Gel Gloves

About Gel Gloves

Gel gloves are specialist hand protection designed to reduce the harmful effects of vibration and impact when operating power tools and equipment. Featuring strategically placed gel padding in the palms and fingers, these gloves absorb shock and dampen vibration transmission, helping to prevent Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) whilst maintaining excellent grip and dexterity. Modern gel gloves combine impact protection with breathable, flexible materials that allow natural hand movement throughout the working day.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional gel gloves from leading manufacturers like DeWalt, engineered to meet the demanding requirements of tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts. Whether you're using impact drivers, grinders, sanders, or demolition equipment, quality gel gloves provide essential protection against cumulative vibration exposure whilst offering the tactile sensitivity needed for precision work and tool control.

Applications

Gel gloves are essential PPE for professionals and trades regularly exposed to vibrating tools and equipment:

• Construction Workers: Operating hammer drills, impact drivers, and demolition equipment
• Carpenters and Joiners: Using sanders, routers, nail guns, and other power tools during woodworking
• Groundworkers: Handling breakers, compacting equipment, and petrol-powered machinery
• Maintenance Engineers: Working with grinders, impact wrenches, and vibrating industrial equipment
• Electricians: Using power tools in confined spaces where hand protection is critical
• Mechanics and Vehicle Technicians: Operating impact guns and workshop power tools
• DIY Enthusiasts: Undertaking home improvement projects involving extended power tool use

Choosing The Right Gel Gloves

Gel Padding Coverage: Consider where gel protection is positioned. Full-palm coverage offers maximum vibration dampening for heavy-duty applications, whilst targeted padding at specific zones may provide better flexibility for detailed work.

Size and Fit: Proper fit is crucial for both safety and comfort. Gloves that are too large can bunch up and compromise grip, whilst those too small restrict movement and circulation. Measure your hand according to the manufacturer's sizing guide and look for adjustable wrist closures for a secure fit.

Material and Durability: Quality synthetic leather offers excellent durability and grip for demanding site conditions. Check for reinforcement at fingertips and high-wear areas to ensure extended glove life.

Dexterity Requirements: Balance protection with tactile sensitivity. Thicker gel padding provides more vibration reduction but may reduce fine motor control for handling small fixings and components.

Additional Features: Touchscreen-compatible fingertips, breathable mesh panels, and machine-washable construction add practical value for daily professional use.

Safety Information

Gel gloves significantly reduce vibration transmission but should form part of a comprehensive hand safety strategy. The HSE recommends limiting exposure time to vibrating tools regardless of protective equipment worn, as gloves alone cannot completely eliminate HAVS risk. Inspect gel gloves regularly for signs of wear or compressed padding, which reduces protective effectiveness. Replace gloves when gel becomes hard, cracked, or significantly compressed. Gel gloves are not suitable for electrical work requiring insulated gloves meeting specific voltage ratings, and should not be worn near machinery where entanglement risks exist unless specifically designed for such applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do gel gloves really help prevent Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome?

Gel gloves significantly reduce vibration transmission and help minimise HAVS risk, but they're not a complete solution. The HSE emphasises that controlling exposure time, maintaining tools properly, and using low-vibration equipment are equally important. MyToolShed.co.uk recommends gel gloves as part of an overall vibration management strategy rather than a standalone prevention measure.

How long do gel gloves typically last?

Quality gel gloves from brands like DeWalt typically provide 6-12 months of regular professional use. Lifespan depends on usage intensity and working conditions. Replace gloves when you notice compressed or hardened gel padding, torn materials, worn fingertips, or reduced shock absorption during tool operation.

Can I use gel gloves with touchscreen devices?

Many modern gel gloves available at MyToolShed.co.uk feature touchscreen-compatible fingertips that allow smartphone and tablet operation without removal. Check individual product specifications to confirm this feature, as not all models include conductive materials in the fingertips.