Beginners or apiarists with more aggressive bees should wear canvas or leather gloves (goatskin or cowhide) that extend well up the arm. If your bees are docile, you might be able to wear nitrile rubber gloves, which are thin and flexible but provide less protection against stings. Women should bear in mind that most beekeeping gloves are sized for men, so you might need extra-small gloves even if your hands are of average size.