Buying the wrong glove costs twice: once for the gloves, and again when workers stop wearing them. Before you ask for quotes, answer these five questions.
1. What does the worker actually do?
Watch the job, or ask the people who do it. Lifting blocks, driving a forklift and fitting small parts need very different gloves, even in the same building.
2. What are the hazards?
List them: rough surfaces, sharp edges, heat, sparks, cold, wet or oily parts. A plain leather glove handles abrasion well. Cuts, heat and chemicals need specific constructions, and if the risk is serious you need a glove tested for it.
3. How much feel is needed?
Thicker leather and linings protect more but reduce feel. If workers need to pick up screws or use a touchscreen, choose thinner goatskin or sheepskin, or an assembly glove. If they move rough materials, choose cowhide or a rigger.
4. What are the conditions?
Cold work needs a lining. Wet work needs treated leather or a different glove altogether. Hot workplaces benefit from breathable backs or pigskin.
5. Does it fit?
A glove that is too big catches on things; one that is too small splits and tires the hand. Order a size range and check fit on real hands before placing a bulk order.
Then test it
Give samples to a few workers for a week and ask for honest feedback. It is the cheapest way to avoid a bad bulk order.
See our product ranges or read the leather comparison.
Updated