By: Superior Glove, leading safety glove innovator
Ever wonder how some gloves can be ultra-thin—almost like second skin—yet still hold up on the job? The answer lies in the 21-gauge technology. These gloves are built using ultra fine yarns and precision knitting to create a tight, lightweight fabric that offers outstanding dexterity and dependable protection. They’re made for tasks where precision, control, and comfort matter just as much as safety.
How 21-gauge gloves are made
Specialized high-speed knitting machines are used to make 21-gauge gloves, producing a seamless shell with consistent structure. A 21-gauge glove contains 21 rows of ultra-fine yarn per inch, resulting in a tighter, denser knit. This allows the gloves to be exceptionally thin and form-fitting, which improves dexterity and tactile sensitivity. The close-knit construction also reduced fabric bulk, enabling workers to grip, handle, and manipulate small parts with greater control and comfort.
To put it in perspective, the average cotton T-shirt is around 30-gauge, meaning 30 stitches per inch. A 21-gauge glove uses engineered yarns that are stronger with protective qualities, yet fine enough to knit 21 stitches into every inch of fabric, resulting in a glove that’s only slightly thicker than a T-shirt but built to withstand industrial wear and tear.
| What is a glove gauge? Glove gauge range from 7-gauge to 21-gauge. Gauge refers to the number of stitches per inch of knit material. As the number of stitches increases, so does the gauge. This means the yarn is thinner, allowing for a thinner glove. When there are fewer stiches per inch of yarn, the yarn is thicker and thus the glove is thicker. Lower-gauge gloves are thicker, more durable, and less dexterous. In comparison, higher-gauge gloves are lighter, less durable, and offer more dexterity. |
The power of engineered yarn
Thin doesn’t mean weak. Thanks to engineered yarn blends we can integrate high levels of mechanical protection like cut with stretch, flexibility, and comfort. Together, the materials and the construction are engineered to resist wear, protect against hazards, and maintain shape over time.
Why choose 21-gauge gloves?
Maximum precision and dexterity
The ultra-thin yarns and high-density knitting in 21-gauge gloves provide exceptional touch sensitivity and dexterity, making it easier to handle small parts, tools, or tasks that require precision work. The glove’s low-profile design minimizes bulk between your hands and the object you’re working with, allowing for more controlled, natural movement. The high level of dexterity is critical in tasks that require steady hands and fine motor skills.
Form-fitting structure
21-gauge gloves conform closely to the shape of the hands. They aren’t just better for precision, they’re also more comfortable for extended use. The ergonomic design supports natural hand movement, helping reduce fatigue during repetitive tasks. The tight consistent knit ensures the gloves stay in place during use, reducing the need for adjustments. This secure fit also minimizes excess fabric that can get caught or interfere with tasks that require steady control.
Reliable protection
Despite the thinness, 21-gauge gloves don’t compromise on safety. The high-strength fibers used in the construction of 21-gauge gloves are engineered for strength and resilience—chosen for their ability to enhance mechanical protection and reduce wear and tear. The result is gloves that offer dependable protection in a sleek, flexible design.
Lightweight and breathable
The fine yarns and seamless construction not only make these gloves lighter but also more breathable. Air can move freely through the knit, helping keep hands cooler and more comfortable over long periods of wear. This is especially important for workers in fast-paced, repetitive jobs where hand fatigue and sweat can impact performance.
Smart design for skilled work
21-gauge gloves combine advanced textile engineering and ergonomic fit to deliver performance where it matters most: precision, control, and protection in ultra-thin gloves.
At Superior Glove, we’ve applied these technologies to design and manufacture our thinnest line of 21-gauge gloves and sleeves—The Dexterity® Pro series—offering unmatched mobility, tactility, and all-day comfort. The ultra-thin fit feels like second skin with the line offering a broad range of hazard solutions for cut, impact, water resistance, and more.