Bee Gloves: Should You Use Them?

Yes, you should. When you’re starting out, wear bee gloves every time you work your bees. Wearing the gloves will make you a little less nervous, and a little more confident when you are inexperienced at beekeeping.

But after you’ve been at it for a while, and have become more confident and comfortable, you might decide to do without the gloves. Many beekeepers work with only a veil for protection; others habitually use a full bee suit. It really just comes down to what you are the most comfortable with.

One disadvantage of using gloves is that they are a bit clumsier than working barehanded. Some beekeepers argue that this is a reason for not using gloves, believing that you can’t work the bees as smoothly with gloves as without. There is some truth to this. But on the other hand, if the gloves help you to feel more comfortable and confident, then likely you will work smoother with the gloves than you would barehanded.

When you are shopping for gloves, don’t necessarily go for just the cheapest you can find. This is an item where spending a bit more than absolutely necessary can really pay off. Top quality, ventilated gloves are much more comfortable, and gloves made of a soft, pliable leather minimize – even nearly eliminate - the clumsiness of working with gloves.