The Best Auto Mechanic Gloves Picks

Automotive mechanics encounter several hazards inherent to their work on vehicles, from high-temperature and corrosive chemicals to sharp-edged fasteners that can easily pierce the skin. That’s not to mention the dexterity required to wrench in some of the tightest working conditions. To help professional and hobby mechanics stay safe and protect one of their greatest assets, we’ve compiled a list of the six best mechanic gloves across a range of styles and prices. 

Our 6 Best Auto Mechanic Gloves Picks

Superior mechanic gloves enhance auto repair technician safety and efficiency while remaining affordable. Explore our picks for the six best auto mechanic gloves below, listed in no particular order. 

Ammex Gloveworks Industrial Orange Nitrile Gloves 

SKU: GWON46100

Ammex Gloveworks Industrial Orange Nitrile Gloves feature a raised diamond texture (RDT) that enhances grip, even in slippery conditions mechanics encounter while working with automotive fluids. These 8-mil-thick, puncture- and tear-resistant nitrile disposable gloves are free from latex and powder, reducing sweat while working around hot engine components. Available in packs of 100 or 1,000, Ammex Gloveworks Industrial Orange Nitrile Gloves are also available in green, with sizes ranging from extra small to XXL. 

Mechanix Wear Original

SKU: MG-05-011 (for size XL)

Perfect for everyday tasks, machine washable, and touchscreen-compatible, Mechanix Wear Original mechanic gloves provide an all-around solution for completing more extensive automotive repairs that disposable gloves simply can’t handle. The TrekDry leather-like material is breathable without sacrificing comfort, offering techs dexterity and protection in a no-frills platform. These Mechanix gloves incorporate tactical carrier loops and a reinforced thumb and finger, but they’re not necessarily the best option if you’re looking for gloves that can withstand extreme heat. 

LANON Nitrile Chemical Resistant Gloves

SKU: V330BK 

In contrast to the Ammex pair of nitrile disposable mechanic gloves previously mentioned, LANON Nitrile Chemical Resistant Gloves are reusable and feature a 15-gauge cotton liner and extended cuffs. The MicroFoam textured palm offers a solid gripping surface, while the gloves themselves resist tears, chemicals, and punctures. Available in large, extra-large, and XXL sizes, LANON’s mechanic gloves offer a snug and comfortable fit, ideal for more extensive repairs involving automotive chemicals. 

Mechanix Wear M-Pact

SKU: MPT-58-011 (for size XL)

When the job calls for more than just routine maintenance, Mechanix Wear M-Pact mechanic gloves rise to the occasion with superior cushioning, touchscreen compatibility, and high-quality thermoplastic rubber knuckle and finger protection. Any major repair practically demands gloves of this kind, and Mechanix makes them machine washable so you don’t have to worry about transferring grease and grime to the next vehicle. These mechanic gloves also offer protection against extreme heat. 

Ironclad General Utility™ Gloves

SKU: GUG-04-L

Your next go-to pair of mechanic gloves could be these General Utility™ Gloves from Ironclad, available in sizes from extra small to XXXL. Featuring thermoplastic rubber knuckles, touchscreen-compatible thumb, index, and middle fingers, palm padding, and a Hybrid Safety Cuff system, these mechanic gloves made from nylon and genuine and synthetic leathers are durable, flexible, and machine washable. They also feature a terry cloth sweat patch built into the back of the thumb for all those back-breaking jobs under the hood—and the car itself. 

Custom Leathercraft Pit Crew™ Mechanic’s Gloves

SKU: 220B

Custom Leathercraft Pit Crew™ Mechanic’s Gloves feature breathable spandex, a neoprene cuff, and a Syntrex synthetic leather palm. Durable, flexible, and machine washable, these mechanic gloves incorporate a padded palm and knuckles, reinforced fingertips, and a wing-close wrist strap common among these types of gloves. Custom Leathercraft (CLC) auto mechanic gloves are available in medium, large, and extra-large. 

What are the Different Types of Auto Mechanic Gloves?

Auto mechanics typically use more than one set of gloves to complete various diagnostics and repairs. Nitrile mechanic gloves are best for chemical resistance during quick repairs, while leather mechanic gloves offer greater cut and impact protection. Explore the three main types of auto mechanic gloves below.

Nitrile Disposables

Mechanics tackling oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, brake maintenance, coolant flushes, and fuel system repairs benefit greatly from disposable nitrile gloves. These auto mechanic gloves shield sensitive skin from harmful chemicals without sacrificing dexterity. A snug fit and semi-textured design provide technicians with an improved grip, even in slippery conditions. 

Cut-Resistant Textiles

Most cut-resistant mechanic gloves are made from real or synthetic leather and bridge the gap between nitrile disposable gloves and impact-resistant mechanic gloves. What these gloves lack in dexterity, they more than make up for protection for jobs like mounting tires, repairing or adjusting seats, and inspecting under the hood and beneath the vehicle. They’re also ideal for detailed interior work and replacing light bulbs. 

Impact-Protective Hybrids

Impact-resistant mechanic gloves feature thermoplastic rubber elements and reinforced fingers that work to prevent busted knuckles and pinched digits. These auto mechanic gloves are well-suited to the grunt work associated with suspension replacements, extensive engine repairs, heavy drivetrain component removal, and frame repairs. 

Auto Mechanic Gloves Performance Factors

The return on investment for the auto mechanic gloves mirrors that of a specialty tool, enabling technicians to expand their skill set and increase productivity. While price certainly has an influence on performance, determining what’s worth the extra cost can prove challenging. Below are key performance factors worth considering when selecting the best pair of auto mechanic gloves.

Dexterity

It’s often easy to lose dexterity by donning a pair of inferior auto mechanic gloves, but the best increases it through added functionality. A comfortable, breathable, and flexible pair of auto mechanic gloves enhances grip while still allowing technicians to operate touchscreens as they diagnose and perform repairs. 

Cut Resistance

Mechanics encounter several sharp components as they perform auto repairs, including machined edges and electrical connectors. Although disposable mechanic gloves offer fewer cut-resistant properties than their synthetic or real leather counterparts, the best of both are strong and durable. 

Impact Resistance

A pair of impact-resistant mechanic gloves protects your digits from the shock and trauma that often occur when repairing vehicles. Reinforced knuckles, fingers, and palms safeguard your hands against the crushing impact of heavy metal parts, like alternators, suspension components, and cylinder heads. 

Design

Key design elements of mechanic gloves include adjustable wrist closures, touchscreen-compatible fingertips, textured palms, and patches of built-in material designed to absorb sweat. Personal preference often dictates which specific features aid in auto tech productivity and comfort. 

Equip Your Workforce With the Right Tools for the Job

Our pick as the best pair of auto mechanic gloves and Identifix share one critical characteristic: keeping auto technicians safe and productive. Identifix provides techs with automotive repair shop software and services solutions to help them increase their knowledge and profitability. Contact us to discover how Identifix can help your auto repair business thrive. Did you like this article? Find more great content at identifx.com/blogs and solera.com/blog.