Gloves 101: Polyurethane, Nitrile and Latex Coated Gloves
Polyurethane, nitrile, and latex coated gloves are all popular choices for hand protection in various work environments. They provide excellent grip, dexterity, and protection against various hazards. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right type of coated gloves for your work application. In this blog post, we'll provide a basic overview of polyurethane, nitrile, and latex coated gloves.
| Material | Applications |
|---|---|
| Polyurethane | Precision work, tasks requiring excellent dexterity and tactile sensitivity, protection against abrasions and cuts, dry conditions |
| Nitrile | Durable and flexible tasks, protection against punctures, chemicals, and oils, excellent grip in dry, wet, and oily conditions, wide range of work applications |
| Latex | Flexible and comfortable tasks, excellent grip in dry and wet conditions, protection against abrasions and cuts, wide range of work applications, not suitable for use with oils and chemicals, and not recommended for individuals with latex allergies |
Polyurethane Coated Gloves
Polyurethane Coated Gloves are thin, lightweight gloves that provide excellent dexterity and tactile sensitivity. The polyurethane coating is applied to the palm and fingertips of the glove, providing excellent grip and protection against abrasions and cuts. PU coated gloves are also breathable, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Pros:
- Provide excellent dexterity and tactile sensitivity, making them ideal for precision work
- Thin and lightweight, providing good breathability and comfort
- Offer good protection against abrasions and cuts
- Good grip, especially in dry conditions
Cons:
- Limited protection against punctures and chemicals
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work applications
- Not recommended for use in wet or oily conditions
Nitrile Coated Gloves
Nitrile coated gloves are durable, flexible, and resistant to oils, chemicals, and punctures. The nitrile coating is applied to the palm and fingertips of the glove, providing excellent grip and protection against abrasions, cuts, and punctures.
Pros:
- Durable and flexible, providing good resistance to punctures, chemicals, and oils
- Excellent grip in dry, wet, and oily conditions
- Good protection against abrasions and cuts
- Suitable for a wide range of work applications
Cons:
- Not as flexible as polyurethane or latex coated gloves, which may limit dexterity
- Can cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to latex or nitrile
Latex Coated Gloves
Latex coated gloves are flexible, comfortable, and provide excellent grip. The latex coating is applied to the palm and fingertips of the glove, providing protection against abrasions and cuts.
Pros:
- Flexible and comfortable, providing good dexterity and tactile sensitivity
- Excellent grip in dry and wet conditions
- Good protection against abrasions and cuts
- Suitable for a wide range of work applications
Cons:
- Not suitable for use with oils and chemicals, as they can degrade the latex coating
- Not recommended for individuals with latex allergies
- May cause hand fatigue over extended periods of use
Key Considerations When Choosing Coated Gloves
When choosing the right type of coated gloves for your work application, consider the following factors:
- Hazard: Identify the hazards present in your work environment and choose a coating material that provides the appropriate level of protection against those hazards.
- Grip: Consider the level of grip required for your work application and choose a coating material that provides the appropriate level of grip.
- Durability: Choose a coating material that is durable enough to withstand the demands of your work environment and the tasks performed.
- Comfort: Choose a coating material that is comfortable to wear for extended periods, as this can help reduce hand fatigue and increase productivity.
In conclusion, polyurethane, nitrile, and latex coated gloves all have their own unique properties and suitability for different work applications. By considering the pros and cons of each type of coated glove, as well as the specific needs of your work application, you can choose the right type of coated glove to provide maximum protection, grip, and comfort for your hands.
Find our coated glove selection here!