An article of apparel is disclosed that includes a base portion for contacting a hand and a protective portion for providing cushioning for the hand. Seams that join the various elements of the base portion are located away from the portion of the apparel that contacts the palmar surface of the hand, thereby enhancing comfort. In addition, the base portion forms a pocket between the first and second digits that receives a portion of the protective portion, thereby decreasing peak compressive loads on the hand and between the first and second digits.