hanske

Hanske is the term used in several Nordic languages, notably Danish and Norwegian, for a glove. In Danish and Norwegian, the singular form is hanske and the plural is hansker; in Swedish the word is handske (plural handskar). Gloves are garments worn on the hands to provide warmth, protection, or both, and they have been used since ancient times in various cultures.

A glove typically consists of a separate pocket for each finger and the thumb, though some variants are mittens with a single pocket for the fingers. Modern gloves are made from a wide range of materials, including leather, wool, cotton, and synthetic fabrics. Protective gloves may feature coatings of latex, nitrile, or polyurethane, while insulated or thermal gloves use materials like Thinsulate or other fillers. Many gloves are designed to be touchscreen compatible, using conductive threads or coatings at the fingertips.

Gloves serve multiple purposes. Winter and cold-weather gloves provide warmth and insulation, while work gloves protect hands from abrasion, punctures, or chemicals. Medical and laboratory gloves offer hygiene and barrier protection. Sports and fashion gloves are designed for performance, grip, comfort, or style. Specialized gloves address needs such as cut resistance, chemical resistance, or improved dexterity.

Care and disposal vary by type. Fabric gloves may be machine-washed, while leather gloves require conditioning and gentle cleaning. Disposable gloves should be discarded after use to prevent contamination. Proper storage away from heat helps preserve material integrity. Gloves remain a common accessory for daily life and for occupational safety, as well as a cultural and fashion element in many regions.