As firefighters embark on their journey from the firefighter’s entrance exam to the dynamic challenges of a full-time firefighter, the significance of proper gear, especially gloves, cannot be overstated. From the initial trial by fire of entrance exams to the intricate demands of extrication, the versatility of work gloves, this article is your compass in selecting the best hand protection for each mission.
Table of Contents
1. Firefighter Entrance Exam Gloves
When seeking the ideal firefighter physical ability test glove, prioritizing comfort, fit, grip, and dexterity is paramount. These gloves serve as the first line of defense during rigorous entrance exams (whether the T-PAT or the CPAT), requiring a delicate balance of tactile sensitivity and protection.
Wearing these gloves during training sessions is equally crucial, allowing candidates to acclimate to the feel and functionality, ensuring familiarity and confidence come test day. In the demanding world of firefighting, where every detail matters, the right entrance and exam gloves become more than gear—they become an extension of a firefighter’s skill and readiness.
- Dexterity: Look for gloves that allow precise finger movements, as the entrance exam often involves tasks requiring fine motor skills. Dexterity is crucial for handling various tools and equipment.
- Heat Resistance: Since the entrance exam might involve simulated fire scenarios, choose gloves with heat-resistant materials to protect your hands from potential heat exposure. Ensure they meet relevant safety standards.
- Grip: Opt for gloves with a reliable grip to handle different surfaces and tools effectively. A slip-resistant design is essential for tasks that mimic real-world firefighting challenges.
- Durability: The gloves should be durable enough to withstand the physical demands of the entrance exam. They may be subjected to challenging conditions, so durability is key to ensuring they last throughout the entire evaluation process.
- Fit: A snug and comfortable fit is crucial. Ill-fitting gloves can hinder movement and compromise dexterity. Ensure the gloves provide a secure fit without being too tight or restrictive.
- Protection: Seek gloves that offer protection against abrasions and minor impacts. The entrance exam may involve activities that put hands at risk, and having gloves with adequate protection is essential.
- Material: Consider the materials used in the gloves. Fire-resistant materials are a plus, but they are also breathable to prevent excessive sweating during physically demanding tasks.
- Compliance: Check if the gloves meet relevant safety standards and regulations. Compliance ensures that the gloves are designed to withstand the challenges specific to firefighting tasks.
Our Top Pick
Vgo - Heavy-Duty Synthetic Leather Work Gloves, Impact Protection Mechanic Gloves, Rigger Gloves, High Dexterity, Vibration Reduction, Touchscreen Capable
- VERSATILE APPLICATIONS – Perfect for power tools, construction, motorcycling, tactical and DIY heavy-duty works that require higher protection
- IMPACT & VIBRATION REDUCTION – 3D-structured PVC patches on the back for great impact protection; High dexterity EVA padding offering stereoscopic vibration
- 180° COVERED FINGERTIPS W/3D CUTTING – 45° angle cut at the finger junctions and pre-curved fingers ensure a tailored fit with amazing flexibility, breathability & comfort
- TOUCHSCREEN COMPATIBLE & SWEAT WIPING – Touchscreen capable thumb & index fingertips for smartphone control; Soft terry cloth with strong sweat absorption
- Machine washable for easy cleaning & maintenance
$32.98 at the time of publishing
Our Runner
Intra-FIT Medium Duty Extrication Recue Gloves, Cut Resistant, Oil & Water Resistant, EN388 Rate 4242XP/4131
- ANATOMICAL DESIGN: Anatomically designed Glove improves hand and finger dexterity
- ABRASION-RESISTANT:Synthetic Leather palm and finger material, high level abrasion-resistant
- ARMORTEX REINFORCED:Tough Armortex reinforced in the palm & thumb crotch area
- OIL & WATER RESISTANT:Yellow four-way stretchable fabric, oil and water repellent, comfortable, easy maintenance
$32.99 at the time of publishing
Budget-Friendly
Ironclad General Utility Work Gloves GUG, All-Purpose, Performance Fit, Durable, Machine Washable, (1 Pair) Black
- HIGH PERFORMANCE TASK SPECIFIC WORK GLOVE – The number one selling Ironclad work glove.
- HAND SAFETY – Thermoplastic rubber knuckle protection provides impact and abrasion protection across the knuckles. SECURE FIT – Adjustable Hook and Loop Closure provides a secure custom fit for ideal performance.
- SWEAT MANAGEMENT FEATURE – Terry cloth sweat wipe conveniently located on the back of the thumb allows you to stay focused on the job at hand with one wipe of the brow. MACHINE WASHABLE – Machine wash cool. Air drying is recommended in order to keep the size consistent with its original form from time of purchase
- ENGINEERED FIT – All Ironclad gloves are designed with our industry leading flawless fit system that defines up to 16 application driven measurements to provide best in class fit
at the time of publishing
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If You Would Like To Know How To Get Ahead of Your Competition, This Book Is For You.
2. Firefighting Gloves
As the cornerstone of a firefighter’s turnout gear, selecting the right gloves is paramount. Considerations extend beyond mere protection; they encompass factors such as comfort, fit, and dexterity, which are vital elements when facing the demanding challenges of the profession.
Whether it’s enduring sweaty palms during intense training sessions, ensuring comfort during extended work hours, or prioritizing the delicate balance between dexterity and durability, the right gloves are integral to a firefighter’s readiness.
Remember, these gloves are more than firefighter gear—they are the lifeline of a firefighter, and if they don’t meet your satisfaction, returning them to find the perfect pair is a step toward ensuring optimal safety and performance on the front lines of duty.
- Heat Resistance: Prioritize gloves with high heat resistance, as firefighters frequently encounter extreme temperatures. Look for gloves that withstand radiant heat, direct flame contact, and other thermal hazards.
- Protection: Choose gloves with robust protection against cuts, abrasions, and impact. Reinforced knuckles and palms are essential to shield hands from potential injuries during firefighting operations.
- Water Resistance: Firefighters often work in wet conditions, so opt for waterproof or water-resistant gloves to maintain dexterity and protection even when exposed to moisture
- Dexterity: Balance protection with dexterity. Seek gloves that allow for precise finger movements, enabling firefighters to handle tools, equipment and perform intricate tasks without hindrance.
- Grip: A reliable grip is crucial for handling tools, hoses, and other equipment in challenging conditions. Look for gloves with slip-resistant materials to ensure a secure hold in various situations.
- Comfort: Firefighters wear gloves for extended periods, so prioritize comfort. Choose gloves with ergonomic designs, adjustable wrist closures, and breathable materials to enhance overall comfort during prolonged use.
- Fit: Ensure a proper fit to prevent discomfort and maintain dexterity. Ill-fitting gloves can compromise a firefighter’s ability to perform tasks efficiently, so look for options that offer various sizing options.
- NFPA Compliance: Check if the gloves comply with relevant National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, such as NFPA 1971 for structural firefighting gloves. Compliance ensures that the gloves meet industry-recognized safety and performance criteria.
- Visibility: Opt for gloves with high-visibility features, such as reflective strips or bright colors. Enhanced visibility is crucial for maintaining situational awareness, especially in low-light or smoky conditions.
- Longevity: Consider the durability of the gloves. Firefighting gloves should withstand the rigorous demands of the profession, so choose options made from high-quality materials known for their durability.
Our Top Pick
Vanguard MK-1 Ultra NFPA Structural Hybrid Firefighting Glove
- 100% Kevlar
- PROTECTION Unprecedented 5 layers of 100% Kevlar knit for Premium Thermal, Cut & Puncture Resistance Cowhide reinforced back shell for long term Radiant Heat Resistance
- PERFORMANCE Multi-layer Kevlar Knit with Goatskin Palm provides Outstanding Flexibility, Grip and Dexterity Unique Sculpted Fingertip Design Provides Highest Level Tactility Intricate Sewing Construction for Highly Functional Tailored Fit Sewn Down Palm Layers for more Efficient Grip
- DURABILITY Premium Leather and 100% Kevlar for Rugged Construction Reinforced Thumb Crotch Protects High Wear Area Inner Liner Sewn and Bonded at the fingertips
- CERTIFIED COMPLIANT TO NFPA 1971
- Kangaroo Skin Version of MK-1 with enhanced Strength, Durability and Suppleness of this Legendary Naturally Water-Resistant Leather. Kangaroo Skin is ounce for ounce the most durable leather with 10 times the tensile strength of cowhide.
$130.00 at the time of publishing
Our Runner
Cestus Fire Attack, Structural Firefighter Gloves, Impact Extrication Gloves, NFPA 1971:2013
- NFPA 1971:2013
- Grip Control and Durability – Made with our in-house triple layer silicone printed Kevlar blend.
- Ergonomically Structured – High dexterity and motor control without durability compromise.
- 9 Layers of Protection – Modern material composition.
- Safety & Comfort – Designed in-house and data-driven to ensure quality.
$139.95 at the time of publishing
Budget-Friendly
Fire-Dex MES Exclusive Flex-Pro Hybrid Gloves, Structural Firefighter Glove
- Hybrid Knit Debris Cuff: Keep your hands free from debris with a secure glove to sleeve interface
- Increased Visibility: Reflective piping makes your hands more visible even in the lowest lite spaces
- Dexflex Fingers: Reduce restriction with naturally-bent fingers
- Rollover Fingertips: Tactical grip design with seamless fingertips
- Integrated Crawl Guard: Extra palm protection for increased comfort while crawling and climbing
- Maximum Dexterity 360°: Range of motion with a keystone thumb design
$121.99 at the time of publishing
3. Firefighter Auto Extrication Gloves
When selecting an auto-extrication glove, a firefighter should consider the following crucial features:
- Cut Resistance: Auto-extrication tasks involve working with sharp objects and materials. Choose gloves with high cut resistance to protect hands from sharp edges and potential injuries.
- Abrasion Resistance: Auto-extrication scenes may have abrasive surfaces. Select gloves with robust abrasion resistance to ensure durability and protect against wear and tear during various extrication operations.
- Dexterity: Given the need for intricate movements during auto-extrication, prioritize gloves that offer excellent dexterity. This allows firefighters to manipulate tools and handle complex tasks with precision.
- Impact Protection: Look for gloves with impact-resistant features, especially on the knuckles and palms. This helps safeguard hands from potential impacts during extrication activities.
- Heat Resistance: Auto-extrication may involve operations near hot surfaces or vehicles. Choose gloves with heat-resistant materials to protect against radiant heat and potential burns.
- Grip: A secure grip is essential for handling tools and equipment in challenging extrication scenarios. Opt for gloves with a reliable grip, ensuring that hands remain steady and can perform tasks effectively.
- Wrist Closure: Select gloves with a secure wrist closure system to prevent debris from entering and ensure a snug fit. This feature helps maintain the overall integrity of the gloves during extrication tasks.
- Visibility: High-visibility features, such as reflective strips or bright colors, enhance visibility in low-light conditions commonly encountered during extrication operations.
- Water Resistance: Auto-extrication scenes may involve fluids, making water-resistant or waterproof gloves beneficial for maintaining hand protection and dexterity in wet conditions.
- NFPA Compliance: Check if the gloves comply with relevant safety standards, such as NFPA 1951 for technical rescue operations. Ensuring NFPA compliance guarantees that the gloves meet recognized industry standards for performance and safety.
Our Top Pick
HexArmor | FireFighter Extrication-Rescue Impact Safety Gloves | EXT Rescue Series
- Constructed with proprietary TPR impact protection system designed to dissipate forceful blows from objects that have shifted abruptly or have been dropped
- Keep a strong grip when oil or water is present at the scene with our proprietary, durable TP-X palm constructed with reinforced stitching that provides ultimate durability and a flexible firm grip
- Skip the underglove with certainty that your hand will not come in contact with any unknown liquids as our proprietary waterproof barrier, which meets OSHA bloodborne pathogen requirements, is sewn into glove so that it won’t pull out when glove is removed.
- Find a secure and percise fit with a Neoprene cuff paired with a Velcro closure and extra durability with quality high-visibility materials that feature double-stitched reinforced seams and thumb crotch.
$69.49 at the time of publishing
Our Runner
Cestus Deep III Barrier, Waterproof Firefighter Extrication Gloves, Level A5 Cut Resistant, Kevlar-Stitched, Impact Gloves
- ANSI Cut Level A5 – Highly cut resistant made for heavy duty work. The palm side of the extrication glove has a dense cut liner.
- EN388 3X44FP – High abrasion resistance, highest puncture resistance, Highest tear resistance, and highest TDM-100 cut level F.
- Certified for ASTM F1670/F1670M-17a.
- Premium PVC Blend – The rough red palm is water, oil, and petrochemical resistant and double-stitched with Kevlar. Enhance your grip control while maintaining durability when it matters.
- Safety & Comfort – Designed in-house to ensure quality. Made with field data and feedback from fire departments nationwide. Ideal for heavy duty extrication work in wet or oily environments. The PVC palm is made to be abrasive and durable, which means it will take some use to break it in.
$62.95 at the time of publishing
Budget-Friendly
HexArmor Cut And Heat Resistant Impact Protection Leather Work Gloves | Chrome SLT ® Series 4060
- Resist metals and sharps with an interior aramid protective material that provides 360-degree ANSI/ISEA Level A5 cut resistance over the whole hand
- Protect against smash and impact injuries with sewn-in, hi-vis back-of-hand impact guards that dissipate forceful blows over a large area
- Feel comfortable all day with a goatskin leather palm that provides a traditional style and a firm grip in dry or light oil situations
- Experience a secure, comfortable fit with high-quality materials and a SlipFit cuff with a hook and loop closure
- Hands are protected from contact heat up to EN407 Level 2 and arc flash up to HRC Level 4 ATPV:46/Cal/cm2
$32.49 at the time of publishing
Best Bang for Your Buck
Cestus DM Hybrid
- EN388 3242 – Tested for abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture resistance.
- Polycarbonate Knuckles – Increased impact durability.
- Impact Reducing – Naturally curved TPR on fingers to reduce the onset of hand fatigue.
- Anti-Vibration Palm – Made with structured silicone gel to disperse energy from power tools.
- Safety & Comfort – Designed in-house to ensure quality. Based on onsite field data and industrial client feedback.
$32.99 at the time of publishing
In conclusion
Remember, the right firefighter gloves are not just an accessory; they are your trusty companions on the front lines, enabling you to face each task with confidence and resilience.
If, after the purchase, your firefighter gloves don’t meet the high standards demanded by your duty, don’t hesitate to return them and continue the search for the pair that perfectly aligns with your needs.
When it comes to firefighting gloves, the pursuit of excellence is not just a choice; it’s a commitment to ensuring that your hands are equipped with the very best.
Stay safe, stay protected, and may your gloves be the steadfast allies you can rely on in every firefighting endeavor.
