Latex Gloves

A long-time trusted go-to protective glove of the medical industry, Latex gloves are natural material, made out of rubber. The primary reason people choose alternates to latex is because many people suffer from latex allergies. When allergy is not a concern, latex does have a slight advantage with comfort and dexterity over nitrile gloves.

Strengths include:

• Fit comfortably like a second skin
• Have a high level of touch sensitivity
• Are good for wearing for an extended amount of time
• Work well for high-risk situations involving infectious material
• Are very cost-effective
• Are lightly powdered, making it easier to put on
• Are very elastic and strong
• Are biodegradable
• Strong dexterity

Nitrile Gloves

Constructed from a synthetic rubber, Nitrile gloves are an ideal option where latex allegories are a concern. Known as “medical grade” gloves, Nitrile gloves are the unquestioned superior glove when it comes to puncture resistance. Before gloves can be marketed to hospitals and medical institutions, they must undergo a series of tests conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure their durability.

Features include:

• Latex-free
• Perfectly suited for most medical environments
• Are exceptionally puncture resistant
• Have a high level of sensitivity
• Mold to your hand for a great fit
• Are good for wearing an extended amount of time
• Ideal choice for high-risk situations involving infectious material, hazardous and corrosive chemicals
• Boast a long shelf life
• Are available in blue or black to help identify if the glove has been punctured
• Are also available in biodegradable styles

Vinyl Gloves

Vinyl gloves are a popular choice for the food industry and situations where high levels of durability and protection are less of a priority. Vinyl gloves are composed of PVC, a petroleum-based film. While they may be less durable, they are the less expensive option. Vinyl gloves’ main weaknesses are that they can be easily structurally compromised or torn when stretched and have a negative environmental impact.

Features include:

• Latex-free
• Have a looser fit
• Are good for short-term, low-risk tasks
• Most economic option
• Have anti-static properties
• Are best for use with non-hazardous materials

Industrial Gloves

• Industrial grade (or general purpose) gloves fall under the FDA's jurisdiction if they are used in the food industry. These general purpose gloves are generally used as personal protection for janitorial and sanitation tasks, or for non-medical laboratory tasks.