Cool Hands, Clear Head: Why Managing Heat Stress Starts with the Right Gloves

Sweaty hands might sound like a small inconvenience, but for workers who rely on their grip, dexterity and concentration, it can be a serious problem. When gloves trap moisture and heat, they become uncomfortable to wear. Chafing, slipping, reduced precision and general fatigue all start to set in. Over time, that discomfort adds up. The result is not just a drop in productivity, but also an increased risk of injury or error.

Why concentration suffers in the heat

It is not just about physical discomfort either. When you are overheating or distracted by clammy gloves, it affects your ability to focus. According to the European Agency for Health and Safety at Work, the use of PPE in hot conditions can unintendedly contribute to heat stress. This can happen as a result of high temperatures, humidity or physical work rate. One of the earliest symptoms of heat stress is an inability to concentrate. Other effects include muscle cramps, dizziness, heat rash and exhaustion. In more severe cases, workers may experience fainting or even heat stroke.

Factors such as age, medical conditions or lack of acclimatisation can make some individuals more vulnerable to heat stress than others. That is why employers must consider the full picture, from physical demands and working climate to clothing and PPE. Gloves that interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature or restrict sweat evaporation can pose a serious risk, particularly in confined or high-humidity environments.

Reducing risk starts with the right PPE

It is recommended that employers assess the risks of heat stress wherever there is a chance it could occur. This includes looking at how PPE may be contributing to the issue. Gloves that retain moisture or restrict the evaporation of sweat can exacerbate the risk and protective equipment may need to be adapted to incorporate breathable materials or specialised cooling systems to help prevent dehydration and heat-related illness.

Employers are encouraged to implement practical control measures such as rotating tasks, providing shaded or cooler rest areas and ensuring workers have access to drinking water. However, in environments where PPE is required, one of the most effective ways to reduce discomfort and risk is to ensure that equipment – including gloves – is specifically designed to minimise heat build-up. This includes using moisture-wicking fabrics and materials that promote ventilation.

SHOWA gloves to keep hands dry and comfortable

This is the thinking behind SHOWA’s MFT PRO range. Building on the success of the original SHOWA 381, the updated line includes four gloves — MFT PRO 264, 344, 374 and 381 — all designed with an advanced microfibre liner that absorbs sweat and allows it to evaporate quickly. This promotes faster drying and a lasting cooling effect throughout the working day.

The microfibres used in MFT PRO gloves are ultra-fine, measuring between 8.5 and 11 microns, which is several times thinner than human hair. This gives the liner a high surface area that draws moisture away from the skin far more effectively than traditional glove materials. Laboratory testing shows that the MFT PRO 381 absorbs water in just over 3 seconds, compared to over 8 seconds for a nylon liner and more than 60 seconds for some mixed fibres. The same glove also dries almost twice as fast as comparable models, helping hands stay dry for longer.

Tailored protection for different applications

Each glove combines this liner with a different palm coating to suit varied tasks. MFT PRO 264 uses a smooth polyurethane coating ideal for light handling and assembly. MFT PRO 344 features a natural rubber finish for improved grip in wet or manual environments. MFT PRO 374 offers a flat nitrile coating suitable for light oil applications. MFT PRO 381 is finished with microporous nitrile foam, delivering excellent breathability and abrasion resistance for more intensive work.

The breathable liner is supported by ventilated glove construction and four-way stretch, allowing for natural hand movement and airflow. This combination prevents the glove from sticking to damp skin or causing irritation. The interior also includes plated knitting techniques that improve the glove’s shape retention and skin contact, enhancing comfort further during long shifts in hot conditions.

Designed with comfort in mind

Despite their durability, all four gloves are lightweight and flexible. The microfibres used in the liner are six to eight times finer than a human hair, which gives them a soft, second-skin feel while still providing reliable protection. The gloves fit snugly and move easily with the hand, helping to reduce fatigue during repetitive or delicate tasks.

All MFT PRO gloves are machine washable and reusable, supporting a more sustainable approach to PPE. This not only reduces waste but also delivers better long-term value for organisations using gloves at scale.

For workers and safety managers looking to manage heat stress while maintaining grip, comfort and precision, the MFT PRO range offers a practical and well-engineered solution. It shows that glove design can do more than protect against mechanical hazards. It can support wellbeing and help people stay cool, focused and safe on the job.
Because when hands stay cool, performance stays high. Explore the full SHOWA MFT PRO range here.

Sources:

https://osha.europa.eu/sites/default/files/Heat-at-work-Guidance-for-workplaces_EN.pdf
https://www.hse.gov.uk/temperature/employer/heat-stress.htm