Glossary

Glossary of Terms Related to Gloves, Rainwear, Boots, and Protective Safety Wear

• Latex
  Latex gloves are made from a thin, flexible rubber and are very well-suited for use as medical examination gloves, for food processing, and for use with household chemicals. The latex glove may be powdered or powder-free. Disposable latex gloves are widely used.
• Rubber
  Rubber gloves are generally thicker than latex gloves, providing more protection against cuts and punctures. Rubber is a multi-purpose material, extensively used in rubber boots, gloves, rainwear, and more.
• Neoprene
  Neoprene is a tough, synthetic rubber that offers protection against harsh chemicals like acid, oil, gease, solvent, and more. Neoprene gloves are widely used in industrial applications. Neoprene can also be combined with a substance like latex to form a neoprene and latex glove that provides protection while retaining flexibility.
• Nitrile
  Nitrile is a synthetic rubber that is more durable than latex or vinyl. Nitrile gloves come in a wide range of weights, from disposable nitrile gloves to heavy duty ones that offers protection against cuts and punctures. Nitrile gloves are a good alternative for people with latex allergy.
• Plastic
  Plastic gloves, or polyethylene gloves, are very lightweight gloves best suited for applications such as food service, cosmetics, precision work, and so forth. Disposable plastic gloves are standard. Polyethylene is also used for plastic rain ponchos.
• PVC
  PVC is a synthetic coating that is applied to gloves and rainwear to protect against chemicals, solvents, and so forth. PVC coated gloves are a lower cost alternative to nitrile or neoprene gloves. PVC rain ponchos are another use of this waterproof material.
• Polyurethane
  Polyurethane is a synthetic with many different uses. When used on gloves, such as a polyurethane palm-coated cotton glove, it provides good protection while maintaining maximum elasticity. A polyurethane-coated glove is excellent for fine applications such as handling film.
• Kevlar
  Kevlar is the registered trademark of a synthetic material developed by Dupont. Its high 'strength to weight' ratio makes it 5 times stronger than steel on an equal weight basis. Kevlar gloves offer excellent heat and flame resistance, and also protect against cuts and punctures. Kevlar gloves and Kevlar yarn is used in such varied situations as welding gloves, heat protective mitts, lightweight Kevlar knit gloves, and more.
• Hot Mill
  Hot Mills gloves, developed for use in such demanding environments as foundries, forges, and mills, are tough, durable, protective gloves made from heavy duty fabric that may be reinforced with double palms and other features to protect against high heat while allowing movement and flexibility.
• Calfskin
  Calfskin, used in making calfskin leather gloves, is a thin, supple leather that fits snugly around the hand.
• Deerskin
  Deerskin, in addition to being a soft, supple leather, remains soft even when wet, making it the perfect choice for cold, wet weather. Our deerskin leather gloves are made from select American deerskin.
• Thinsulate
  Thinsulate is a trademark of the 3M Corporation. It is a synthetic fiber used for insulation in clothing. Thinsulate-lined gloves provide warmth and comfort, while an outer layer, such as deerskin, provides protection from water and cold. Thinsulate-lined deerskin gloves are a perfect combination of comfort and functionality.