Cut-Resistant Gloves: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
- Troy Cathcart
- Jun 13
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 3
TL;DR
Cut-resistant gloves are rated by EN 388 (A–F) and ANSI (A1–A9) to show how much force they can withstand before cutting through. For high-risk tasks like glass or metal work, Level F gloves such as the Graphex FPR500 Series offer the best balance of protection, grip, and comfort
Introduction
When you are handling glass, sheet metal, sharp tools or machinery, your hands are you most important yet most vulnerable asset. That's where cut-resistant gloves come in. Although not all gloves are created equal, terms such as "Level 5" or "Level F" can be confusing if you're not across the safety standards.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about cut-resistant gloves: What the ratings mean, how to choose the right level of protection for your job, and how they work. We will also showcase some top-rated options available at Nessco Trade Supplies.
What are Cut-Resistant Gloves?
Cut resistant gloves are PPE designed to protect hands from sharp objects and hazadous materials. These gloves are made from high-strength fibers such as HPPE, Kevlar, or engineered yarns, and are often coated with polyurethane, nitrile, or latex for better grip and abrasion resistance.
Typically, these gloves are used in:
Construction
Metal Fabrication
Glass Handling
Engineering and Manufacturing
Automotive Work
Understanding Cut Resistance Ratings
Cut resistance is measured using two primary global standards: EN 388 (used in Australia and Europe) and ANSI/ISEA 105 (used mainly in the United States). Both assess how well a glove resists cuts under pressure, but they use different testing methods and rating scales.
EN 388 (European Standard)
EN 388 evaluates gloves for abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture resistance, with each property scored separately. The cut resistance rating is given a letter from A to F:
A = Low cut resistance, suitable for light-duty work
F = maximum cut resistance, for high-risk tasks like glass or sharp metal handling
This test involves a straight blade cutting through the material under a fixed load.
ANSI/ISEA 105 (US Standard)
This standard uses a numeric scale from A1 to A9, it measures the grams of force required to cut through the glove material using a different testing method, more precise for industrial settings.
ANSI Level | Force Required (grams) | Typical Use |
A1–A3 | 200–999 g | Light general work |
A4–A6 | 1,000–3,000 g | Construction, metal handling |
A7–A9 | 4,000+ g | Glass work, sharp-edge handling |
Why Cut Ratings Matter on Site
Choosing gloves based on real-world risks, not just ratings, is critical. For example, if you're handling sheet metal all day, a level D glove may not be enough. Sharp edges can cause deep lacerations, especially under pressure. That's where level F gloves come to play, they're designed to handle the most extreme cut risks while still offering solid grip and movement.
Choosing the Right Glove for the Job
To choose the right cut-resistant glove, consider:
Type of task - Is it high-risk (glass handling) or general duty?
Dexterity needed - Do you need fine motor skills or is bulk okay?
Comfort for long wear - Breathability and fit matter if you're wearing them all day
Grip requirements - Coating type (nitirile, PU, latex) affects performance on oily or wet surfaces
Common Mistakes When Buying Cut-Resistant Gloves
Overlooking Coating Type: A glove's coating affects everything from grip to abrasion resistance. For oily work surfaces, nitrite outperforms PU or later. For dry conditions, PU offers better flexibility.
Buying One-Size-Fits-All: Ill-fitting gloves reduce tactile feel and can actually create safety risks by slipping or bunching
Ignoring Other Hazards: Cut-resistant gloves don't always protect against punctures or heat. If your tasks involve sparks, oil, or vibration, you'll need gloves designed for multiple hazards.
Graphex Gloves: Built for Real-World Trade Use
The Graphex glove range isn't just about high safety ratings. These gloves are designed with real job sites in mind, made for durability, grip, comfort, and longevity. Reinforced thumb crotches, breathable liners, and smart-knit designs mean you can wear them all day long without sacrificing precision or safety.
Whether you're grinding metal, fitting glass, or handling offcuts on a building site, Graphex gloves offer the resistance and flexibility to go the distance.
Featured Cut-Resistant Gloves at Nessco
We stock a full range of level 5 cut resistance, built for professionals who take safety seriously:
Graphex FPR400 & FPR450 (Level D)
Designed for durability and dexterity
Ideal for general industrial and assembly work
Comfortable for all-day use
Graphex FPR452 BEYOND (Level D)
Flexible PU coating for precision tasks
A step up in comfort and performance
Graphex FPR500–FPR506 Series (Level F)
High cut resistance for serious hazards
Ideal for glass handling, sheet metal, and demolition work
Multiple fit and coating options are available
Quick Tips Before You Buy
Always check the glove's EN 388 rating and match it to your application
Don't overprotect at the expense of comfort or dexterity
Replace gloves as soon as they show wear or damage
Choose coatings that suit your work surface (oily vs dry)
Conclusion
Cut-resistant gloves are a crucial part of any high-risk worksite, but not all gloves are right for every job. Understanding the difference between a Level D and a Level F glove, choosing the right material and coating, and knowing how ratings translate to real-world use will help you make a smarter, safer choice.
Need help picking the right glove for your task? Get in touch with the Nessco team for expert advice and dependable product options that meet Australian standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between Level D and Level F cut-resistant gloves?
Level D gloves are suited to moderate cut risks like construction or light metalwork, while Level F gloves are built for extreme hazards such as glass or sharp steel handling.
2. Do cut-resistant gloves protect against punctures?
Not always. Cut resistance and puncture resistance are different ratings, always check the EN 388 icons for both.
3. Which glove coating is best for oily surfaces?
Nitrile coatings provide the best grip and durability on oily or wet materials, while PU coatings work best in dry environments.
4. How often should I replace cut-resistant gloves?
Replace gloves as soon as they show visible wear, thinning, or reduced grip. Damaged gloves lose their protective properties.
5. What materials make the best cut-resistant gloves?
High-performance materials like HPPE, Kevlar, and engineered yarns offer strong cut resistance while maintaining flexibility and comfort.
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