When looking for water-proof gloves (or any other clothing for that matter) it can sometimes be difficult to determine what is actually water-proof and what is simply water-resistant or water-repellent… Do you know the difference between water-resistant, water-repellent and water-proof? Understanding these terms can help you decide which gloves are right for you AND if you actually need fully water-proof gloves or if a water-resistant glove will do.
The difference between the various levels of water-resistance is in the treatment, coating and material.
Water-Repellent Treatment
The simplest method of waterproofing involves spraying the glove or material with a silicone or PVC based treatment, which creates a barrier to repel liquids.
While this is the quickest and least expensive technique of waterproofing, it also has the shortest lifespan and is the least effective. It is most beneficial in work gloves designed for used for other purposes such as cut resistance or impact resistance that is only at risk of a splash or sprinkling of water on the odd occasion.
Single-layer Solution
Picture a pair of dishwashing gloves – its a little like wearing a plastic bag over your hand, they don’t let anything in. They are typically made from a single later of material that completely stops water getting through. These types of gloves are ideal if your hands are being fully submerged in water and you need 100% water-proof protection. However, with 100% water-proof protection comes low dexterity and they don’t allow for delicate work or handling small items. The way this material is designed to keep water out, also keeps moisture in, so they are not breathable. Any sweat or moisture build up remains on your hands and can be dangerous if you’re working in very cold conditions.
Double-layer Solution
A double-layer glove features an outer layer treated with a water-repellent spray and an inner layer of PVC or Polyurethane, both breathable and moisture-wicking materials. This option offers higher dexterity and is less bulky than waterproof dish gloves.
The two-layer solution is often used for running and hiking gear. Consider the difference between wearing a rubber rain jacket (single layer) and a windbreaker (double layer). Both provide weather protection, but the windbreaker is far lighter and more maneuverable.
Triple-later Solution
A triple-layer solution is the best option for a highly waterproof glove that also offers breathability and dexterity. This involves an inner moisture-wicking layer for comfort and breathability, a middle layer for water-proofing, and an outer layer for additional protection from handling rough materials.
The middle layer in this set up is also called the membrane and allows water vapour to escape (like sweat and moisture from your hands) but prevents water droplets from getting in.
Choosing the right waterproof glove
The triple-layer solution – being the best in water-proofing technology – is typically also the most expensive, and if you’re paying the price you want to make sure you’re getting a quality glove!
The easiest way to test the quality of a water-proof glove is to try them on. If you hear a crinkling sound or can feel obvious layers in the glove, they are likely not the best quality. The way the layers are connected directly affects the glove’s quality, as layers that move independently of one another diminish the glove’s quality, comfort and dexterity.