How to choose the right cut-resistant glove

Cut-resistant gloves are a balance, not a maximum. Here's how to land on the right one in four steps.

1. Identify the cut hazard

Be specific about what's doing the cutting. A clean blade, sheet-metal edges, glass, ceramics and stamped parts all behave differently. The sharper and the more force involved, the higher the cut level you need. Match it to a rating using our guide to EN 388 vs ANSI cut levels.

2. Pick the cut level — but don't over-spec

A higher level usually means a thicker, stiffer glove with less feel. If the task needs dexterity (assembly, inspection, small parts), choose the lowest level that safely covers the hazard. Reserve A6–A9 / EN E–F for genuine blade and sharp-edge handling.

3. Choose the yarn and shell

Cut resistance comes from the fibre, not magic. Common engineered yarns:

• HPPE (high-performance polyethylene) — light, comfortable, the everyday choice for A2–A5.
• Glass fibre / steel core — boosts cut level without bulk, common in A5–A9.
• Aramid (e.g. Kevlar) — adds heat resistance alongside cut, used in welding and foundry work.

4. Match the coating to the environment

The palm coating decides grip:

• PU — thin, breathable, great fingertip feel for dry precision work.
• Nitrile (foam/sandy) — best all-round grip, good in light oil.
• Latex — strong wet grip, cheaper, but allergy considerations.

For impact zones (oil & gas, heavy assembly), add TPR knuckle protection — see our TPR impact glove. For knitted cut options, browse the knitted & TPR range.

The short version

Match the cut level to the real hazard, pick the lightest glove that clears it, choose the yarn for any extra need (heat, fine cut), and the coating for the environment. When in doubt, request a couple of samples and let the wearers decide.