Many people believe that beekeeping is an unsafe hobby, but it’s all what you make of it. For instance, bees might attack you if you don’t know how to deal with them or come at them. Therefore, you most likely won’t have any issues if you take care of them responsibly and wear the correct protective gear. Bees are incredible insects, but they will put up a fight—consider a few helpful tips for choosing the best beekeeping gloves.
Choose the Right Fit
Choosing the right fit is one of the most important things to consider when buying beekeeping gloves. Many new beekeepers make the mistake of choosing gloves much too big for their hands. As a result, they don’t have any dexterity or leverage when working in the hive. Unfortunately, this might cause you to smash bees, drop your tools, or damage the hive’s interior. So make sure your gloves fit well!
Buy Them In-Store
Even though you can buy beekeeping gloves online, you should consider shopping in-store if possible. Many hardware and agricultural stores will most likely carry these gloves, making it easier for you to find them in your hometown. While there’s nothing wrong with looking for bee nucs for sale online, you should avoid buying your gloves online—you can’t try them on before purchasing them.
Ensure They’re Breathable
You’ll be caring for the hive during the summer, so you’ll work in the heat. Beekeeping gear can cause you to sweat and distract you from your work, but choosing breathable materials can help you stay cool throughout the summer months. Therefore, look for beekeeping gloves that offer some type of ventilation to prevent your hands from sweating and overheating.
Ensure They’re Sting-Proof
If you’re a new beekeeper, you’re more likely to experience stings. With that in mind, you’ll want to get gloves that cover your hands and forearms to ensure proper protection. As you become more experienced and learn how to handle your bees better, you can opt for thinner gloves with less protection or even go without any gloves at all.
Consider the Material
Beekeeping gloves come in several different materials, with the most popular being leather, goatskin, or nitrile. Most gloves are leather, as they’re breathable and protect you from stings. However, leather can be challenging to work with in terms of fine motor skills. As a result, many beekeepers opt for goatskin gloves because they’re much thinner than traditional leather but still protect from stings. Advanced beekeepers often choose nitrile gloves because they’re a thin, flexible barrier, but they don’t provide the same level of protection.
After learning these helpful tips for choosing the best beekeeping gloves, you can make the right choice to ensure your safety. Gloves are an essential garment for beginners, so don’t skimp on finding the best pair for you.