice for dinghy sailing in all but the coldest weather. Dinghy sailors are constantly adjusting sheets and control ropes, so the feel and dexterity of a short finger glove makes a real difference. The Gill Pro, Gill Championship and Zhik Elite are all popular choices in the dinghy park.
What size sailing gloves do I need?
Sailing gloves should fit snugly without restricting movement, as a loose glove will bunch up and wear out faster. Measure around the widest part of your hand, excluding the thumb, and check the brand’s size guide on the product page, as Gill and Zhik sizes differ slightly. If you are between sizes, go for the smaller one.
How long do short finger sailing gloves last?
Short finger sailing gloves typically last a season or two, depending on how often you sail and how hard the sheets are on them. The palms and the covered fingers wear first. Rinsing gloves in fresh water after each sail and drying them away from direct heat will help them last longer.
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