What is Cut Level F?

Complete Guide to EN388 & 21-Gauge Cut Resistant Gloves

When choosing safety gloves, you’ve probably seen terms like
EN388, Cut Level F, or 21-gauge gloves.

But what do they actually mean?
And more importantly — which one do you really need for your work?

 In this guide, we’ll break it down in a simple, practical way so you can choose the right gloves with confidence.

What is EN388?

EN388 is a European safety standard used to evaluate how well gloves protect against mechanical risks.

This includes protection against:

• Abrasion (wear and tear)

• Cut (blade resistance)

• Tear (ripping)

• Puncture (sharp objects) 

Each glove is tested and given a rating based on its performance.

 The higher the number, the better the protection.

How Are EN388 Gloves Tested?

EN388 gloves go through several real-world performance tests to measure durability and safety.

 Abrasion Resistance

The glove material is rubbed against sandpaper under pressure.

• Measured by how many cycles it takes to create a hole

• Maximum level: Level 4: ≥ 8,000 cycles

 Important for rough, repetitive work environments.

Blade Cut Resistance (Coup Test)

A rotating circular blade cuts across the glove at a constant speed.

• Result is compared to a reference material

• Maximum level: Level 5 (Index 20)

 Used for general cut resistance evaluation.

Tear Resistance

The glove material is partially cut and then pulled apart.

• Measures the force needed to tear the glove

• Maximum level: Level 4 (75N)

 Puncture Resistance

A standard nail is pushed through the glove.

• Measures how much force is needed to puncture it

• Maximum level: Level 4 (150N)

 Important when handling sharp tools or materials.

Cut Resistance (ISO 13997 – TDM Test)

This is the latest and most accurate cut resistance test, introduced in EN388:2016.

• A straight blade is drawn across the glove

• Force increases until the material is cut

• Measured in Newtons (N)

 Maximum level: Level F (30N)

 What is Cut Level F?

Cut Level F is
the highest level of cut resistance under EN388:2016

 What does it mean?

• Withstands 30 Newtons (approx. 3kg force)

• Designed for high-risk cutting environments

 In simple terms:
It’s built to resist serious cutting hazards under pressure.

 When do you need Level F gloves?

Cut Level F gloves are recommended for:

• Metal sheet handling

• Glass work

• Sharp materials

• Industrial and construction environments

 Ideal for jobs where cut risk is extremely high

 Simple comparison

• Lower gauge (e.g. 13G) → thicker gloves

• Higher gauge (e.g. 21G) → thinner, more flexible

 21-gauge gloves are ultra-thin and highly flexible

 Key benefits of 21-Gauge gloves

• Lightweight and breathable

• Excellent dexterity

• Snug, second-skin fit

• Ideal for precision tasks

 Feels almost like working with bare hands

 Key Takeaway

• EN388 = Safety performance standard

• Cut Level F = Highest cut protection

• 21-Gauge = Ultra-thin, high dexterity