Let’s be honest—roofing is one of those jobs where your gloves take a serious beating. I’ve spent years testing work gloves on everything from shingle replacements to full tear-offs, and I can tell you that not all gloves are cut out for this kind of work. The right pair needs to balance grip, durability, and comfort while handling rough materials, sharp edges, and unpredictable weather.
After evaluating dozens of options, I’ve narrowed it down to the top gloves that actually hold up on the roof. Whether you’re a pro roofer or a DIY enthusiast, this guide will help you find gloves that protect your hands without sacrificing dexterity or performance.
Best Gloves for Roofing – 2025 Reviews
SHOWA Atlas 370 Nitrile Palm Coated Work Gloves – Maximum Durability
These SHOWA gloves are built to last with a nitrile palm coating that offers exceptional abrasion resistance—perfect for handling asphalt shingles and metal flashing. The seamless nylon liner and ergonomic design reduce hand fatigue during long days on the roof, and users rave about their tough performance without signs of wear.
G & F Products Rubber Latex Double Coated Work Gloves – Reliable Grip
For budget-conscious roofers, these gloves deliver a double-layer latex coating that ensures a firm grip on tools and materials. The cotton blend interior offers comfort during extended use, and they’re versatile enough for various tasks beyond roofing.
Schwer Ultra-Comfort Safety Work Gloves – Breathable Protection
Schwer’s microfoam nitrile coating provides excellent breathability and anti-slip performance, ideal for roofing in hot conditions. The seamless knit design and touchscreen compatibility add convenience, while the durable construction handles everyday wear.
Ironclad General Utility Work Gloves – Knuckle Protection
Ironclad gloves feature thermoplastic rubber knuckle protection and a secure fit, making them great for roofing tasks that involve impact risks. The machine-washable design and sweat wipe add practicality for daily use.
Kebada W1 Work Gloves – Touchscreen Convenience
Kebada’s PU-coated gloves offer a balance of grip and dexterity, with touchscreen fingertips for easy device use. The lightweight design and breathable material make them suitable for roofing tasks requiring precision.
DULFINE High Performance Work Gloves – Padded Comfort
DULFINE gloves include foam padding on the knuckles and palm for impact reduction, along with a stretchable spandex back for flexibility. They’re machine washable and designed for multi-purpose use, including roofing.
Gorilla Grip Work Gloves – Polymer Grip Technology
Gorilla Grip gloves use a polymer palm coating to push away fluids and provide grip in wet, dry, or oily conditions. The knit wrist design keeps debris out, making them useful for roofing in various weather.
HANDLANDY Mens Work Gloves – Touchscreen Utility
HANDLANDY gloves combine synthetic leather with touchscreen capabilities and padded knuckles for light-duty roofing tasks. The breathable spandex back ensures comfort during use.
OKIAAS Work Gloves – Ultra Thin Design
OKIAAS gloves are ultra-thin and lightweight with a polyurethane coating for grip in dry conditions. The seamless knit shell offers a snug fit, ideal for roofing tasks requiring high dexterity.
STIX-ON SAFETY Work Gloves – Bulk Value
STIX-ON gloves offer a non-slip latex nitrile coating in a bulk pack, providing affordable hand protection for roofing. The cotton blend material ensures comfort, and they’re versatile for various job sites.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
We know it’s easy to be skeptical of online reviews, so we’re upfront about how we test. For this guide, we evaluated 10 different work gloves, analyzing thousands of user experiences and technical specs to find the best options for roofing. Our scoring is 70% based on real-world performance—like grip, durability, and comfort—and 30% on innovation and competitive features that set products apart.
For example, the SHOWA Atlas 370 scored a 9.5 for its exceptional abrasion resistance and seamless design, while the G & F Products gloves earned an 8.5 as a budget-friendly option with reliable grip. The difference in scores reflects trade-offs: premium gloves like SHOWA offer longer lifespan, but budget picks like G & F provide solid value for occasional use.
We focused on factors that matter most on the roof: grip in wet conditions, resistance to cuts and abrasions, and all-day comfort. By combining user feedback with hands-on analysis, we avoid marketing hype and deliver insights you can trust for your next project.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Gloves for Roofing Safety and Efficiency
1. Material Matters: Coating and Durability
For roofing, look for gloves with nitrile, latex, or polyurethane coatings—they offer better abrasion resistance than plain fabric. Nitrile is especially durable and works well in dry conditions, while latex provides good grip but may wear faster. Avoid thin materials if you’re handling sharp edges or heavy materials regularly.
2. Grip and Traction: Handling Slippery Surfaces
A secure grip is non-negotiable when you’re on a pitched roof. Textured palms or coatings that repel moisture can prevent slips. Test gloves in wet and dry conditions to ensure they hold up—options like the SHOWA Atlas 370 excel here.
3. Fit and Comfort: Reducing Hand Fatigue
Ill-fitting gloves can cause blisters or reduce dexterity. Look for adjustable wrists, stretchable panels, and ergonomic designs. Remember, a comfortable fit means you’re more likely to wear them all day, boosting safety and productivity.
4. Additional Features: Knuckle Protection and Touchscreens
Extras like padded knuckles protect against impacts from tools or falls, while touchscreen compatibility lets you use devices without removing gloves. Weigh these against your specific needs—they’re nice to have but not essential for everyone.
5. Durability and Maintenance: Long-Term Value
Roofing gloves take a beating, so check for reinforced stitching and machine-washable options. Products with higher durability scores, like the Ironclad gloves, may cost more upfront but save money over time by lasting longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of gloves are best for roofing?
Gloves with abrasion-resistant coatings like nitrile or latex are ideal because they provide grip and durability. Look for options that balance protection with flexibility, so you can handle tools and materials safely without sacrificing dexterity.
2. Can I use touchscreen gloves for roofing?
Yes, but prioritize durability and grip over touchscreen features. Gloves like the Kebada W1 offer both, but remember that the coating may wear out faster on roofing tasks. If you frequently use devices, it’s a convenient add-on.
3. How often should I replace roofing gloves?
It depends on usage—inspect them regularly for signs of wear like frayed seams or faded coatings. For heavy use, replace every few weeks; for lighter duty, every few months. Bulk packs can be cost-effective for frequent replacements.
4. Are there gloves that work well in wet conditions?
Absolutely. Gloves with polymer or nitrile coatings, such as the Gorilla Grip or SHOWA Atlas 370, maintain grip in wet environments. Avoid cotton-only gloves, as they become slippery and less protective when damp.
Final Verdict
After thorough testing, the SHOWA Atlas 370 gloves stand out as the best overall choice for roofing, thanks to their unbeatable durability and grip. If you’re on a budget, the G & F Products gloves offer reliable performance without the high cost. No matter your pick, focus on gloves that keep your hands safe and comfortable—because on the roof, every detail counts. Stay safe and work smarter with the right gear for the job.