Is Using Grip Spray on Football Gloves Legal?

The Legality of Grip Spray on Football Gloves

In American football, having proper grip on the ball is essential. As the game has evolved, so has the equipment players use - especially gloves. Specialty gloves made specifically for football have become increasingly popular from youth leagues all the way up to the NFL. These gloves utilize advanced materials and coatings to help players grip the ball better.

This has raised questions around what can legally be applied to football gloves to enhance grip even further. In particular, the use of additional grip-boosting sprays has been a source of confusion in terms of rules and regulations. Here we'll break down the legality issues surrounding grip spray on football gloves at all levels of play.

Gloves and Grip in Football

First, it's important to understand why grip is so vital in football. Securing receptions, holding onto the ball when running, and protecting against fumbles all require solid grip. Losing control of the ball can easily change games - especially fumbles which often result in dramatic turnover of possession.

Modern football gloves utilize advanced man-made materials featuring special coatings and textures to maximize grip and overall handling of the ball. Brands market their latest gloves as having superior grip properties compared to past generations of equipment.

Some players look for even more grip advantage by applying additional substances like stickum or grip spray. This extra boost may seem minor, but can be the difference in completing a big play. However, sprays also have the potential to make gloves too sticky and actually hinder precise ball handling.

The NFHS Rules on Gloves and Grip Spray

The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) establishes and publishes competition rules followed by most high school football programs across the country. In terms of gloves and grip aids like spray, the NFHS rules are clear.

The gloves themselves can help enhance grip, but cannot contain any substance that transfers to the ball such as stickum. Additionally, no foreign substances can be applied to equipment to make them more tacky or sticky. This expressly prohibits the use of things like grip spray or stickum on gloves before or during games.

In summary, while modern gloves allow for approved materials and coatings to help grip, any type of additional grip enhancer applied to the gloves themselves is prohibited under NFHS rules.

NCAA Regulations on Grip Boosting Sprays

Moving up to collegiate football, the NCAA rule book contains similar restrictions around glove modifications and grip aids as the high school level. In the 2023 NCAA guidelines, gloves must meet strict product specs and cannot be tampered with or contaminated by foreign substances.

The same applies to the use of grip spray, stickum, or any additional material externally applied to try boosting glove tackiness. NCAA rules clearly state such substances cannot be used for the express purpose of enhancing grip and handling of the ball. Doing so would almost certainly result in in-game penalties or potential suspensions if repeatedly violating policies.

NFL Rules Against Grip Spray and Stickum

In the NFL rule book under section 3, article 4 regarding equipment, guidelines strictly prohibit the application of foreign or material substances to equipment that could potentially impact the game:

"Materials that enhance the performance or alter the equipment beyond its intended purpose are prohibited."

This applies directly to things like grip spray and stickum on gloves. In fact, the banning of stickum dates back to banning the product by name in 1980 under industry pressure. The NFL reacted to advantages gained by players essentially wearing adhesive on their hands and uniforms.

Now, rule 3-4-5 directly addresses gloves and any additional applied grip enhancers by stating grip increasing substances cannot be worn, applied, attached, or coated onto equipment including gloves.

Violating these rules against adhesive sprays or similar grip boosters can potentially result in ejection, fines, and game suspensions for repeat violations.

Weighing the Risks Versus Rewards

After seeing the clear rules across all levels of football against applying foreign grip enhancers to equipment, players must consider if trying to gain an extra edge is worth the risks.

No doubt an adhesive spray product can help stick to balls that might normally slip away. However, considering gloves already utilize advanced gripping properties, the minor advantage may not outweigh jeopardizing playing time and letting your teammates down.

Coaches, athletic programs, and referees also play key roles in enforcing equipment rules and making sure standards are followed across teams. Routine equipment checks should catch most violations from grip altering substances.

In the end, all players must make their own choices balancing risks and rewards around football glove grip aids. But with such clear rules set by major football governing bodies, expect penalties and consequences for those caught attempting to enhance glove tackiness beyond what’s inherently allowed from legally manufactured gloves.

FAQs

What exactly is grip spray?

Grip spray is an adhesive substance that can be applied to football gloves or hands to make them tackier. It enhances grip and reduces the chance of dropped balls. Common grip spray brands used in football include Stickum, Gloveskip, and Grip Boost.

Are football glove grip sprays legal in the NFL?

No, the NFL banned stickum by name in 1980 and modern rules strictly prohibit grip-enhancing substances from being applied to any equipment or uniforms. Using grip spray in an NFL game would likely result in penalties, ejection, or suspension.

Can you use glove grip spray in college football?

No. Like the NFL, NCAA football rules clearly forbid the use of foreign substances like grip spray for the purpose of enhancing handling and control of the ball. Referee equipment checks aim to prevent usage. If discovered, penalties or suspensions could be applied.

Are there youth leagues that allow grip spray on gloves?

Most youth football leagues follow high school rules set by the NFHS. These rules expressly prohibit gloves from being contaminated by foreign tacky substances. Youth players should expect penalties from referees for using grip aids like spray on gloves during games.