Nitrile gloves are made out of a synthetic rubber, and are an ideal alternative when latex allergies are of concern. Nitrile gloves are the superior glove when it comes to puncture resistance. Nitrile gloves are often referred to as â??medical grade.â?? Before gloves can be marketed to hospitals and medical institutions, they must undergo a series of tests conducted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure their durability. A nitrile glove is a synthetic glove which exhibits rubber-like characteristics. It has much of the same flexibility, tensile strength, and durability as a latex glove. Nitrile gloves are also protein free and allergy free. These gloves are a great alternative to the latex glove for people with latex allergies. Nitrile gloves are more durable than latex and vinyl and also provide protection against petroleum-based products.