Vinyl gloves cost about the same as latex. Nitrile gloves are reported to be more resistant to tears and punctures, and degradation by chemical agents, than either latex or vinyl. They are also reported to perform as well or better than latex gloves in terms of durability and pathogen barrier protection. However, nitrile gloves, like latex gloves, are manufactured through a process of vulcanization, and may contain chemical additives similar to those used in latex gloves that can cause Type IV allergic reactions in some people. Information about the presence of these chemicals can be found in the technical specifications prepared by each glove manufacturer.
Nitrile gloves are somewhat more expensive than either latex or vinyl.
Neoprene gloves provide pathogen barrier protection similar to latex. The strength, elasticity and fit comfort of neoprene are also close to that of latex. Neoprene is vulcanized and may contain chemical additives, including latex and nitrile. Neoprene gloves are most commonly used in the operating room, but they are spendy, costing over a buck a pair. An initial report found that TPE s effectiveness as a barrier to blood-borne pathogens was equal to or better than that provided by latex.