The truth of the matter is that a great many professional beekeepers go without gloves. There is actually a good reason for this. Dexterity and comfort are seen by many to be top priorities. The beekeeper could find themself performing all sorts of tricky and fiddly tasks, from carefully removing frames to marking the queen bee at the start of the season. When it comes to these jobs, gloves can often get in the way, being necessarily large and composed of a thick material (there would be literally no point to them otherwise).
However, if you’re a new beekeeper, are dealing with particularly aggressive bees, or just do not appreciate being stung, your hands are, excepting perhaps your face, the part of your body that you will most want to protect.
A pair of beekeeping gloves will always be working with this trade off between protection and dexterity. You will want to have a wieldy pair of hands for getting in and about your hives and carrying out all of the necessary beekeeping roles, but you’ll also want gloves that protect you effectively from stings – it’s as simple as that.
For this reason, many beekeeping gloves aim to promise all things to all men, and offer the wearer dexterity and protection, despite the fact these two elements are fundamentally in conflict. Getting savvy about bee gloves is therefore a great way to see through all of the marketing fog. I have therefore put together a handy buying guide with 14 of the best beekeeping gloves on the market. But before I start, a little info on the materials that beekeeping gloves are typically made of will help you choose the pair that are right for you.
Leather Gloves
The main material for non-disposable beekeeping gloves is good old-fashioned leather. However, even within leather there is some considerable variety and options for the beekeeper to choose from, again keeping in mind the protection-dexterity trade off.
The two main leathers from which beekeeping gloves are made are cow leather and goat leather. Very roughly speaking, cow leather, being the thicker of the two, provides more protection and less dexterity whereas goat leather has the edge on dexterity but is usually thinner. As you will notice from my list, the majority of beekeeping gloves seem to be composed of goatskin. This is likely a reflection of most beekeepers hoping to strike a healthy balance between protection and dexterity.
There are of course different kinds of each of these leathers and so it’s perfectly possible to get the balance just right for you. Yet keeping the general facts in mind will help you pick the right gloves.
Nitrile Gloves
One of the main problems with leather gloves is they can be difficult to keep clean. Think of the heavy-duty gardening and DIY gloves that are commonly used and you get the idea. These thick, roughly textured gloves collect dirt on the outside and can become clammy and sweaty on the inside. For this reason, many beekeepers prefer a pair of nitrile disposable gloves, which might be something you would like to consider.
Naturally, nitrile gloves are thinner than either cow or goat leather gloves, and this of course means less protection. However, true to the trade off, you will find an increased dexterity and sensitivity in wearing them. A major benefit is also that, although they are thinner, there is something about the synthetic material that suggests to the bees that they are not worth stinging. This might be because bees have evolved to sting animals and recognize the leather as an animal-like substance that can be stung. This is not to say that you will receive no stings with nitrile gloves (and they will of course be less protective when you do) but you will perhaps receive less than you’d think.
Nitrile gloves can be washed a few times for reuse but will of course ultimately have to be thrown away. If you would like a pair of gloves that can be used pretty much for life, then this is not the option for you.
Without further ado, below is my list of the best reusable beekeeping gloves on the market for 2024.
- INNOVATIVE, SAFE, AND EASY TO USE: Our Sting Stopper ventilated mesh gloves are the updated standard in beekeeping safety and ease of use for backyard and commercial beekeeping. Made with premium goatskin leather and equipped with a 3 and 4-layer vented hand that keeps air flowing in but keeps stingers out.
- SHORT SLEEVES, ZERO BUNCHING: Our gloves feature an updated design with shorter sleeves that easily overlap with a beekeeping suit or jacket sleeves, making it easier to wear. Say goodbye to the frustrating bunching that happens with long sleeves.
- ADJUSTABLE FIT WITH DUAL FASTENERS: We get beekeeping supplies wear out, so we’ve incorporated robust elastic bands and extra-wide Velcro cuffs. This dual system ensures a snug, secure fit that can be easily adjusted according to your preference and won’t wear out.
- QUALITY GOATSKIN LEATHER: Made with the best, goatskin leather is the beekeeper’s favorite and is the only type we use. Goat skin is soft enough to give you dexterity and feel when lifting frames but tough enough to prevent bee stings.
- YOUR GLOVES, YOUR COLOR: Whether you are a traditional beekeeper or like something new, you and your bees are covered. Both gloves have the same top-notch design but are available in Olive Green or Beekeeper White to fit your needs.
- PREMIUM BEEKEEPING GLOVES | PREMIUM GOATSKIN LEATHER| LONG CANVAS SLEEVE | REINFORCED AT WRIST
- MAXIMUM STING RESISTANCE | ELASTIC CUFFS | VENTED WHITE FOAM MESH |
- UNISEX DESIGN FOR MEN & WOMEN | COMFORTABLE | DOUBLE STITCHED | DESIGNED FOR COMMERCIAL USE
- BUILT TO LAST | HOBBYIST | ROOFTOP | COMMERCIAL BEEKEEPER IN MIND
- TAILORED FIT | UNIQUELY DESIGNED | LIGHT WEIGHT | ELASTIC GAUNTLET
- Effective Protection: A thick beekeeping gloves can keep your body sting free, and the extended sleeve provides more protection to your forearms, which can ensure you remain as productive as possible.
- High Quality: Our beekeeping gloves are made of premium goatskin leather and durable canvas, which are not only soft and comfortable but also have maximum scratch resistance, so you can use them for a long time.
- Thoughtful Design: Goatskin leather glove is perfect fit for your hand, which allow you better handle your bees, durable long canvas sleeve is breathable and cool, and elastic cuffs can keep the beekeeper’s glove firmly on your hands.
- Perfect Size: The size of the palm is 4.7 × 7.87 inches and the length of entire glove is 19.7 inches, which can generally fit men and women.
- Wide Application: Our goatskin leather beekeeper’s glove can not only be used to against stings, but also for cut-resistant gloves, heat-resistant gloves, camping gloves, blacksmith gloves and car mechanic gloves.
- High Quality – Premium Bee Control Goatskin Gloves make beekeeping easier and more efficient
- Material – Durable cotton sleeves and goat skin hands for flawless protection, comfort and resilience
- Coverage – Cotton sleeves provide total arm coverage with elastic closure
- Size – Medium (M) gloves are roughly 8″ in length with an 11″ sleeve (total 19″ long). The palm circumference is 9″
- Appearance – Goatskin, off-white color blends well with typical beekeeping gear and keeps low profile
- Beekeeping gloves made of premium goatskin leather + vent long canvas sleeve with elastic cuffs
- Goatskin leather beekeeping gloves offer unparalleled flexibility and maximum protection,unisex desigh,comfortable
- Beekeeper essential equipment for protecting against the stings of angry bees
- Size: hand width-9.65″, hand length-8.07″, cuff width-15.2″, total length-23.23″ for unisex adult
- 100% safe or your refund! This is our unconditional guarantee! If you are not 100% excited about bee gloves, we promise to provide you with a full refund in time!
- UNMATCHED STING PROTECTION: Crafted from premium goatskin leather, our gloves offer a fortress-like shield against bees, wasps, and hornets. Designed for both men and women, this unisex design also includes additional leather layers on high-wear areas like the fingertips and palms for extra durability.
- INNOVATIVE NO-BUNCH SLEEVES: Say goodbye to annoying sleeve bunching. Our pioneering shorter canvas sleeves tuck neatly into your beekeeping suit or jacket, making your beekeeping experience smoother than ever.
- ROCK-SOLID CUFFS WITH DUAL FASTENERS: Our gloves feature Chuck Norris-approved elastic bands that are double the industry standard in thickness. Additionally, we’ve thrown in extra-wide Velcro straps for a secure, custom fit that outperforms the competition.
- PERSONALIZED COLOR AND SIZE CHOICES: Whether you prefer the tactical elegance of Olive Green or the classic appeal of Beekeeper White, we’ve got you covered. The leather will naturally stretch and soften for a custom fit, so it’s better to use our size chart and start small.
- All-Around Sting Protection: Our patent-pending ventilated sting-proof back using custom-molded SBR rubber mesh combined with a high-quality goatskin palm, creates beekeeping gloves that are flexible, lightweight, VERY breathable, and stretchy, yet have superior sting protection so a bee’s stinger won’t reach the skin, even when gripping items or bending the hand.
- Unmatched Dexterity: When it comes to beekeeping supplies, our premium bee gloves for men and women have not sacrificed the dexterity needed to perform delicate beekeeping tasks. The fine sensitivity in the fingertips allows you to manipulate small objects, make repairs, operate small tools, write notes, mark bee hives, and gently handle queen bees, while still protecting you from stings.
- Maximum Durability: When working with Apis Tactical beekeeping gloves, you won’t have to choose between durability and dexterity. After years of research and testing, we produced gloves that were made with beekeepers in mind. Our beekeeping gloves offer both using superior materials that withstand the rigors of beekeeping and will last season after season.
- Breathable & Comfortable: Our unique mesh allows for the highest degree of ventilation so that beekeepers’ hands stay cool and comfortable during long hours of work. Our bee-keeping gear is always made to perform, and the unique construction combined with the soft, supple goat leather is no exception. It isn’t bulky or cumbersome and feels great on your hands.
- Find Your Perfect Fit: To ensure the best fit possible, this bee keepers glove is made with a hook and loop strap that fastens securely around your wrist and is designed to be worn under the sleeves. It is available in 5 sizes: small, medium, large, XL, and XXL.
- PROFESSIONAL BEEKEEPING GLOVES: Specially designed beekeeping gloves for beekeepers, whether you are a professional beekeeper or just starting out, our bee keeping gloves are perfect for those who work with bees and provide full protection for your hands.
- SHEEPSKIN BEEKEEPING GLOVES: Our beekeeper gloves are made up of thick goatskin and breathable cotton spun long sleeves to ensure your hands are protected from stinging pain.
- WELL-MADE: Bee gloves are designed with reinforced stitching at the intersections and elastic cuffs for maximum durability.
- DESIGNED FOR COMFORT AND PROTECTION: Made of thick yet soft goatskin, the bee keeper gloves ensure you can wear them comfortably for long periods of time, and the selected long sleeve sails are made for sting resistance and breathability.
- A MUST-HAVE FOR ANY BEEKEEPING OPERATION: As an essential part of your beekeeping supplies, our bee gloves provide the protection and durability you need to safely and effectively manage your bee hive.
- [PROFESSIONAL]Beekeeing gauntlets built with Premium Goatskin Leather and long heavy duty canvas sleeves and elastic cuffs and very durable to ensure a longer lasting life span.
- [All-around Protection] This Beekeeper gauntlet with Extra Long, Thick ventilated Sleeve assured sting proof and will make you enjoy beekeeping by removing the fear when bees perching on it on your hands try to sting you.
- [UNISEXDESIGN& COMFORTABLE WEARING] Unique design with general size for both men and women, You will love the feel of it on your hand.which will make things feel very natural for you to handle the various tools. And elastic cuffs for a perfect and comfortable fit.
- [NOTE]Beekeepers essential equipment for protecting against the stings of angry bees.Please measure your hand size first and ensure accuracy.
- [PROMISE]If you’re not completely satisfied for any reason, contact us to arrange a return we will give you back your money or replace!
- All-Around Sting Protection: Our patent-pending ventilated back using custom-molded mesh combined with a top grain cowhide palm, creates beekeeping gloves that are flexible, lightweight, VERY breathable, and stretchy, yet have superior sting protection so a bee’s stinger is less likely to reach the skin, even when gripping items or bending the hand. With these Heavy Duty gloves, the protection continues up the forearm in a breathable gauntlet.
- Find Your Perfect Fit: To ensure the best fit possible, you MUST use the Size Chart and measure your hand. If your measurements are between sizes, go with the larger size. This bee keepers glove is made with a hook and loop strap that fastens securely around your arm. It is available in 6 sizes: extra-small, small, medium, large, XL, and XXL.
- Maximum Durability: Our Heavy Duty gloves are named that for a reason. These bee gloves for men and women are designed for hard work, heavy abuse, and the rigors of commercial beekeeping. Our small beekeeping gloves use superior materials like top grain cowhide leather that withstands whatever you can throw at it.
- Breathable & Comfortable: Our unique mesh allows for the highest degree of ventilation so that beekeepers’ hands stay cool and comfortable during long hours of work. Our bee-keeping gear is always made to perform, and the unique construction combined with the soft, yet durable top grain cowhide leather is no exception. It isn’t overly bulky or cumbersome and feels great on your hands.
- Sting Protection that Breathes: Our patent-pending ventilated sting-resistant back using custom-molded mesh combined with a high-quality goatskin palm, creates beekeeping gloves that are flexible, lightweight, VERY breathable, and stretchy, yet have superior sting protection so a bee’s stinger is less likely to reach the skin, even when gripping items or bending the hand.
- Find Your Perfect Fit: To ensure the best fit possible, you MUST use the Size Chart and measure your hand. If your measurements are between sizes, go with the larger size. These gloves are designed to fit tighter than normal beekeeping gloves, similar to modern mechanic-style gloves. It is available in 6 sizes: extra-small, small, medium, large, XL, and XXL.
- Unmatched Dexterity: We’ve chosen a fine grade of goatskin for the fingers and palms in order to promote a good balance between dexterity/feeling and durability. The fine sensitivity in the fingertips allows you to manipulate small objects, make repairs, operate small tools, write notes, mark bee hives, and gently handle queen bees (compared to most other beekeeping gloves). When it comes to beekeeping supplies, our premium bee gloves for men and women have not sacrificed the dexterity needed to perform delicate beekeeping tasks.
- Breathable & Comfortable: Our unique mesh allows for the highest degree of ventilation so that beekeepers’ hands stay cool and comfortable during long hours of work. The large holes allow for heat dissipation, even in hot weather. Our bee-keeping gear is always made to perform, and the unique construction combined with the soft, supple goat leather is no exception. It isn’t bulky or cumbersome and feels great on your hands.
- Professional beekeeper gloves with durable cow leather hands, reinforced and ventilated wrists, heavy duty canvas sleeves, and elastic cuffs
- Heavy-weight 50% cotton canvas / 50% cow leather composition provides unrivaled protection against bee stings
- Tailored fit with full-length sleeves, plus elastic cuffs to keep the gloves comfortably in place
- Unisex design for men and women
- Humble Bee supports not-for-profit organizations that encourage local beekeeping activities and promote bee conservation efforts
- Made of Durable Leather+ Durable Cotton Canvas Cloth.Very comfortable to wear
- Package included : 1 pair of Beekeeping Protective Gloves.
- Beekeeper essential equipment for protecting against the stings of angry bees.Please measure your hand size first and ensure accuracy.
- Beekeeper Gloves can protect you while giving you maximum flexibility for handling tools.
- Beware of other dangerous insects such as hornet when using the glove.
- 2 PAIRS PROFESSIONAL BEEKEEPING GLOVES: Crafted with premium goatskin leather in the palm area and featuring hard-wearing canvas sleeves with elastic design, our beekeeping gloves provide superior comfort for beekeepers.
- MULTIPLE SIZE CHOICE: Bee keeper gloves are available in 4 sizes, unisex design for both men and women, elastic cuffs hold the bee keeper gloves comfortably on your forearms, allowing you to maneuver your hive tools with ease for a more enjoyable beekeeping experience.
- BREATHABLE & COMFORTABLE: Made of canvas, the sleeves of these beekeeper gloves are sturdy and breathable to keep you comfortable and cool during long hours of wear.
- ENHANCED DURABILITY: The combination of high-quality materials ensures these bee gloves are sturdy and long-lasting, standing up to the rigors of beekeeping activities.
- VERSATILE USE: These bee keeping gloves are perfect for beginners and experienced apiarists alike, making them ideal for beekeeping enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals.
- Premium Material: Lawei beekeeping gloves are made of premium goatskin leather and durable canvas material, which are soft and comfortable to wear. They are also have maximum scratch resistance, so you can use them for a long time. Very suitable for hive maintenance, colony inspection, and honey harvesting.
- Effective Protection: Thick leather beekeeping gloves can help protect your body from stings, and the extended sleeve provides more protection to your forearms, which can ensure you remain as productive as possible. It provides unparalleled flexibility and maximum protection, unisex design. Please measure your hand size first and ensure accuracy.
- Breathable Design: Our goatskin leather glove is perfect fit for your hand, which allow you better handle your bees. Durable long canvas sleeve are breathable and cool, and elastic cuffs can keep the beekeeper’s glove firmly on your hands. Work in comfort for hours with these vented beekeeping gloves.
- Wide Application: These goatskin gloves are not only be applied against stings, but also suitable for cutting resistant gloves, heat resistant gloves, camping gloves, blacksmith gloves, gardening gloves, landscaping gloves, and car mechanic gloves. You can also give it as a gift to your friends, beekeepers and beginners who enjoy extracting honey.
- Package Included: You will receive 3 pairs beekeeper protective gloves, the size of the palm is 4.3W x 8L inches and the length of entire glove is 19 inches, which can generally fit men and women. Protect beekeepers to operate beekeeping tools and deal with bees without fear of being stung, making it an essential beekeeping item for professional beekeepers and beginners.
- 🐝 3 LAYERS, WATERPROOF GLOVES: Oz Armour’s three layers rubber beekeeping gloves are slip proof, stain & puncture-resistant, & waterproof. Our heavy-duty chemical resistant gloves are the perfect choice for various works.
- 🐝 ARM COVERAGE & PROTECTION : Our bee gloves ensure protection from stings, chemicals, & dirt. It provide total arm coverage & protection with elastic closure & heavy-duty canvas cloth material which is fully compatible with beekeeping suit.
- 🐝 FLEXIBLE, LIGHTWEIGHT & BREATHABILITY : Ergonomically rubber beekeeping gloves is made of genuine leather with its stretchy seamless knitted liner and lengthen high-elastic wrist cuff is snugly fit, comfortable and moisture free.
- 🐝 EASY MAINTENANCE : Maintain the pristine condition of your beekeeping gloves by cleaning them gently with a damp cloth & hand wash to maintain their original appearance. Our one-year warranty ensures you get lasting value for your purchase.
- 🐝 WIDELY APPLICABLE : Oz Armour’s beekeeping gloves are ideally used in apiaries, bee houses, orchards, bee colonies, farms, gardens and laboratories. It’s the special gift for apiarists, gardners, farmers, outdoor workers & beekeeping lovers.
- Professional beekeeper gloves with supple goat leather hands, ventilated wrists, medium-weight canvas sleeves, and elastic cuffs
- Medium-weight 50% cotton canvas / 50% goat leather composition provides unrivaled protection against bee stings
- Tailored fit with mid-length sleeves, plus elastic cuffs to keep the gloves comfortably in place
- Unisex design for men and women
- Humble Bee supports not-for-profit organizations that encourage local beekeeping activities and promote bee conservation efforts
- Professional beekeeper gloves with durable cow leather hands, reinforced wrists, medium-weight canvas sleeves, and elastic cuffs
- Medium-weight 50% cotton canvas / 50% cow leather composition provides unrivaled protection against bee stings
- Tailored fit with mid-length sleeves, plus elastic cuffs to keep the gloves comfortably in place
- Unisex design for men and women
- Humble Bee supports not-for-profit organizations that encourage local beekeeping activities and promote bee conservation efforts
- High Quality: Made of goatskin leather material, soft and comfortable; 3 layers vented sleeve design, breathable and cool
- Multi-purpose: Protect your Hands and Fingers from stings, scratches, pricks; Perfect for Beekeeping, Yard or Garden work
- Ergonomic Grip Design: Allows you easy to grip your Beekeeping tools and hive kits, provides great grip on everything you need
- Apprpximate Gloves Size Large: Palm Circumference 9 1/4 – 9 3/4 inch, Total Length 18.9inch
- 100% Service Guaranteed: Customer satisfaction is our most concern. Asked Money Back Guarantee in 3 months with our no-risk, no-question
Best Gloves for Beekeeping – Conclusion
Beekeeping gloves are an essential piece of protective equipment for any beekeeper. With the wide variety of gloves available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the beekeeper. Some beekeepers may prefer thinner gloves for increased dexterity, while others may opt for thicker gloves for added protection. Regardless of the choice, it is important to ensure that the gloves provide adequate protection against bee stings and other potential hazards. By wearing the appropriate gloves and other protective gear, beekeepers can safely and confidently tend to their hives, ensuring the health and productivity of their bees.
- Carter, Anthony (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 194 Pages - 02/28/2024 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of this blog post about the best beekeeping gloves? A: The purpose of this blog post is to provide an overview of the best beekeeping gloves available on the market, helping both beginner and experienced beekeepers select the most suitable protective gloves for their needs.
Q: Are there different types of beekeeping gloves? A: Yes, there are various types of beekeeping gloves, including leather, synthetic, and fabric gloves, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Q: How do I choose the right beekeeping gloves for me? A: Consider factors such as your budget, the level of protection you require, your preferred glove material, and the climate in which you will be working.
Q: Do beekeeping gloves come in different sizes? A: Yes, most beekeeping gloves are available in a range of sizes, typically from small to extra-large. It’s important to choose gloves that fit comfortably and allow for dexterity while working with your bees.
Q: Are there beekeeping gloves specifically designed for women? A: Some beekeeping glove manufacturers offer gloves designed with women’s sizing and fit in mind, while others offer unisex designs that cater to both men and women.
Q: What materials are commonly used in beekeeping gloves? A: Beekeeping gloves can be made from various materials, including leather, synthetic materials, and fabric blends.
Q: How important is dexterity in beekeeping gloves? A: Dexterity is crucial in beekeeping gloves, as it allows you to perform delicate tasks such as handling frames and manipulating tools with ease. Many gloves are designed with this in mind, providing a balance between protection and dexterity.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my beekeeping gloves? A: Most beekeeping gloves can be wiped clean, hand washed, or machine washed, depending on the material. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to ensure the gloves’ longevity.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on high-quality beekeeping gloves? A: The price of beekeeping gloves can vary depending on factors such as material, design, and brand.
Q: Can I find beekeeping gloves in different colors? A: Yes, beekeeping gloves are available in various colors, such as the traditional white, as well as more colorful options like blue, pink, or green.
Q: Are there any beekeeping glove brands that are highly recommended by experienced beekeepers? A: The blog post will feature top beekeeping glove brands that are highly regarded within the beekeeping community, as well as some lesser-known but equally high-quality options.
Q: Where can I buy the beekeeping gloves featured in this blog post? A: The beekeeping gloves featured in the blog post can be purchased from Amazon by clicking the relevant links. You may also be able to find them at local beekeeping supply stores or agricultural supply shops.
Q: Are there any safety precautions I should follow when using beekeeping gloves? A: When using beekeeping gloves, make sure they fit snugly around your wrists and hands to minimize the risk of bees entering. Additionally, exercise caution when working around bees, and always follow best practices for hive management and handling to minimize the risk of stings. It’s also a good idea to inspect your gloves regularly for any damage or wear that may compromise their protective qualities, and replace them as needed.
Beekeeping Disclaimer:
Beekeeping, like any agricultural activity, involves inherent risks. It is important to understand these risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.
Potential risks associated with beekeeping include:
- Bee stings: Honey bees are generally not aggressive but can become defensive if they feel threatened or their hive is disturbed. Bee stings can cause allergic reactions or even anaphylaxis in some individuals, which can be life-threatening. It is important to wear protective clothing and follow best practices when handling bees to minimize the risk of stings.
- Diseases and pests: Bees can be vulnerable to various diseases and pests, including mites, viruses, and bacterial infections. These can have significant impacts on bee colonies, leading to reduced honey production or even colony collapse. It is important to monitor hives regularly and take appropriate measures to prevent and treat diseases and pests.
- Weather conditions: Extreme weather conditions, such as drought or cold temperatures, can affect the health and productivity of bee colonies. It is important to ensure that hives are appropriately sheltered and provided with adequate food and water.
- Environmental hazards: Bees can be affected by environmental hazards such as pesticide exposure, pollution, and habitat loss. It is important to be aware of these hazards and take appropriate measures to protect bee colonies and promote healthy environments for bees.
- Legal requirements: Beekeeping may be subject to local, state, or national regulations, such as registration or inspection requirements. It is important to be aware of these requirements and comply with them.
While beekeeping can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate them. By following best practices and staying informed about the latest developments in beekeeping, beekeepers can help ensure the health and productivity of their hives and contribute to the well-being of bee populations worldwide.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API