Glove Type Comparison Chart
| Glove Type | Economy | Recommended Use |
| Latex | Very Good Latex provides very good economy for general use. Powder-free versions are more expensive than powdered. | Recommended as the first choice for barrier protection in the healthcare environment, except for users and patients who are allergic to latex. |
| Neoprene (polychloroprene) | Good Neoprene is more expensive than latex, but can be justified when weighed against the cost of managing latex allergies. | Recommended as a preferred alternative to latex due to its similarity to latex with respect to fit, feel, comfort and barrier protection. Also recommended for those with allergies and sensitive skin. |
| Nitrile | Good Nitrile is more expensive than latex, but can be justified when weighed against the cost of managing latex allergies. | Recommended as a preferred alternative to latex. Also recommended for conditions where high-strength and/or chemical protection is required. |
| Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) | Very Good PVC costs are typically similar to those of latex. Vinyl is a low-cost alternative to latex if latex allergies are a concern. | Recommended as a low-cost alternative to latex for short procedures not involving blood or bodily fluids. |
| Polyisoprene | Good Polyisoprene is more expensive than latex, but can be justified when weighed against the cost of managing latex allergies. | Recommended as an alternative to latex due to the similarity to latex in respect to fit, comfort and feel. |
Source: Outpatient Surgery Magazine, May 2006 issue with information provided by Ansell Healthcare.