Gardening Gloves

Finger prickin', bad

Given the strenuous nature of garden work, high couture gloves generally aren't seen in gardening plots.  Your landscaping and vegetable garden will likely involve some prickly business that could severely damage silk or glossy leather.  It's best if the work is done with some durable gloves that, while not becoming, will protect soft palms from becoming callous like a spiteful neighbor, so jealous of your prize azaleas. 

Handles nicely

Steady at the top of the line are the possibly over-the-top "Bionic" brand gloves.  The web site certainly does a convincing job of touting the skills of their graphic designers.  Three-dimensional animation of bones and muscle tissue apparently illustrate how their product fits; just like a glove.  But they are definitely serious gardening gloves, employing plenty of technology and space-age fabrics.  Three different designs are offered for various tasks.  The rose garden design withstands thorns clear up to your elbows.  The classic and extended wear designs focus on flexibility, comfort and grip.  Around 40 dollars a pair.

The next best thing

Foxgloves, moderately priced at 25 dollars, may be a better choice for the casual gardener or outdoor enthusiast.  They make no claims about revolutionizing gloves and offer no computer animation as evidence of their superiority, but the fit is right on and little dexterity is lost.  Spandex and nylon explain the snug fit and good grip, but neither of these fabrics are going to do much against a prickly plant.  We suggest using a leather glove over the Foxgloves if you are going to be engaging in some dangerous gardening.

Know that the typical gardening glove that you have been using will not last long on the market next to these gloves.  And even if these aren't right for you, there is no reason to settle for a glove that greatly hinders your mobility, doesn't breathe, and causes calluses.  Comfortable gloves with firm fitting wrists and snug seams between your fingers are easy to find.

More information on gardening apparel