Work Glove Coatings.

A very high proportion of modern work gloves are coated, the coating provides an extra layer of protection in addition to the knitted glove shell itself. Numerous types of coatings are available each adding their own set of useful properties.

Coatings take the form of a natural or manmade polymer. They are applied by dipping the knitted shell into the desired polymer while it is in a liquid state. Once dipped, the polymer will dry to form a flexible coating. The terms ‘coated gloves’ and ‘dipped gloves’ are interchangeable as they mean the same thing.

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Polymer Coatings

Gloves can either be palm coated or fully coated depending on the intended end use. The level of dip coverage can be completely controlled in the manufacturing process.

Fully coating a glove will ensure that the protective qualities of the polymer are extended over the entire hand. Palm coated gloves will protect in areas where the hand comes into contact with the hazard and leave the back of the hand free for extra breathability.

Some gloves are fully coated in one polymer and then palm coated in another, these gloves are commonly referred to as ‘double-dipped’. The full coating often provides a barrier from oil or moisture penetration while the palm coating is for grip, increased dexterity or possibly to give the glove ‘touch-screen’ capabilities.

Gloves can also be three-quarter coated which provides a good balance between protective barrier and skin breathability. The dip will cover the palm, fingers and back of hand to around the half-way point, leaving a small section towards the wrist uncoated revealing the knitted shell. This is intended to aid air circulation to the skin.

Another frequently used form of coating is PVC dot. This is usually a palm coating made up of tiny, equally spaced PVC dots and is designed to provide excellent grip for general handling gloves. PVC is used as it is a polymer known for its exceptional gripping power.