Sport Products
Diving and snorkeling are incredible ways to explore the underwater world, but without the right gear, you can find yourself facing unexpected challenges. One such challenge is the cold or abrasive nature of the water itself. That's where diving gloves come in! Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting out, proper hand protection is essential for comfort and safety while submerged. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about diving gloves from different types available and key features to consider when purchasing to the benefits of using them and our top recommendations. So lets dive in (pun intended)!
Diving gloves are categorized into various styles, each designed for specific conditions and purposes. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
Description: These are probably the most popular type of diving glove on the market. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber known for its excellent insulation properties it keeps your hands warm even in cold water. Theyre also flexible, allowing for good dexterity while maintaining adequate protection from scrapes and stings. Thickness: Typically range from 1mm to 5mm. Thicker gloves provide more warmth but reduce dexterity. For tropical waters or short dives, thinner (1-3mm) neoprene gloves are often sufficient. In colder environments or longer dives, thicker (4-5mm) gloves may be necessary. Pros: Affordable, widely available, excellent insulation, comfortable. Cons: Can tear easily if snagged on sharp objects, can become stiff in very cold water, less durable than other types of gloves.
Description: Kevlar is a synthetic fiber known for its extreme strength and heat resistance. Diving gloves made with Kevlar offer superior protection against cuts, abrasions, and punctures from rocks, coral, or marine life. They are often used by technical divers working in challenging environments. Thickness: Generally 3mm to 5mm thick. Pros: Extremely durable, excellent cut-resistance, good dexterity despite thickness. Cons: More expensive than neoprene gloves, not as insulating, can feel stiff and bulky initially.
Description: These are the thinnest type of diving gloves, typically used for warm water snorkeling or freediving when minimal hand protection is needed. They offer very little insulation but provide a smooth surface to minimize drag in the water. Thickness: Usually less than 1mm thick. Pros: Lightweight, flexible, inexpensive, reduce drag. Cons: Offer virtually no warmth or abrasion resistance, can cause allergic reactions for some people.
Description: Combining neoprene with nylon and other materials, trilaminate gloves offer a good balance of insulation, durability, and dexterity. They are often used in cold water diving when comfort is paramount. Thickness: Typically range from 3mm to 7mm thick. Pros: Good warmth-to-dexterity ratio, durable, comfortable. Cons: More expensive than neoprene gloves, less common than other types.
Description: Similar in concept to Kevlar gloves, leather diving gloves offer excellent cut and abrasion resistance. They are typically used for technical diving or salvage work where sharp objects may be encountered. Thickness: Generally range from 3mm to 7mm thick. Pros: Highly durable, good dexterity. Cons: Not insulating, can become stiff in cold water, require regular maintenance (oil conditioning) to prevent cracking.
Beyond the type of glove you choose, there are several key features to look for that will ensure a comfortable and safe diving experience:
As mentioned earlier, thicker gloves provide more warmth but reduce dexterity. It's important to consider the water temperature youll be diving in and how long your dives typically last when choosing a glove thickness. Remember, cold hands can quickly lead to fatigue and decreased performance underwater. Best snorkeling masks for clear vision are also essential for enjoying your dive!
Gloves take a beating during dives they rub against rocks, coral, and other objects. Look for gloves made with high-quality materials that will hold up to repeated use. Kevlar and leather offer the best durability, while neoprene is less durable but more affordable. Buy diving equipment online from reputable sources to ensure you're getting a quality product.
Proper fit is crucial for both comfort and dexterity. Gloves that are too tight will restrict blood flow and reduce your ability to manipulate objects underwater, while gloves that are too loose will allow water to flush in, reducing warmth and increasing drag. Look for gloves with reinforced palms and fingers that provide a snug but comfortable fit.
The wrist closure is the most important part of any diving glove it prevents water from flushing into your sleeves and keeps your hands warm. Common closures include:
Gloves with textured palms provide better grip on objects underwater, making it easier to handle equipment or collect samples. Look for gloves with a non-slip rubberized palm coating for maximum traction.
While some divers prefer to go gloveless, there are numerous benefits to using diving gloves: