Cut Resistance Standards: EN388 & ANSI/ISEA

Understanding Cut Levels and Ratings

The highest cut-resistant gloves are rated under two test systems:
EN388 (Europe/Global): Uses Level F as its maximum rating (ISO 13997) and Level 5 for the traditional Coupe method. Level F means the glove withstands over 30 newtons of force on the fabric.
ANSI/ISEA 105 (USA): Levels range from A1 (lowest) to A9 (highest). A9 gloves withstand up to 6000g (13.2 lbs) of cutting force.

High-level gloves combine advanced yarns, engineered fibers, and layered protection, making them ideal impact leather gloves and crush proof gloves for dangerous work.

When hand safety is critical, understanding the highest level of cut-resistant gloves can mean the difference between injury and total protection on the job. This in-depth guide covers global standards like EN388 and ANSI/ISEA, the technology behind Seibertron impact protection gloves, and why selecting high impact gloves and cut resistant impact gloves matters in construction, oil & gas, manufacturing, and more. See which impact work gloves truly provide the best defense.
Get the details on what “cut level F” and “ANSI A9” really mean, how impact and cut resistant gloves are engineered, and best practice care for keeping your Seibertron Safety Gloves in top condition.

How Are Cut Levels Tested?

• EN388 Coupe Test: Measures how many cycles a moving circular blade takes to cut through material (up to level 5).
• EN388 ISO 13997 (TDM test): Uses a straight blade and increasing weights. Level F is highest, more common in new high-performance gloves.
• ANSI/ISEA TDM Method: Force in grams required to cut straight through a glove, A9 as maximum, now preferred in North America.

Remember: "Cut resistance" is about reducing the risk — not making your hands cut-proof. Every glove has its limits depending on the tool, speed, and hazard involved.

Why Use High-Level Impact & Cut-Resistant Gloves?

• Protection from razor-sharp edges, glass panes, sheet metal, and blades
• Defense against crush, blunt force, and pinching injuries on construction sites, oil rigs, or in heavy industries
• Confidence for mechanics, first responders, and utility techs
• Peace of mind for workers in high-risk, high-impact tasks

Impact safety gloves from Seibertron raise the bar with layered TPR/EVA guards and max-level cut fabrics.

Materials That Achieve Maximum Cut Resistance

• High Performance Polyethylene (HPPE) blends
• Aramid fibers (like Kevlar, Twaron)
• Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)
• Steel wire, glass fiber, basalt, and engineered hybrid yarns

When layered in a glove with impact protection gloves technology (flexible armor on the back of hand), these fibers provide defense and dexterity for dangerous jobs.

Impact Protection Levels: EN388, ANSI/ISEA 138

Impact is NOT covered by ANSI but features prominently in EN388 (2016+) and ANSI/ISEA 138. Look for gloves labeled:

• EN388 P: Impact tested; must pass manufacturers’ specifications
• ANSI/ISEA Levels 1–3: Level 3 (highest) transmits the least force, minimizing injury risk in “crush zones.”

The best impact resistant work gloves, like many from Seibertron, combine Level F cut and highest impact scores.

How to Choose High Impact and Cut-Resistant Gloves

1. Assess the Hazards

• Are blades, glass, sharp metals, or abrasive surfaces involved?
• Is there crush, pinch, or blunt force danger?

2. Check the Ratings

• Look for EN388 Level F or ANSI A7–A9 labeling for toughest jobs
• For impact, find EN388 impact or ANSI/ISEA 138 Level 3

3. Evaluate Materials & Fit

• Prioritize gloves with reinforced seams, flexible armor, and grippy palms
• Fit matters: snug gloves protect best

4. Test, Train & Replace

• Test gloves with sample tasks
• Train workers to recognize signs of wear
• Replace any glove showing damage or loss of integrity

Real-World Applications for Level F/A9 Gloves

• Oil and gas rigging and heavy pipeline work (impact work gloves)
• Automotive glass installation (sharp edges and cut risk)
• Demolition, rescue, and high-power tool operations (anti impact gloves)
• Metal fabrication, manufacturing, and mining (sheet metal, steel cable)

Explore the Seibertron Safety Gloves collection for gloves designed to meet these challenges.

Seibertron Impact Protection Glove Technology

• Advanced cut-resistant liners certified to EN388 F/ANSI A7–A9
• Flexible, high-rebound impact shields for knuckles and back-of-hand
• Breathable, ergonomic construction for extended wear
• Grip-optimized palm for maximum tool and material control
• Oil- and water-resistant models available for the toughest environments

Browse our latest impact and cut safety gloves

FAQ: Seibertron Safety Gloves and Cut Resistance Levels

What is the absolute highest cut resistance in work gloves?

EN388 Level F (over 30N) and ANSI/ISEA 105 Level A9 (over 6000g) are the maximum scores currently available.

Are any gloves totally “cut proof” or “crush proof”?

No glove is perfectly cut- or crush-proof, but high-level cut and impact protection dramatically reduce injury risk for industrial workers. Always follow company procedures and replace damaged gloves.

How do Seibertron impact leather gloves differ from regular work gloves?

Seibertron high impact gloves use both impact armor plus EN388 Level liners for maximum protection and durability—unlike basic work gloves.

How should I wash or care for my Seibertron safety gloves?

Rinse off debris promptly, wash by hand or machine (gentle cycle), air dry away from heat, and inspect regularly for cut or impact damage. Store in a cool, dry place.

Where can I find Seibertron’s impact and cut resistant gloves?

Visit Seibertron Safety Gloves - New Arrivals for the complete selection.

Maximum Cut Protection with Impact Gloves

The highest level of cut-resistant gloves is EN388 Level F or ANSI A9—a mark of ultra-durable, advanced hand protection built for the world’s toughest jobs. Industry leaders rely on Seibertron impact protection gloves, impact and cut resistant gloves, and crush proof gloves for proven safety and dependable comfort in high-risk environments. By choosing, using, and caring for certified high-level gloves, you ensure that safety comes first.
Shop Seibertron Impact & Cut Protection Gloves for industrial, oil & gas, rescue, automotive, and more.