Home Home & Garden SuppliesTools & Home Improvement How To Protect Your Hands at Work – The 5 Best Work Gloves

How To Protect Your Hands at Work – The 5 Best Work Gloves

by Luke Conner

Humankind has gone to the moon – if you believe the government – plumbed the depths of the ocean and even made a reduced-calorie beer for anyone watching their girlish figure.

While these feats are impressive, none of them could have been accomplished if it weren’t for our hands.

Our hands are a large part of what separates us from the beasts of the field, and without them, we’d have long ago been food for any predator roaming the prairie.

This means they must be protected at all costs. For that, you need a good pair of work gloves.

There is no exact formula for choosing the right gloves. If you work with metal, you need some that will protect you from cuts and scrapes.

If you are gardening, you need something that will give you both protection and dexterity for plucking roots or handling thorns.

For those whose pursuits are truly rough, you need hardy gloves that don’t chafe as you swing an ax, hang drywall, or pull ore from the living earth.

Whoever you are and whatever you do, one of our best work gloves will keep your hands safe and sound.

Carhartt Work Gloves

Does it All: If you need a work glove for around the house or out in the field, the Carhartt model will keep your hands safe from general scrapes, splinters, punctures, blisters, and abrasions.

The body is 100% cotton duck fabric making it pliable with an easy range of motion. The palm is full-grain leather reinforced with suede.

The lining is polyester and has a safety cuff and full side vent for easy removal and to prevent slipping.

Not ideal for warm weather or times when you need precision with your fingers but perfect for general DIY duties.

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Epica Cut Resistant Gloves

A Cut Above: Epica had managed to make a glove that is more than 4 times better than leather at preventing cuts without sacrificing manual movement.

These are great for industrial work, machining, metal handling, and even chopping, grating, or cutting in the kitchen.

The gloves have Level 5 EN388 cut resistance, so you know they will stand up to slicing and dicing by the biggest butterfingers out there. They’re also great for handling glass.

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Bionic Rose Gardening Gloves

For the Ladies: If you know a woman with a green thumb or are a woman with a green thumb, these gardening gloves from Bionic Rose are meant for you.

They are made from Cabretta Leather that stands up to the most brutal pruning or shearing while allowing you the flexibility to pick a single daffodil without mauling it.

They come with a gauntlet cuff to protect your arms and a reinforced thumb that fights off any burrs that seek to find their way through.

Oddly enough, Bionic Rose does not make decent products for men, so unless you are a gentleman with dainty hands, these will most likely be too small to suit you.

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Gold Leaf Soft Touch Gloves

Gardening for Guys: Guys that like to tiptoe through the tulips agree that when it comes to supply work gloves that offer protection and dexterity, Gold Leaf has no peer. The palm is deerskin, which is thinner than leather for better touch sensitivity but tough enough to stand up to the most vicious hedges. The body is made of a Lycra and nylon combination that is flexible and breathable, so your hands won’t make your gloves smell like a locker room during extended use in the summer sun.

Mechanix Wear MG-05-010

For the Gearhead: This is the OG glove made by Mechanix for anyone that wants to spend their time laid out on a creeper rebuilding engines or slamming some NOZ into their ride.

They have a synthetic leather palm and fingertips. Still, the rest is two-way stretch spandex with an interior seam that prevents snagging even when you are elbow deep in an engine.

The thin fabric gives you the ability to hold nuts and bolts in place by touch and slip your hands into the most enclosed spaces without getting caught.

They’re strong enough to take to the track but better for strictly protecting your hands during repairs to avoid leaving too much blood under the hood.

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Memphis N9690 Ninja Ice Gloves

Sub-Zero Win: Finding a really good work glove is hard. Finding a good work glove that can also keep your hands warm in freezing temperatures is nearly impossible.

This is why the Ninja Ice Gloves were invented. They are a combination of 100% Nylon exterior for flexibility and PVC acrylic terry interior for comfort and heat retention.

The palms are coated with Hydropellent Technology (HPT) to provide the slip-proof grip that works in ice, snow, and rain. Best of all, they won’t get stiff even if you are working well below zero.

Ironclad TOG-04-L

Tactical Choice: Your job might be a little more than pulling weeds, pounding nails, or bolting down a chassis.

Maybe you need something that you can thread through the trigger guard of an AR-15. Then you’ll want the TOG from Ironclad.

They have a single piece of synthetic leather at the palm, which has a Teflon treatment for fighting off oil. They are usually chosen by hunters, police, military personnel, and probably assassins, though they rarely give reviews.

The body is a combination of Airprene, Terry, and Nylon that won’t snag or reflect light, so your stealth is never compromised.

They work equally well for mechanics and carpenters who need protection and sensation with their fingertips. However, they are a little pricey if that is your only goal.

Stainless Steel Mesh Hand Glove

Sale
Stainless Steel Mesh Hand Glove - Cut Resistant (XS)
  • Ambidextrous - Glove will fit either hand - Made in Germany
  • All-metal cuffs won’t break down or fall apart like fabric or plastic cuffs when exposed to water, chemicals and soil
  • Made from 100% high-grade stainless steel with hermetically sealed micro plasma welds
  • Self-adjusting tensioning system allows for easy fit without straps or buckles
  • Gloves do run big: We recommend ordering a size smaller for women

Honorable Mention: It’s unlikely that you are going to get into a sword fight with the Mountain Who Rides any time soon, but if you feel like having your own Game of Thrones Fantasy as you dig up roots or do home repairs, then the meshwork gloves are chainmail for your hands.

They are more than just costuming. They are actually very functional when you need not just cut-resistance but cut proofing since they are 100% stainless steel.

The metal makeup also means they won’t hold bacteria the way cloth will, so they’re very good for hygienic gardening.

They’re expensive, but if you think that at some point, you will need to slap someone across the face and challenge them to a duel, then you want a glove that is up to really do it.

Buying Guide

Now that we’ve seen the 8 best work gloves on the market, it’s time for a buying guide.

What do you need to consider before making a purchase?

Availability of hand dimensions

Most brands have a sizing chart that can determine what size is right for you. Some even have adjustable straps, so they fit various hand sizes. Think about your hands before investing in a product!

Material

You definitely don’t want something that will tear or rip when faced with tough situations such as handling tools and such. Look into the specific materials used to make each type of glove; some are more effective than others in certain scenarios. If you are working with metal, you need something that is cut-resistant.

Padding

If you use your hands often, especially with rough materials, you’ll need a little protection from injuries. Invest in gloves with padding or gel if you can! The extra cushioning is definitely worth it.

Weather-proofing

Some types of gloves are waterproof, so that’s an option if you’re regularly performing work in wet conditions. If you know you’ll be working in the rain, buy a pair that won’t fail when wet!

Flexibility & Dexterity

If your hands need to do delicate tasks or grip small objects, then you’ll want something with maximum flexibility and dexterity. It would also help if the gloves are breathable or allow for ventilation to prevent overheating. Flexibility and dexterity will really depend on the type of gloves you plan on using.

Protective features

Invest in a pair of work gloves that protects your hands from dangers such as cuts and scrapes. They’re a good idea if you use tools often or do some heavy-duty gardening. You don’t want to injure yourself just because the glove wasn’t up for the task! The gloves should also have a good grip, especially if you are working with oils or other slippery substances.

work gloves worker

Other features to look for

Cuts and Punctures

Some gloves are designed for light-duty, but if you’re using your hands to build things or doing work that requires more effort on your part, you might want something tougher.  They should be made of durable materials that are puncture-resistant. For example, if you are working on a car or doing landscaping, work gloves will be made of rugged materials such as synthetic leather, Kevlar, or cotton.

Water and Chemicals

Nowadays, some work gloves are water-resistant or even oil resistant. If you’re working in a messy environment, it might be worth looking into these options. You don’t want to make your hands all dirty when you can avoid it! This is a great feature for those who have to work with harmful chemicals as well.

Abrasion Protection

If you regularly handle rough materials like rocks and sandpaper, look for something with added abrasion protection. Some of the work glove material may be tougher than others; therefore, adding more to the product isn’t hard. Thicker gloves will prevent cuts and scrapes, keeping your hands safe from harm. The coating on the gloves can also add to their durability. They are perfect for construction workers and those who have to use their hands a lot.

Electricity Protection

Some gloves are actually able to handle electric shocks! If you work with tools like saws and soldering irons, this might be a good idea since it could prevent painful electrocution. If you get shocked, likely, you’re not going to feel like working the next day.

Bruising and Blistering

If you often work outdoors or with your hands, it’s good to look over gloves that protect against the sun and wind. It protects people who are sensitive to weather changes. It’s not hard to find gloves that claim to be able to do this. If you work with your hands all day, this is one of the features to look for.

best work gloves

Frequently Asked Questions

How should your work gloves fit?

Your work gloves should be comfortable and fit you well. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. If your gloves are too loose, they could get in the way of what you’re doing.

There isn’t a certain brand that is the best. Some people like to use latex gloves, but others don’t like how it feels on their hands. There’s always something for everyone, and each person has their own choice when it comes to which glove they’ll like more than another.

How long should your gloves last?

Some companies claim that their work gloves will last long enough to use them for years! It really all depends on how often you use them and if they meet your requirements or not. The durability also depends on the type of glove you have.

What is the difference between cloth gloves and vinyl gloves?

Cloth gloves are usually made of cotton or natural material, whereas Vinyl gloves are usually made from rubber. The two do not perform the same function, so it’s important to remember that when purchasing them. There are some types of vinyl gloves that don’t need to be removed when coming into contact with water, but cloth gloves can also be used in this way.

When must gloves be replaced while working?

If you have gloves that are ripped or torn, it’s time to replace them. You should do this as soon as possible, so your hands are protected from injury. If the material is ripped, your work gloves won’t be able to protect you properly, which can lead to painful accidents.

How should you take care of your work gloves?

Make sure to clean and dry your gloves after using them. They usually come in packaging that will allow for easy storage. They go into a flat box for cloth gloves, while vinyl ones get hung up on a hook with a label on it. This way, they’ll stay clean and uncontaminated when they’re not being used, so there isn’t a chance of cross-contamination while working in a lab.

What do you do if your gloves are too sweaty?

This is when vinyl gloves come in handy. They usually allow the wearer to be much more flexible than cotton or cloth ones. If you’re having trouble with your hands sweating after wearing them, it might be time to try out vinyl instead.

Are fingerless work gloves allowed?

Some places don’t allow fingerless work gloves because they’re not as protective as the full-fingered ones. If you’re allowed, wearing them can actually be comfortable. It just depends on your own preference.

Are insulated gloves waterproof?

Insulated gloves are usually made out of materials that aren’t waterproof, so it’s best to make sure you have a separate pair if you need to go outside for things like snow removal or gardening purposes. Some insulated gloves might actually be able to handle water, but there’s no way to find this out without testing them first.

Are fingerless work gloves safe?

Usually, fingerless work gloves are made with materials that aren’t as protective as the full-fingered ones. If you’re working around dangerous equipment or sharp tools, you should wear a pair of fully covering gloves for protection.

What does it mean if your fingers are sticking out of your work gloves?

If your fingers are sticking out of your work gloves, it means they don’t fit correctly. A glove should have some wiggle room but not too much since it needs to be able to protect you properly. If you’re using cloth gloves and your fingers are still poking through, this is probably because they’re too tight on your hands which won’t give you enough movement for what you need to do.

What do gloves for machine work have in common?

Machine work gloves usually need to be able to protect the wearer from cuts and abrasions as well as provide them with a firm grip on whatever they’re doing. This is why many of those who use machine tools prefer cloth gloves.

What do you do if your glove comes off while working?

If your glove comes off while you’re working, it’s important to find a way to fix the problem. The best thing for this situation would be to buy some industrial-strength glue that is safe to use on gloves. This will ensure that the glove stays in place when needed.

What are heat-resistant work gloves?

Heat-resistant work gloves are made out of materials that aren’t likely to melt when exposed to heat. This way, if the wearer happens to touch something hot such as a pot on a stove or oven, they will be safe from burns because their gloves won’t melt.

What do you do when your glove is too big?

If your glove is too big, it means it doesn’t fit correctly. It’s best to see if you can exchange the size of the glove or try measuring your hand before buying a new pair of work gloves.

What do you do if you’re allergic to latex?

If you’re allergic to latex, this probably won’t be an easy fix. Some places offer powder-free gloves instead, which will make them safer for those who can’t use latex.

What kind of glove should I use when working with chemicals?

It’s best to look for ones that are made specifically for this job. Many different types of chemical-resistant gloves can work in all sorts of situations around the house and around the lab. If working with chemicals, make sure there is a label on your glove saying what type of damage it can deal with in case accidents happen. It would be unfortunate to have an accident with a chemical so powerful that your gloves couldn’t take it.

What kind of gloves should I use when dealing with pesticides?

This is another situation where you would want to get special chemical-resistant gloves specifically made for this task. Pesticides are very dangerous and can be painful or even fatal if they come in contact with the skin. Keep yourself safe from harm by getting a pair of vinyl ones! Just make sure they’re not too loose because you’ll need complete control over what you’re doing.

How do work gloves keep your hands warm in the winter?

Some manufacturers make different types of work gloves that have insulation properties. If you live somewhere cold, this might help keep your hands warm while still allowing you to work comfortably. Be sure to check the specifications and reviews online before you buy these.

What kind of work gloves are best for gardening?

This depends on what you’re doing in the garden. If it’s cold, you’ll want to get a pair that keeps your hands warm. You could go with insulated ones or heavy-duty cloth ones. If your yard is full of prickles and thorns, you’d also want something with a good grip, so you don’t slip while trying to pull them out.

What kind should I use if I work with metal?

Vinyl gloves would be ideal for this type of job because they protect against sparks and can endure the heat without melting too quickly. Just keep in mind that you’ll need something that will give you enough dexterity while still protecting you from cuts and scrapes.

How should you take care of your work gloves?

Washing them is usually necessary after every use. Make sure they dry completely before putting them back on so you don’t get a rash from dampness against the skin. Many work gloves come with thorough washing instructions to make this easier. These steps ensure that your hands will be protected at all costs while also encouraging good hygiene practices in general!

Conclusion

Work gloves that offer protection from the sun, wind, and weather, as well as those that are puncture-resistant, can be a lifesaver. If you want to invest in a pair of gloves, look over what they have to offer first before anything else. It’s important for your safety, so it’s going to be worth it!

Last update on 2024-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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