Considering how to keep your hands safe, it can be of great help to know the various type of gloves in the market. You could be working in healthcare, in construction, food service, or just need gloves to go out in the garden, in the cleaner, or in the winter, with the right glove you have guaranteed comfort, safety and performance.
1. Disposable gloves
Disposable gloves are used as single-use items that protect against cross-contamination, as well as preserve hygiene. They are easy to carry, inexpensive, and are applied in myriads of industries such as in medical practice to food handling and cleaning.
Common types:
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Latex gloves: Latex gloves are made of natural rubber and are characterized by a high degree of flexibility, comfort, and tactile sensitivity and this is why they are so preferable in the medical and dental practice. Nevertheless, there are those who might be allergic to latex and, therefore, others such as nitrile or vinyl can be used.
- Nitrile gloves: Nitrile are synthetic rubber gloves that are of the best option by individuals with latex sensitivities. Nitrile can withstand puncture, oils and chemicals and therefore useful in laboratories, janitorial services and in the automotive sectors. They are also snug with good dexterity.
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Vinyl gloves: Vinyl gloves are latex-free and relatively inexpensive, and made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). They are good in light work that does not require interaction with powerful chemicals or biological risks- they are used in the food service and light cleaning.
- Polyethylene gloves: These are extremely light and are very cheap gloves and are normally applied in food handling, cafeterias and grocery stores. They offer very little protection but are ideal in fast and risk-averse cases.
Best for: The medical workers, lab technicians, food handlers, cleaners and tattoo artists.
Pro tip: Miscellany thinness of gloves (measured in mils) is what you need to look at when selecting disposable gloves. Gloves with a thickness of 5-8 mil are more durable and resistant to chemicals whereas thinner gloves of 2-4 mil are more suitable in activities which require fine hand work.
2. Industrial and work gloves
The correct type of gloves can be the difference between a safe and an injured worker when it comes to work with tools, machinery or with dangerous materials. The industrial gloves are meant to shield hands against cuts, abrasions, impact and extreme temperatures and give a good grip as well as resist a long time.
Common types:
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Leather gloves: Leather gloves are manufactured out of cow skin, goatskin or pig skin and are characterized by strength, comfort and resistance to abrasion. They are commonly applied in the construction, welding and mining of heavy equipment. There are versions that are heat-resistant or water-resistant.
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Cut-resistant gloves: These gloves are engineered using high-performance materials such as Kevlar, Dyneema, or HPPE (High-Performance Polyethylene) which provide protection to the user when working with glass, metal and sharp objects. ANSI cut-level ratings are provided with most of them to suit the required level of protection.
- Chemical-resistant gloves: These gloves are crafted using such materials as nitrile, neoprene, PVC or butyl rubber, and are essential when handling acids, solvents or other dangerous liquids. Various chemicals react with different materials, and thus, it is important to ensure that one checks the glove compatibility chart before using it.
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Impact-resistant gloves: Proponents of thermoplastic rubber (TPR) padding, these gloves are used to break shocks and fewer vibration damages, particularly oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing industries.
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Heat-resistant gloves: These type of gloves are designed to resist high temperatures, and are applied in the metalworking, foundry, bakery, and kitchen industries. Flame resistance and thermal insulation are also provided in some of the models.
Best for: Mechanics, welders, construction, warehouse operators, and industrial technicians.
Pro tip: In case your work is characterized by various hazards such as heat and impact, find multi-purpose safety gloves that offer various protection options without compromising the comfort.
3. Examination and medical gloves
In healthcare, it is not only a question of comfort when it comes to the choice of the type of gloves to use but a question of life and death. Medical gloves are also a crucial shield that prevents infections, viruses and body fluids to both the patient and the health care workers. The latter pair is not only safe, but also precise and sensitive, which is of utmost importance in clinical settings.
Common types:
- Surgical gloves: These type of gloves are high-precision surgical gloves that are sterile. They are very sensitive to touch enabling surgeons to do fine operations accurately.
- Examination gloves: Exam type of gloves are non-sterile and intended to be used once only, and they are used in routine check-ups, in diagnostic examinations, and in patient care. They are either latex, nitrile or vinyl and are selected depending on the type of protection and comfort needed.
- Chemotherapy gloves: These are special type of gloves and composed of nitrile or neoprene and they are tested on cytotoxic (chemotherapy) drugs resistance. They provide an excellent shield against exposure to dangerous substances that are very essential in the case of oncology nurses and lab technicians.
Best for: Doctors, nurses, dentists, laboratory staff, veterinarians, and caregivers.
Pro tip: When buying medical gloves, make sure that they are certified by ASTM or EN. These standards guarantee that the gloves are tested to see the barrier performance, durability and biocompatibility.
4. Food handling gloves
Where food preparation and service are involved, there is no compromise on cleanliness. The type of gloves on the right hand assist in avoiding cross-contamination, which is food safe and compliant with the health laws.
Common types:
- Polyethylene gloves: This type of gloves is a non-slim, loose-fitting and cheap glove, ideal in the fast food preparation processes like sandwich making, assembly of salads or serving already prepared foods.
- Nitrile or vinyl gloves: Both are more form-fitting and stronger than polyethylene and have greater tactile control and can be used longer.
- Cut-resistant food gloves: They are developed to cut knives, process meat, or have to slice something, these gloves are usually composed of food-safe and high-performance materials such as Dyneema or stainless steel mesh. They do not interfere with flexibility as they cover the hands against accidental cuts.
Best for: Chefs, bakers, butchers, caterers, and food service workers.
Pro tip: We always wash or disinfect our hands before putting on food handling type of gloves and frequently replace them particularly after touching raw meat or seafood to ensure we are observing the required hygiene standards.
5. Household gloves and cleaning gloves
Care and treatment of the house and the cleaning people subject hands to harsh detergents, bleach, and other cleaning chemicals. The correct gloves can help avoid the drying, irritation and chemical burns as well as enhance the grip and comfort.
Common types:
- Rubber gloves: This type of gloves is a household item which consists of natural latex or synthetic rubber that offers protection against water and flexibility. They are good at washing the dishes, cleaning the bathroom and doing laundry.
- Reusable latex or nitrile gloves: These type of gloves are thicker and stronger than the normal rubber gloves and should be used repeatedly. They are not affected by strenuous cleaning agents that cause wear and tear and hence they are applicable to professional cleaning as well as maintenance staff and industrial cleaning.
- Microfiber or cotton-lined gloves: These type of gloves have a soft inner lining that collects the sweat and will make cleaning more comfortable especially during long cleaning procedures.
Best for: Cleaning the home, washing dishes, cleaning offices, gardening, and general maintenance.
Pro tip: Once used, you should wash your type of gloves in water and dry them in a dark place. They increase their life span and prevent the growth of odour or bacteria due to proper care.
6. Winter and outdoor gloves
Insulated gloves are mandatory in every outdoor person when the temperatures become low. Good winter gloves are warm, dexterous and breathable such that your hands are still comfy without losing agility.
Common types:
- Wool gloves: These type of gloves are a natural favorite during cold weather; they are very well insulated and they are also moisture wicking. Merino types carry additional softness and foul-smell property, which means that they are suitable to wear casually or when being involved with light outdoor activities.
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Leather winter gloves: These type of gloves are stylish yet durable gloves with fleece, wool or Thinsulate lining to keep them warm. They are ideal for day to day commuting, driving, or even winter outings. There are treated versions which are water and wind resistant.
- Ski and snow gloves: These type of gloves are designed to be used in extreme cold and wet environments, the gloves come with waterproof outer covers, thermal insulation and adjustable cuffs to exclude snow and water.
- Touchscreen gloves: These type of gloves are made with gloves with conductive fingertips and can be used to operate smartphones or tablets without taking them off. They are offered in different materials, including knits, leather, and others with possibilities to be practical and convenient.
Best for: Winter sportspeople, outdoor utility, hiking, biking, and commuters.
Pro tip: To be as warm as possible, think about layering gloves, a liner glove, a moisture-wicking one, with a heavier, insulated one over it. The method provides flexibility to the changing weather.
7. Sports and fitness gloves
Gloves have become a very important part of the sport and fitness industry in terms of improving performance, gripping and at the same time avoiding injury. They cushion your hands against friction, calluses and blisters and also give your hands an added support during physical exercise. Whether it is in the gym, riding the mountain trails or engaging in competitive sports, the appropriate pair of gloves can be felt in terms of comfort and control.
Common types:
- Gym gloves: Gym gloves are created to be used during weight lifting, cross fitness and other weight fitness, which are used to prevent calluses and blisters on your fingers or hands when using barbells, dumbbells or gym machines. Most of them have breathable mesh material, anti-slip cushions and adjustable wrist straps to promote comfort and stability during the lifting process.
- Cycling gloves: The Cycling Gloves are a necessity to every cyclist, these gloves eliminate the pressure and vibrations during long rides. They are usually stuffed with gel or foam to cushion the shock against crash road and give them additional grip in order to have better control of the handlebar.
- Goalkeeper gloves: These type of gloves are designed specifically to fit soccer goalkeepers, with the sticky latex palm to give them the best control of the ball and the padding to cushion an impact of a hard shot.
- Golf and baseball gloves: These type of gloves are used in fields where the hands are required to have accuracy, and the feel is also required to be constant. Golf gloves provide thin but hardwearing leather or synthetic fabric which prevents the slippage of the swing, whereas baseball batting gloves serve to decrease vibration, enhance control, and safeguard the skin in the midst of vigorous play.
Best for: Fitness freaks, athletes, sports professionals, and outdoor adventures.
Pro tip: To select sports gloves, note such characteristics as moisture-wicking fabrics, ventilated mesh areas, and ergonomic sewing. These specifications enhance comfort, stamina and ventilation- particularly when the training is prolonged or vigorous.
8. Fashion and dress gloves
Not every single glove is crafted either to work or for sports; some of them are made simply to be stylish, elegant, and to express oneself. Vintage-inspired lace, high-end leather shoes, and dress gloves are things that have been considered fashionable accessories over the centuries, and they represent elegance, classiness, and prestige.
Common types:
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Leather dress gloves: Leather gloves are the most diverse and universal accessory that is a luxurious and useful product. Made out of luxury fabrics such as lambskin, deerskin or goatskin, they are sleek in fit and polished.
- Lace or satin gloves: These gloves are feminine and can be worn during weddings, gala events, and events with a vintage theme. Lace gloves are romantic and vintage whereas satin are smooth and shiny and are ideal to wear when attending a wedding, opera, and during formal events.
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Cotton gloves: Easy to wear, breathable Cotton Glove Cotton gloves are frequently worn in archival, ceremonial, or theatrical contexts where their weightlessness and sanitariness are essential. They guard delicate items such as artwork or jewelry against oils and fingerprints, and also are simple and offer unobtrusive elegance.
Best for: Fashion enthusiasts, actors, people at an event, and anyone who wishes to make an addition to an outfit to make it sophisticated.
Pro tip: In order to maintain your fashion gloves in their best condition, it is advisable to keep them flat in a cool and dry environment with no sunlight exposure. In the case of leather gloves, a conditioning balm is to be used periodically to keep the glove soft and not shatter.
Read more: What do textile gloves protect against? The guide to their benefits
Final thoughts
At EvridWear, we believe that the selection of the type of gloves will depend upon your needs and environment and also on the preferences of an individual. Disposable gloves to keep skin uncontaminated, heavy-duty industrial gloves to keep skin sharp and out of the way of chemicals, and many others each have their own purpose. These differences are important in understanding how to choose the most appropriate glove that will be comfortable and safe and efficient.
The sphere of gloves is larger than one may think, and it serves all possible reasons, starting with protection and sport and going to fashion and beauty. Having the right knowledge, it becomes easy and natural to come up with the most appropriate glove, which enables you to keep the hands safe and comfortable, and prepared for whatever comes your way in life.