The "Thicker is Better" Myth: Why Over-Gloving Could Be a Safety Risk

In the world of PPE, there is a common instinct: If a 4 mil glove is good, a 6 mil glove must be safer. While heavy-duty gloves have their place in high-abrasion environments, "over-gloving" for precision tasks can actually create new hazards. Today, we’re breaking down the science of tactile sensitivity and why the right mil-thickness matters more than the maximum thickness.

The Danger of "Hand Fatigue"

When a worker uses a glove that is too thick for a dexterous task—like handling small parts, using a touchscreen, or performing lab work—their hand muscles have to work twice as hard to fight against the resistance of the material.

• The Result: Hand fatigue leads to slower reaction times and a higher likelihood of dropping tools or slipping.

• The Solution: Our 3 mil GL-N103EPF gloves. These provide the barrier protection you need with the high-dexterity "second skin" feel that keeps workers' hands fresh and precise all shift long.

Grip vs. Bulk

A common reason people reach for thicker gloves is they think they’ll get a better grip. In reality, grip is about surface texture and material quality, not thickness.

• The Fact: A high-quality 4 mil ProWorks® GL-N135F glove often provides better grip on oily or wet surfaces than a bulky, low-quality thick glove.

• The Benefit: By using a 4 mil glove for general tasks, you maintain the "feel" of the object you are holding, which prevents over-gripping (another cause of muscle strain).

When to Actually Go Thick

So, when do you need the extra mils?

• Chemical Exposure: If your team is handling harsh cleaning agents or solvents.

• Heavy Maintenance: When protection against snags, tears, and rough metal edges is the primary goal.

• Prolonged Use: When a glove needs to last for several hours of rugged movement.

Finding Your Facility’s "Sweet Spot"

Choosing the right thickness isn’t just about cost—it’s about matching the tool to the hand. Most facilities find their "sweet spot" with a mix of 3 mil for precision and 4 mil for versatility.