Part 1: The Art and Anatomy of Glove Making

Understanding Glove Materials

In the world of glove-making, different materials serve different purposes. Some terms may sound foreign to the casual glove wearer, but these are crucial aspects to consider.

1. Cabretta: A delicate, thin leather originating from the skin of Brazilian hair sheep. It’s known for its soft texture and durability.
2. Cape or Capeskin: This is a superior-quality, thin leather created from the skin of South African hair sheep. This material offers remarkable flexibility and sensitivity.
3. Grain: This is the outer layer of the leather where the hair originally was. ‘Full Grain’ retains the original surface, while ‘Corrected Grain’ undergoes an abrasive process to make the leather smoother and more uniform.

Decoding Glove Anatomy

Gloves are not just a single piece of material. They have distinct anatomy; understanding this can help you choose the right glove.

1. Clute Cut: This style features a seamless one-piece palm and seams along the inside of the fingers.
2. Cuff: This is part of the glove that extends beyond the palm, covering the wrist and part of the forearm. It serves to protect these areas and keep debris out of the glove.
3. Fourchette: Also known as the sidewall or gusset, this is the piece of leather sewn between the fingers in some gloves.
4. Gauntlet: This is a long cuff designed to protect the forearm.
5. Gunn Cut: This glove style features seams at the base of the fingers, with the seams between the fingers on the back of the glove.
6. Welt: This is a thin piece of leather sewn into the seam to strengthen it. It’s often used in the seam at the thumb crotch and the finger’s base.

Part 2: Understanding the Importance of Proper Glove Size

Why Is Correct Glove Size Important?

Correct glove size is essential for both comfort and efficiency. A glove that is too large may slip off, while a glove that is too small may restrict movement and cause discomfort. Furthermore, ill-fitting gloves can reduce dexterity, affecting productivity and safety, especially in industrial settings.

How Hand Injuries Occur

Hand injuries are among the most common workplace injuries. They can result from various hazards, including cuts, abrasions, impacts, and chemical exposures. Hence, finding the correct glove size ensures optimal comfort and tactility and plays a crucial role in preventing workplace injuries.

Part 3: How to Measure Your Hand for Gloves

Step 1: Measure the Width of Your Hand

To determine your glove size, wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of your hand, just below your knuckles, excluding your thumb. This measurement should be taken on your dominant hand, which is your right hand if you’re right-handed and vice versa.

Step 2: Measure the Length of Your Hand

Next, measure from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your hand. You should use the larger two measurements to determine your proper glove size.

Step 3: Refer to a Glove Size Chart

After obtaining your measurements, refer to a glove size chart to find your ideal size. Typically, the sizes are indicated by both number and letter:

• If your hand measures 6.5 – 7 inches, choose size 7, Small.
• If your hand measures 7.5 – 8 inches, choose size 8, Medium.
• If your hand measures 8.5 – 9 inches, choose size 9, Large.
• If your hand measures 9.5 – 10 inches, choose size 10, XL.
• If your hand measures 10.5 – 11 inches, choose size 11, XXL.

It is important to note that glove sizing charts may vary by manufacturer. Always check for a size chart on your browsing product page, or contact the retailer for further advice.

Part 4: The Role of Different Glove Types in Safety

Mechanical Gloves

Mechanical gloves are designed to provide reliable protection from cuts and abrasions. They are particularly useful in industrial environments, where workers often come into contact with oily materials.

AlphaTec® Solutions

Understanding complex chemical interactions is crucial when protecting against chemical hazards. AlphaTec® solutions offer protection against various chemical interactions, reducing permeation, degradation, and penetration.

RINGERS® Gloves

RINGERS® gloves are designed to protect workers from impact injuries in various industries, including oil and gas, mining, and manufacturing. These gloves meet the ANSI/ISEA 138-2019 standard, indicating superior impact protection.

Disposable Gloves

Disposable gloves are engineered with proprietary technologies to maintain comfort and productivity. They are ideal for high-touch, multi-purpose, robust, high-risk, and controlled environment applications.

Conclusion

Measuring your hand for the perfect glove fit may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it becomes a breeze.

Remember that the right glove size contributes significantly to your safety and productivity, especially in industrial settings.

So grab that measuring tape, follow our guide, and ensure you’re well-protected with the perfect glove fit!