Both latex and nitrile examination gloves deliver reliable barrier protection, but they behave differently in practice — and the right choice usually comes down to the task and the people wearing them.
Latex
Natural rubber latex offers excellent elasticity and tactile sensitivity, which makes it a long-standing favourite for procedures that demand fine control. The trade-off is that latex proteins can trigger allergic reactions in a minority of users.
Nitrile
Nitrile is synthetic, so it carries no natural rubber latex proteins. It also resists punctures and a broader range of chemicals, which is why laboratories and industrial settings tend to standardise on it.
A practical rule of thumb
Choose nitrile where chemical exposure, puncture risk or latex allergy is a concern. Choose latex where tactile feedback matters most and allergy has been ruled out. If you are unsure which grade suits your operation, send us the details and we will advise.