Beekeeping Gloves
Beekeeping is a wonderful hobby but it comes with some risks. Wearing the proper protective gear – such as appropriate beekeeping gloves, can help reduce stinging events. They come in a variety of materials and designs – each with its own pros and cons. In this article, I will share some of the most popular types of gloves for beekeeping, as well as, their advantages and limitations.
There is a part of the beekeeping community that insists on wearing little protective beekeeping clothing – or no protection at all – including bee gloves! This is your choice but it is not a risk I am willing to take and I do not recommend it for beginners in my classes.
Why Do Beekeepers Wear Gloves?
As a beekeeper myself, I know my hands are used to manipulate parts of the beehive during hive inspections. Bees are attracted to movement so that makes our hands a moving target.
Personally, I think bee stings to the fingers hurt worse than some other locations so I am pro-glove. I always wear some type of bee gloves in the bee yard.
Gloves are just one safety tip that makes beekeeping less dangerous. They also provide a barrier between your skin and sticky substances like bee propolis.
However, it is the peace of mind that beekeeper gloves gives the beekeeper that is most valuable to me. It is easier to focus on the task at hand when you feel that you are somewhat protected from stingers.
Best Beekeeping Gloves
How do you choose the best beekeeping glove for you? It depends on which one makes you feel the most comfortable and at ease. Fit matters.
You may need to try several to find the one that has the qualities you most desire. All have pros and cons – none are perfect for everyone.
You must weigh the qualities to choose those that give you the protection, dexterity and comfort that you want. Most beekeepers have more than one style and use them for different situations.
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Leather Beekeeping Gloves (Cowhide or Goatskin)
Leather is a traditional favorite that has been the preferred choice of gloves for beekeepers for years. They are valued for their durability and sting protection.
Leather bee gloves are usually made of cowhide or you can choose more supple goat-skin gloves. As a former goat owner – I can’t bring myself to wear them but they are very nice.
The cuffs of some leather bee gloves have elastic at the wrists to keep bees out. They provide protection to the whole hand and wrist but do have some challenges. I find them a bit heavy and stiff for everyday use.
Pros
- durable – long lasting
- superior resistance to stings – nothing is sting proof
- protects hands from wood splinters – hive tool slips, etc
- good grip-with the right fit
Cons
- don’t breathe well – can be hot
- may be stiff until broken in
- heavier, thicker – may cause dexterity problems for some beekeepers
Dishwashing Gloves for Beekeeping
Dishwashing gloves are actually made to perform a wide variety of tasks around the home. They are made of rubber, nitrile or latex and come in various sizes and thicknesses.
They are an economical option for beekeepers who do not want to bother with cleaning beekeeper gloves. However, to have good dexterity – you have to get them to fit very well. If they are too loose, you may drop a frame of bees – not good.
Pros
- hygienic – excellent way to avoid spreading disease (like AFB) between hives
- easy to get on and off
- inexpensive
- no clean up
Cons
- sizing and fit is important
- not environmentally friendly
- hands may sweat during hot weather beekeeping chores
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves are not designed for beekeepers but they a popular choice and my favorite. They fit snugly but are still flexible (think about those gloves in the doctor’s office- the thicker ones).
Nitrile gloves are not sting proof but they do offer some protection from bee stings – especially to the backs of your hands.
They come in different thicknesses or gauges so keep that in mind when shopping. I really love nitrile gloves with long cuffs but they can be hard to find.
Pros
- excellent dexterity – easy of frame manipulation
- lightweight and comfortable to wear
- some sting protection
Cons
- less durability – must be replaced more often
- does not offer 100% sting protection
- may be short and not offer enough wrist protection
- sweaty hands (use cotton liners to help with this)
Ventilated Bee Gloves
Ventilated beekeeping gloves are available in a variety of materials from leather to synthetic materials. These are great for beekeepers living in hot climates.
The mesh panel near the wrists allow some air flow in to cool sweaty hands. I honestly could not wear leather bee gloves during summer unless they are ventilated.
Pros
- ventilated mesh increases air flow to reduce heat and moisture build up
- light weight compared to traditional leather
- good protection against stings
Cons
- not as durable as regular leather gloves
- stings possible through the mesh area
- may not protect hands from injury as well as thicker ones
Gauntlet Gloves
Gauntlet gloves have long extended cuffs that offer additional protection to the arms. In commercial operations, like migratory beekeepers, where many hives are being handled at once – gauntlet gloves offer more protection.
They do the same for hobby beekeepers working with especially defensive or aggressive bees. They are also a suitable bee glove choice for children interested in beekeeping.
Pros
- additional protection to forearms
- good option for beekeepers with highly defensive colonies
Cons
- extended cuff may restrict mobility
- thicker and heavier than other types
- can be hot if not ventilated
Key Factors When Selecting Gloves for Beekeeping
There is no one perfect choice of gloves for every beekeeper. What is most important to you? Are you willing to sacrifice a little comfort for more sting protection?
Or maybe good dexterity is more important that 100% protection? That is personal preference and a decision you must make.
- fit – comfort
- durability
- protection
- breathability
- protection due to allergic reactions
- budget
If you possibly can, try on different types of beekeeping gloves before you buy them. How do they fit you-are they comfortable – would you be able to get a frame out of the hive while wearing them.
How much protection do you need? It’s okay to start out with the most protective gloves. It is good to have a leather pair on hand for difficult situations.
Due to the cost of beekeeping at startup, expenses may also be a consideration. You can get by with cheaper disposable gloves at first, if you wish.
FAQs
Personal preference plays a role in choosing a favorite glove for beekeeping. However, nitrile disposable gloves are some of the most popular. They offer some protection from stings and are lightweight.
Some beekeepers don’t wear gloves because they feel the loss of dexterity is not worth the protection.
The most sting resistant beekeeper gloves would be thick leather. However, they are also stiff and harder to use.
Final Words
As with any of your protective wear, be sure to clean your bee gloves periodically. If they are reusable, let them dry completely before storing flat. For most of us, beekeeping is supposed to be a safe enjoyable experience. Choosing the right gloves for beekeeping is an important step toward success.