Choosing the right work gloves is not simply about finding a pair that feels comfortable. The right gloves should provide protection against the specific risks involved in a job while still allowing workers to handle tools and materials safely.
Different workplaces require different types of protection. Construction workers may need cut and impact protection, while someone working outdoors may need waterproof or thermal gloves. Understanding the main hazards is the first step towards choosing the right pair.
1. Identify the main workplace hazard
Before choosing gloves, think about what could cause injury to the hands.
Common workplace hazards include:
- Sharp edges and materials
- Heavy or moving objects
- Chemicals and liquids
- Heat and cold
- Oil and grease
- Vibration
- Abrasion and general handling
- Needles or other specialist hazards
For example, someone handling sheet metal may need high cut resistance, while a warehouse worker handling boxes may be more concerned with grip, dexterity and general abrasion protection.
2. Choose the protection you actually need
There is no single glove that is perfect for every task.
Cut-resistant gloves are designed for jobs involving sharp materials. They can be useful in construction, manufacturing, glass handling, metal handling and other applications. Our guide to cut levels A to F explains how to pick the right level.
Impact protection gloves can provide additional protection when workers are exposed to knocks or impacts.
Chemical-resistant gloves are designed for situations where workers may come into contact with chemicals or hazardous substances.
Thermal and waterproof gloves are useful for outdoor work or environments where workers are exposed to cold and wet conditions.
3. Don’t overlook grip and dexterity
Protection is important, but a glove that makes it difficult to hold tools or operate equipment may not be suitable for the job.
Consider whether workers need:
- High dexterity
- A strong grip in dry conditions
- Grip in wet or oily environments
- Touchscreen compatibility
- Flexible materials
- A close-fitting design
For example, some nitrile-coated gloves combine grip with flexibility and are suitable for precision handling.
4. Check the relevant standards
Safety gloves can have different performance ratings and standards depending on their intended use. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications and make sure the glove is appropriate for the hazards present in your workplace.
For cut-resistant gloves, EN388 is particularly important because it provides information about mechanical protection – read what EN388 glove ratings mean. Guides to other standards are in our Help & Guides section.
5. Choose the correct size
Even a high-quality safety glove may not perform properly if it is the wrong size.
A glove that is too loose can reduce grip and dexterity, while a glove that is too tight can become uncomfortable during long shifts.
Always check the manufacturer’s sizing information before ordering.
Which work gloves are right for you?
The best work gloves depend on the task, environment and hazards involved. Start by identifying the main risk, then choose the appropriate level of protection without sacrificing comfort and dexterity.
If you’re unsure where to start, explore our full range of work and safety gloves for UK workplaces.
Quick answer
The best work gloves are the ones that match the specific hazards of the job. Consider cut, impact, chemical, heat, cold, water, grip and dexterity requirements before choosing a glove.
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