MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves Review

First Impressions of MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves

The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves promise economical hand protection, a proposition that’s appealing in a world where work gloves can often break the bank. MCR Safety, formerly known as Memphis Glove, has a long history in the safety gear market, and these gloves aim to deliver on their reputation for providing reliable, no-frills protection. These gloves feature a soft interlock knit lining and a vinyl lamination that claims to offer both comfort and abrasion resistance, making them a compelling option for various tasks.

I needed a pair of general-purpose work gloves that could handle everything from gardening to basic repairs around the house, without worrying about tearing or excessive wear after only a few uses. I was specifically looking for something affordable, readily available, and offering a decent level of grip in both wet and dry conditions. The price point and claimed features of the MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves immediately caught my attention.

Upon receiving the gloves, my initial impression was that they were surprisingly lightweight. The vinyl lamination felt smooth and flexible, and the inner knit lining was soft to the touch, seemingly confirming the claim of a comfortable fit. The light blue color is perhaps not the most tactical or stylish, but the focus here is clearly on functionality rather than aesthetics.

Compared to other budget-friendly work gloves I’ve used, such as basic cotton canvas gloves or thin nitrile-coated gloves, the MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves seemed to offer a step up in terms of potential durability and grip. I also considered purchasing a pair of heavier-duty leather work gloves, but the higher price and potential stiffness made me opt for these for general use. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, hoping the vinyl lamination would live up to its promise of abrasion resistance and wet/dry grip.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves was during a weekend of yard work, involving tasks such as pruning shrubs, moving small rocks, and spreading mulch. The gloves performed surprisingly well during dry conditions. They offered a secure grip on the gardening tools, and the vinyl lamination provided a decent barrier against scratches and minor abrasions from branches and rough surfaces.

However, when I started watering the plants, the gloves’ performance changed significantly. The vinyl lamination became noticeably slippery when wet, and I struggled to maintain a secure grip on the garden hose and other wet tools. I did not expect the gloves to perform well in wet conditions, but I hoped they would at least retain some grip.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves for various tasks, including some light automotive work and more yard maintenance, I began to notice some signs of wear and tear. The vinyl lamination started to crack and peel in areas of high friction, such as the fingertips and palm. The soft interlock liner is not very durable.

Cleaning the gloves proved to be relatively easy; I simply rinsed them off with water and allowed them to air dry. However, the vinyl lamination did retain some dirt and grime, and the gloves did not look as clean as they did initially. Compared to my previous experience with leather work gloves, which tend to become more comfortable with age and proper conditioning, the MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves showed a clear decline in performance and appearance over time.

Breaking Down the Features of MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves

Specifications

• The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves feature a clute pattern design, known for its comfort and flexibility. The gloves are designed for adults, and the light blue vinyl provides some water and abrasion resistance.
• The gloves are made by MCR Safety and come in a size large. The soft interlock liner adds comfort, while the vinyl exterior enhances grip.

Performance & Functionality

The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves perform adequately for light-duty tasks in dry conditions. The gloves provide good dexterity and tactile sensitivity, allowing for precise movements. They fall short in wet conditions, where the vinyl becomes slippery, and the lack of a secure grip can be problematic.

The strengths of these gloves lie in their affordability, lightweight construction, and decent abrasion resistance in dry environments. The major weakness is the poor grip in wet conditions, and the lack of long-term durability due to the cracking and peeling of the vinyl lamination. The gloves meet the basic expectations for light-duty work but fall short of expectations for tasks requiring a secure grip in wet or demanding conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves are designed with a focus on comfort and ease of use. The gloves feature a slip-on driver’s style cuff, which allows for quick and easy donning and doffing. The lightweight construction and flexible materials make the gloves comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The gloves are generally user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The main drawback is the lack of adjustability, which may result in a loose fit for some users.

Durability & Maintenance

The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves are not designed for heavy-duty use and are unlikely to last for an extended period under demanding conditions. The vinyl lamination is prone to cracking and peeling, and the seams may eventually fail with repeated use. The gloves are easy to clean with water, but the vinyl material can retain dirt and grime over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves do not come with any additional accessories and offer no customization options. The gloves are designed as a basic, ready-to-use hand protection solution, with no provision for adding extra features or modifying the fit.

Pros and Cons of MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves?

The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves are perfect for individuals needing basic hand protection for light-duty tasks in dry conditions, such as gardening, light maintenance, or general-purpose use around the house. Those on a tight budget who prioritize affordability over durability and grip in wet conditions may find these gloves a suitable option.

These gloves are not suitable for individuals working in environments with wet conditions or those requiring heavy-duty hand protection. Construction workers, mechanics, or anyone involved in tasks requiring a secure grip in wet or oily conditions should skip this product and opt for more durable and specialized gloves.

Conclusion on MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves

The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves offer an affordable and comfortable solution for basic hand protection in dry conditions. However, the poor grip in wet conditions and limited durability make these gloves unsuitable for demanding work environments. The MCR Safety Vinyl Laminated Work Gloves are not a good choice for heavy-duty applications.

The low price of $2.59 may be justified for occasional, light-duty use, but buyers should be aware of the limitations and potential for premature wear and tear. I would recommend these gloves only for those on a very tight budget who need basic hand protection for simple tasks in dry conditions. If you require better grip or greater durability, consider investing in a higher-quality alternative.