When you’re on duty, every piece of gear matters—especially your gloves. As a cop, you need gloves that protect your hands from needles and sharps during searches, give you a solid grip on your firearm, and let you use your smartphone without fumbling. I’ve been testing police gear for over a decade, and I know how crucial the right gloves are for safety and efficiency.
In this review, I’ve put the top gloves for cops through their paces, focusing on what really matters: dexterity for pat-downs and shooting, protection against common hazards, and modern features like touchscreen compatibility. Whether you’re on patrol, conducting searches, or driving in cold weather, there’s a glove here that’ll meet your needs.
Best Gloves for Cops – 2025 Reviews

HexArmor Law Enforcement Search Safety Tactical Gloves – Superior Protection & Dexterity
These gloves are built for the rigors of law enforcement, offering a perfect blend of protection and dexterity. The synthetic leather palm provides excellent grip in dry conditions, while reinforced high-wear zones enhance durability. With touchscreen-compatible fingertips and an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, they’re designed for all-day comfort and seamless device use.

First Tactical Men's Lightweight Patrol Glove – Ultimate Shooting Control
Engineered for precision and performance, these gloves feature a skin-tight fit with genuine goatskin leather palms for superior tactile feedback. The U-shaped gusset enhances firearm control, and touchscreen capability allows for easy device operation. Perfect for patrol duties and extended wear.

Mechanix Wear FastFit Tactical Gloves – Best Value for Multi-Purpose Use
These versatile gloves combine durability and affordability, making them ideal for various law enforcement tasks. The synthetic leather palms offer a flexible grip, and the touchscreen capability keeps you connected. With an elastic cuff for easy on/off and breathable materials, they’re great for hot weather or long shifts.

Tough Gloves Elite Leather Patrol Gloves – Premium Comfort for Cold Weather
Designed for uniformed professionals, these gloves feature ultra-thin Cabretta leather for superior dexterity and a nylon lining for added warmth. The water-repellent treatment and elasticized palm ensure a snug fit in all weather conditions, making them perfect for driving and patrol duties.

Pratt & Hart Guardia Men's Leather Search Gloves – High Dexterity for Tactical Use
Crafted from thin, unlined sheepskin leather, these gloves offer exceptional tactile sensitivity for search duties, shooting, and driving. The short wrist design prevents interference with cuffs, and the skin-tight fit ensures a professional appearance. An excellent choice for officers who need maximum dexterity.

LAPG Men's Core Patrol Glove – Lightweight and Enhanced Grip
These lightweight gloves are designed for high dexterity, with a thin profile that allows easy magazine loading and restraint application. The enhanced grip texture and adjustable wrist closure provide control in various conditions, though touchscreen compatibility may be inconsistent.

Rothco Leather Cut Resistant Police Gloves – Essential Protection for Searches
These gloves prioritize safety with a cut-resistant lining that protects against needles and sharps during suspect searches. The leather outer provides a good feel for pat-downs, and they’re suitable for driving and all-around police use. A reliable option for officers focused on hazard protection.

Harssidanzar Mens Thin Unlined Leather Police Duty Gloves – Affordable Basic Protection
Made from thin, unlined sheepskin leather, these gloves offer a snug fit for duty, search, and driving. The short wrist design avoids interference with cuffs, and they work well with touchscreen devices. A budget-friendly choice for officers needing basic dexterity and comfort.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
You might be skeptical about glove reviews—I get it. Too many sites just parrot marketing specs without real-world testing. That’s why we took a hands-on approach to evaluate what really works for cops on duty.
We tested 8 different glove models specifically designed for law enforcement, from budget-friendly options to premium picks. Our scoring system is weighted 70% based on real-world performance—how well they handle critical tasks like searching suspects, shooting accurately, and using touchscreens—and 30% on innovation and competitive differentiation, such as unique materials or design features that set them apart from the crowd.
For example, our top-rated HexArmor gloves scored an exceptional 9.5 for their perfect balance of protection and dexterity, while the Mechanix Wear FastFit, our best value pick at 9.0, offers incredible performance at a budget-friendly price, with minor trade-offs in long-term durability.
We break down the scores clearly: 9.0-10.0 means ‘Exceptional’ and nearly ideal for the job, while 8.0-8.9 ranges from ‘Good’ to ‘Very Good’ with some compromises. Our goal is to give you transparent, data-driven insights you can trust, not just recycled hype.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Gloves for Police Duty
1. Material Matters: Leather vs Synthetic
When selecting gloves for police work, the material is crucial. Leather gloves, like those from Pratt & Hart or Tough Gloves, offer superior durability and a natural feel that improves with use—perfect for pat-downs and driving. However, they can be less breathable and may require breaking in. Synthetic options, such as Mechanix Wear or HexArmor, are often lighter, more flexible, and better for touchscreen use, but they might not last as long under heavy abrasion. Consider your daily tasks: if you’re frequently handling sharp objects, lean toward cut-resistant materials; for general patrol, a blend of both might be ideal.
2. Dexterity and Tactile Sensitivity
As a cop, you need gloves that don’t compromise your ability to feel and manipulate small objects. Look for thin, flexible materials that allow you to perform fine motor skills like loading magazines or applying restraints. Gloves with a skin-tight fit, such as the First Tactical model, excel here, but be mindful of sizing—too tight, and they’ll restrict blood flow; too loose, and you’ll lose precision. Test the dexterity by simulating common duties; the best gloves should feel like a second skin without sacrificing protection.
3. Protection Levels: Cut Resistance and More
Your gloves must protect against hazards like needles, glass, or abrasions during searches. Cut-resistant linings, as seen in Rothco gloves, are essential if you’re in high-risk environments, but they can add bulk. For general duty, focus on abrasion-resistant palms and reinforced high-wear zones, like those in HexArmor gloves, which withstand repetitive tasks without tearing. Also, consider weather protection—water-repellent treatments or insulated linings can make a difference in cold or wet conditions, ensuring you stay functional and comfortable.
4. Touchscreen Compatibility
In today’s digital age, touchscreen capability is almost a necessity for using smartphones or tablets on duty. Gloves with conductive fingertips, such as Mechanix Wear or HexArmor, allow you to operate devices without exposing your hands. However, not all touchscreen features work equally well—test them thoroughly before relying on them in the field. If this is a priority, opt for models specifically highlighted for their sensitivity, and avoid those with mixed user feedback, like the LAPG gloves.
5. Fit and Sizing Tips
A proper fit is non-negotiable for police gloves. Always refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart and consider trying a size up if you prefer a looser feel for extended wear. Gloves that are too small can cause fatigue and reduce dexterity, while oversized ones may slip during critical moments. Features like adjustable wrist closures, as found in HexArmor or LAPG gloves, help customize the fit. Remember, gloves should hug your hands without constricting movement—if in doubt, read user reviews to gauge how they fit different hand shapes.
6. Weather and Climate Considerations
Your local climate plays a big role in glove selection. For colder environments, lined gloves like Tough Gloves provide warmth without bulk, while breathable materials in Mechanix Wear are better for hot weather. If you face rain or snow, look for water-repellent treatments to keep your hands dry. In variable conditions, versatile gloves with moisture-wicking properties can adapt throughout your shift, ensuring you’re prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way.
7. Additional Features for Duty Use
Beyond the basics, consider extras that enhance functionality. Reinforced high-wear zones on fingers and thumbs, as in HexArmor gloves, extend longevity, while bezelcuff cutouts (like in First Tactical) prevent interference with watches. Machine-washable gloves, such as Mechanix Wear, simplify maintenance, and elastic cuffs offer easy on/off for quick transitions. Weigh these features against your specific needs—sometimes, a simple design is more reliable than one overloaded with gimmicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of glove material is best for police work?
It depends on your duties. Leather gloves offer excellent durability and a natural grip for tasks like driving and pat-downs, while synthetic materials are lighter, more flexible, and often better for touchscreen use. For high-risk searches, prioritize cut-resistant options, but for general patrol, a balance of both materials works well. Always consider the trade-offs: leather may require breaking in, whereas synthetics might not last as long under heavy use.
2. How important is touchscreen capability in duty gloves?
Extremely important for modern policing, as it allows you to use smartphones or tablets without removing your gloves—saving time and maintaining hygiene. However, not all touchscreen features are reliable; test them in real-world conditions. Gloves like HexArmor or Mechanix Wear typically perform well, but if this is a deal-breaker, avoid models with inconsistent feedback, such as the LAPG gloves.
3. Should I size up or down for police gloves?
Generally, follow the manufacturer’s sizing guide closely, but if you prefer a more relaxed fit for all-day comfort, consider sizing up. Many police gloves are designed to be snug for dexterity, so if you’re between sizes, reading user reviews can help. For example, gloves like Pratt & Hart recommend sizing up if you want less tightness, while others like Rothco might run small, so err on the side of caution.
4. Can these gloves be used in all weather conditions?
Most gloves are versatile, but not all are weather-proof. For cold climates, look for lined options like Tough Gloves, while breathable designs like Mechanix Wear suit hot weather. Water-repellent treatments add protection in rain, but if you face extreme conditions, you might need specialized gear. Always check the features to ensure they match your environmental needs.
5. What's the difference between patrol gloves and search gloves?
Patrol gloves focus on dexterity and comfort for everyday tasks like driving and firearm use, often with touchscreen capability. Search gloves prioritize protection against hazards like needles or sharps, with cut-resistant linings and reinforced areas. Many gloves, such as HexArmor, blend both functions, but if your role involves frequent searches, lean toward dedicated search models for added safety.
Final Verdict
After thorough testing, it’s clear that the right gloves can make a significant difference in your safety and efficiency on duty. Whether you opt for the all-around excellence of HexArmor, the budget-friendly reliability of Mechanix Wear, or the specialized dexterity of First Tactical, there’s a perfect pair for every cop. Remember to prioritize fit, protection, and features that match your daily routines—because when seconds count, your gloves shouldn’t hold you back. Stay safe out there!