SHOWA : What gloves for protecting the hands against the risks of laboratory?

SHOWA is a fully integrated manufacturer of protective gloves, renowned for innovations in nitrile and its Eco Best Technology (EBT), which accelerates end-of-life biodegradation. For life sciences laboratories, R&D and quality control, the brand spans the range from disposable to reusable chemical-resistant gloves, with a constant focus: tactile precision, chemical resistance and lasting comfort. Certified to European PPE standards, SHOWA gloves help make sensitive procedures safer while supporting concrete CSR policies. Dutscher selects and distributes their key lines for modern laboratory environments.

From Japan, a vision that has become the global standard

Born in Japan, SHOWA has spent decades cultivating unique expertise: designing, formulating and manufacturing protective gloves while controlling every step, from yarn to coating. This integrated production model ensures consistent quality and continuous innovation, driven by Japanese engineering and manufacturing sites across several continents. SHOWA’s story has also been shaped by strategic alliances in the professional glove market, strengthening its presence in Europe and North America. The brand has established itself as a pioneer of precision nitrile and of sustainability with EBT, while staying true to its fundamentals: safety, comfort and reliability. Today, SHOWA supports laboratories, R&D and industry with certified solutions compliant with Regulation (EU) 2016/425, underpinned by quality and environmental management systems such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.

Expertise and Areas of Specialisation

SHOWA stands out for its command of materials and processes that really makes a difference at the bench and under the fume hood.
• Gloves disposable nitrile for laboratories: high-purity formulations, powder-free, excellent tactile sensitivity and textured fingertips for a secure grip on glassware and instruments. Available in different thicknesses and colours to manage risks and zone traceability. Some ranges integrate EBT technology, which accelerates biodegradation under landfill conditions (test ASTM D5526), with no compromise on in-use performance.
• Gloves chemical reusable: nitrile formulations and selected blends for resistance to solvents, acids and bases, with long cuffs, non-slip palms and comfortable liners for extended tasks. Compliant with EN ISO 374-1/5, they are accompanied by permeation tables to help you choose the right reference for each substance.
• Precision mechanical protection: for fine cutting, assembly and handling of glassware, SHOWA combines technical knitting with microfoam nitrile coatings to optimise dexterity, grip and breathability without sacrificing protection.
• Key laboratory compliances: depending on model, compliance with EN 455 (medical devices), EN ISO 374 (chemical and micro-organism risks, including VIRUS option), and food contact compatibility (EU 1935/2004, 10/2011) where required. SHOWA provides declarations and test reports to document your internal validations.
• Sustainable differentiation: the EBT signature and in-house integration reduce overall footprint while securing supply. Versions with low accelerator content or latex-free are available to limit the risk of skin sensitisation.
With Dutscher, lab teams benefit from sharp application advice: choosing thickness, chemical level (type A/B/C), grip and cuff length for protection calibrated to each protocol.

SHOWA products distributed by Dutscher

Hand protection

Frequently asked questions about the SHOWA brand

Where are SHOWA gloves manufactured?
SHOWA manufactures across multiple sites (Japan, the Americas, Asia) to secure supply. The same quality and traceability standards apply to all plants.

Which standards cover SHOWA chemical gloves?
The relevant ranges are tested to EN ISO 374-1 (Type A/B/C) and EN ISO 374-5 (including the VIRUS option). Permeation charts help you select the right glove.

Are SHOWA disposable gloves biodegradable?
Many nitrile models feature EBT, which accelerates biodegradation in landfill (ASTM D5526) without compromising performance during laboratory use.

Does SHOWA offer gloves for food contact?
Yes, some products are suitable for food contact (EU 1935/2004 and 10/2011). Always check the declaration of conformity for the selected model.

Are there latex-free or low-sensitiser options?
Yes: latex-free nitrile gloves, and low-accelerator versions to reduce the risk of contact allergy.

What are best practices for storage and shelf life?
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from UV and ozone. Observe the shelf-life date on the packaging and the conditions specified by SHOWA.