Latex gloves are often preferred by healthcare providers since they provide the highest level of elasticity, comfort and fit. Surgeons often prefer latex gloves because they offer greater precision with high tactile sensitivity.

Despite latex’s advantages, latex allergies have become more common, so many healthcare providers are opting for latex-free glove options such as vinyl, nitrile or chloroprene.

Vinyl gloves, which are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), are usually the cheapest latex-free gloves. However, many prefer to use higher-end gloves such as nitrile gloves. Nitrile gloves are often preferred since these non-latex gloves best resemble the stretchy feel of latex gloves and are also highly durable and puncture resistant.

Another difference to consider when deciding between latex and latex-free gloves is the protection offered by each type of material. In general, latex gloves offer the best protection against bacteria and viruses, while synthetic gloves provide better chemical protection. Of the different types of latex-free gloves, nitrile gloves offer a higher degree of protection against viruses as well as protection against chemicals.