How Do Cut-Resistant Work Gloves Work?

From construction sites to kitchens, hand injuries are a common workplace hazard. 

While standard safety gloves offer basic protection, certain jobs require more robust gloves. 

In industries such as manufacturing, glass handling, and metalworking, where the risk of cuts and lacerations is high, cut-resistant gloves (PPE) are essential. These gloves are specifically designed to protect hands from sharp objects like blades, glass, and metal edges.

But how exactly do they provide this advanced level of safety without being bulky or hindering movement?

This post explains how cut-resistant gloves work and highlights some of the top options available from uvex to keep your hands safe.

How Do Cut-Resistant Work Gloves Work?

Cut-resistant work gloves are not "cut-proof," but they are engineered to make it significantly harder for a sharp object to penetrate the material and injure the wearer. Their effectiveness comes down to the specialised materials and construction techniques used.

The gloves are crafted from high-performance fibres that are inherently strong and durable. These fibres are tightly woven or knitted together to create a formidable barrier that resists slicing.

Common materials include High-Performance Polyethene (HPPE), fibreglass, and steel fibres. When a sharp edge comes into contact with the glove, these strong fibres work to distribute the force, preventing the blade from cutting through easily.

To standardise safety, cut-resistant gloves are rated according to specific industry standards, such as EN 388 in Europe. These standards test the gloves against abrasion, cuts, tears, and punctures, assigning a performance level for each.

Cut resistance is graded from A to F, with F offering the highest level of protection. This rating system helps you choose the right glove for the specific hazards of your job.

Our Top Cut-Resistant Work Gloves

At uvex, we offer a wide range of safety gloves designed for superior protection and comfort.

Here are three of our leading cut-resistant models:

Impact protection glove HexArmor® Rig Lizard® Thin Lizzie™ 2090X

The Impact protection glove HexArmor® Rig Lizard® Thin Lizzie™ 2090X glove combines high-level cut protection with defence against impact hazards. It’s an ideal choice for workers in demanding environments where both cut and smash risks are present.

• How it works: It features a comfortable HPPE, steel, and fibreglass shell for cut resistance, combined with a back-of-hand IR-X® Impact Exoskeleton™ to protect against impacts. The flexible, sandy nitrile palm coating ensures a strong grip, even in wet conditions.
• Features:
  • EN 388:2016 certified (4X44EP)
  • High-flex impact protection
  • Reinforced thumb crotch for durability
  • Hi-vis materials for increased worker compliance

Cut protection glove HexArmor® Helix® Series 2076

Engineered for tasks that require excellent dexterity and sensitivity, the Helix® 2076 offers top-tier cut protection without compromising comfort.

• How it works: A 13-gauge HPPE, steel, and fibreglass blend shell provides 360° cut protection. The seamless construction feels soft and breathable, while a flexible polyurethane palm coating offers a superior grip and abrasion resistance.
• Features:
  • EN 388:2016 certified (4X44F)
  • Lightweight and breathable design for improved comfort
  • Reinforced thumb saddle for increased durability
  • Knit wrist to keep out dirt and debris

uvex unidur 6679 foam HV

The uvex unidur 6679 foam HV glove is designed for optimal safety with its very high cut protection (Level D) and high-visibility colouring, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

• How it works: It uses a combination of HPPE, steel, and glass fibres to achieve its high cut resistance. The highly abrasion-resistant NBR foam coating and reinforced thumb crotch ensure a long service life and a good grip in dry and slightly damp areas.
• Features:
  • EN 388 certified (4 X 4 3 D)
  • Excellent tactile feel and flexibility
  • High-visibility colouring for improved safety
  • Suitable for the automotive industry, assembly, and construction work

Find the Right Protection for Your Hands

Cut-resistant gloves work by using advanced, high-strength fibres woven together to create a durable barrier against sharp objects. By understanding the different materials and protection levels, you can select the right glove to keep your hands safe without sacrificing performance.

Explore our full range of cut-resistant safety gloves and find the perfect fit for your needs.

If you need help choosing, our expert team is here to assist. Contact a sales representative today to order your cut-resistant work gloves.