| Glove Type |
Key Components |
Strength & Protection |
Comfort & Fit |
Possible Allergies |
Typical Industry Use |
Cost |
| Latex |
Natural rubber latex |
Natural rubber latex is very durable
Low leakage rate
High protection
Long lasting due to significant thickness
Has some re-seal elements when punctured |
Comfortable fit due to the elasticity of natural rubber
Snap-back qualities
Soft to the touch |
High propensity for allergies due to latex proteins & chemicals |
Medical
Dental
Healthcare
EMS
Law Enforcement
Automotive
Food Service
Salons |
Middle-of-
the-road |
| Nitrile |
Blend of butadiene, carboxylic acids and acrylonitrile to form a synthetic polymer |
Very strong
Does not tear easily
High protection
Resists punctures & tears |
A little tighter fit because, with use, conforms to the shape of hand |
Low probability of allergies; no protein
Popular non-latex alternative |
Dental
Healthcare
EMS
Law Enforcement
Automotive
Industrial
Janitorial
Tattoo Parlors |
Expensive |
| Vinyl |
Poly vinyl chloride |
Weak
Breaks with extended or rigorous use
Low protection
Use in low risk situations
Anti-static properties |
Comfortable because of looser fit that does not constrict hand
Looser fit usually results in less dexterity |
Low probability of allergies; no protein |
Dental
Healthcare
Aviation
Food service
Education/Schools |
Economical |
| 3rd Generation Synthetic |
Poly vinyl chloride (PVC) with some additional advanced technology |
Very durable & strong
High protection
Resists punctures & tears
Good tactile sensitivity |
Comfortable fit due to high elasticity
Slightly looser cuff allows for more air circulation
Soft to the touch |
Low probability of allergies; no protein |
Dental
Healthcare
Law Enforcement
Aviation
Salons
Education/Schools |
Middle-of-
the-road |
| Neoprene |
Chloroprene |
Strong
Resists punctures
Medium tear resistance |
Comfortable fit
Flexible because of elasticity
Latex-like fit |
Low probability of allergies; no protein |
Dental
Healthcare
EMS
Automotive |
Expensive |
| Poly |
Polyethylene |
Weak
Tears easily
Low protection |
Loose fit designed for easy and fast on and off
Good for frequent glove change |
Low probability of allergies; no protein |
Food service
Fast food/Delis
Buffet Serving |
Most
economical |