Glove Coating Options: Polyurethane v. Nitrile
Glove coating is an essential component of glove design, which contributes to both functionality and durability for the wearer. Before we get into polyurethane vs. nitrile coatings, let’s review the big picture considerations for glove coatings. Your coating choice is going to be based on your specific application rather than cost. The cost of the glove will be based on the material of the shell, and coating will not have much impact on this. So, when selecting a coating your focus should be on functionality in your unique setting.
For the most part, our customers find themselves choosing between polyurethane (PU) and nitrile coatings. In the simplest of terms, nitrile is better for settings with abrasive materials and with a need for better wet grip. PU is better for settings where higher levels of dexterity are required. Both of these materials will have similar life spans when used in the appropriate settings, and both are great options. As I walk through the benefits of each coating, note I am focusing on pros and cons. However, both coatings offer grip and abrasion resistance, as well as functionality for the wearer.
So, what makes these coating options function the way they do? Nitrile is a very abrasive material which is great for working with metal and other rough materials. However, nitrile is also abrasive to skin if there is extended contact. So, when gloves are dipped with a nitrile coating, there is a protective air pocket or another coating between the nitrile and the shell of the glove. This feature, while a great protection for the wearer, limits the dexterity of the glove making it less useful in settings requiring smaller, more detailed movements. The trade off is better grip and abrasion resistance overall. Additionally, there is more versatility for gloves to be double dipped and to have dots or other textures added to create more grip and functionality. Because of the grip and abrasion of nitrile coatings, we see them used in manufacturing, metal fabrication, and other more harsh environments.
Polyurethane also offers good dry grip and abrasion resistance. However, it is less abrasive than nitrile, allowing it to have contact with skin without causing damage. So, when you turn a PU coated glove inside out you will see the coating has seeped into the inside of the shell. Because of this, PU coated gloves have more dexterity, making them more useful than nitrile for electricians and many others doing finishing-type work. PU does still boast good dry grip and is a sturdy material, but the tradeoff between nitrile and PU is a little less grip and abrasion for more dexterity.
Overall, both coatings are effective in their own ways and in the appropriate settings. Neither is a “bad” option as both offer grip and abrasion resistance. However, you will likely find that one is better than the other for your specific needs. As always, feel free to reach out to sales@safetypackonline.com or 919-602-2503 to talk through the factors in your unique setting and for assistance with making the best choice for your employees. See below for resources from some of our awesome vendors!
Armor Guys coatings guide: https://armorguys.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Coatings-Flyer-1.pdf
Global Glove Dip Guide: https://www.globalglove.com/media/wysiwyg/features/pdfs/GGS_Glove_Dip_Polymer_Guide.pdf
