What Are Level 5 Gloves? Understanding High-Cut and Impact Protection in Safety Workwear
Level 5 Gloves: The Definition and How They’re Rated
Level 5 gloves (sometimes called “Cut Level 5 gloves”) refer to the maximum cut resistance found in the EN388:2016 standard, but also intersect with the latest ANSI/ISEA and ISO 13997 TDM testing scales. Under EN388, a “level 5” cut score (using the Coupe test) means the glove can withstand significant cutting force before being compromised. For the ISO TDM test, level E or F represents the most advanced cut protection, often surpassing what’s traditionally called “level 5.”
Here’s how EN388 scores work:
| Test | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 | Level 5/E-F |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cut (Coupe Test) | 1.2 index | 2.5 | 5.0 | 10.0 | 20.0+ |
| ISO Cut (TDM) | A 2-5N | B 5-10N | C 10-15N | D 15-22N | E 22-30N / F 30+N |
Many modern impact gloves and anti impact gloves combine “cut level 5” fabrics with robust back-of-hand protection for full-spectrum safety .
Level 5 gloves stand out for their superior cut resistance, designed for the most hazardous industrial environments. This exhaustive Seibertron guide explores the EN388 cut and impact levels, the science behind impact protection gloves, and how to select the best Seibertron Safety Gloves to protect your hands against workplace injuries.
Learn what “level 5” really means, compare glove types, and discover advanced cut resistant impact gloves and high impact gloves for oil & gas, construction, manufacturing, and more.
EN388 and Impact Levels Explained
EN388 Mechanical Risks Standard
EN388 is the European benchmark for mechanical glove safety, scoring gloves for abrasion, cut, tear, puncture, and sometimes impact resistance. Level 5, or “EN388 level 5,” means the glove survives the harshest cut testing in this standard.
Impact Resistance: EN388 & ANSI/ISEA 138
- Impact Level 1: Allows up to 9 kN force through the glove; ideal for light assembly or basic material handling.
- Impact Level 2: Up to 6.5 kN force; offers solid back-of-hand and knuckle protection for construction or logistics.
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Impact Level 3: Up to 4 kN force (highest protection); built for oil & gas, demolition, heavy machinery, mining, or rescue.
Most top impact work gloves and crush proof gloves in hazardous sectors are Level 3.
The best impact and cut resistant gloves protect against both accidental slicing and blunt-force trauma on the job.
Who Needs Level 5 and Impact-Resistant Gloves?
- Oil & gas extraction: impact safety gloves prevent crush and cut injuries from moving pipes, valves, tools
- Construction/demolition: high impact gloves reduce risk from tools, concrete, debris, and vibration
- Metalwork/fabrication: cut resistant impact gloves protect against sheet metal, wire, high-temp components
- Warehousing/logistics: impact resistant work gloves help with heavy crates, uneven loads, fast-moving environments
- Automotive, mining, emergency rescue: impact leather gloves and EVA/TPR-backed styles shield from glass, metal, and pinch hazards
How Level 5 Cut and Impact Gloves Are Built
- High-performance yarns: HPPE, aramid fiber (Kevlar), steel mesh blends
- Padded/TPR-molded backs for anti impact gloves
- Double-stitched seams for durability in crush proof gloves
- Leather or synthetic palms for abrasion & grip (impact leather gloves)
- Waterproof or oil-resistant shells for messy, wet conditions
Seibertron Safety Gloves’ engineering maximizes both EN388 cut levels and ANSI/ISEA impact grades for real-world toughness.
How to Choose the Right Level 5, Impact-Resistant Glove
- Assess the hazard: Is it sharp blades, falling objects, pinch points, or abrasive surfaces?
- Check cut/impact scores (EN388/ANSI): Always look for certified results on the glove label or product page
- Select the right material and grip pattern for your task
- Fit: A snug, contoured glove maximizes protection and dexterity. Loose gloves reduce both.
- Testing: Try the glove’s flexibility, grip, and impact pads before extended use
Seibertron Impact Protection Gloves: Features & Advantages
- Impact-diffusing TPR and EVA molded guards
- Premium yarns meet or exceed EN388/ANSI cut level 5
- Water-resistant, oil-resistant, and breathable constructions
- Durable leather and synthetic palm options
- Ergonomic, user-driven designs for real-world comfort
See the latest lineup: Seibertron Safety Gloves Collection
Level 5 Glove FAQs: All About Seibertron Safety Gloves
- What does Level 5 mean for cut resistance?
- It means the glove achieves the highest EN388 or ANSI cut-resistance grade, protecting from sharp blades and heavy slicing forces (20+ cut index or 22–30N force).
- Are Level 5 gloves also impact rated?
- Only if labeled with EN388 impact or ANSI/ISEA138. Seibertron impact gloves combine both for dual protection.
- What’s the best use for impact leather gloves?
- Construction, oil/gas, metalworking—anywhere you need both mechanical durability and back-of-hand protection.
- How should I care for my Seibertron Safety Gloves?
- Hand wash or gentle machine wash (per instructions), air dry flat, and inspect regularly for wear. Replace if the cut surface, padding, or seams show damage.
- Do Seibertron gloves have CE/ANSI labels?
- Product pages include complete certification details, including EN388, impact, and cut-performance results.
Why Level 5 Matters—and How Seibertron Sets the Standard
Level 5 gloves are the gold standard for cut protection, especially when paired with top-tier impact resistance. In environments from oil & gas to construction and rescue, only the best-engineered impact protection gloves make a difference. Seibertron’s level 5 and high impact gloves range sets a benchmark for safety, comfort, and durability.
Explore the entire Seibertron Safety Gloves Collection to find the perfect match for every industrial hazard.
