Cut & Impact Resistant Gloves EN 388 Protection

Cut and impact resistant gloves tackle two hazards at once: sharp materials and blunt force trauma. You're protected against blade cuts, rough edges, and sudden impacts on the knuckles. That's the core decision in this category – both threats matter equally in the right work environment.

What separates models here is the cut resistance rating and the type of protection. Look for EN 388 certification, which tells you the protection level. The ISO 13997 TDM scale (A–F) shows how many Newtons of force a glove resists before the blade passes through. For impact, you're either looking at gloves that pass the 5-joule knuckle impact test or those without it – it's binary.

Cut Protection Levels Matter More Than You Think

Cut resistance ranges across this collection. Some options offer lighter protection suited to handling and assembly work; others reach the highest levels for demanding jobs with sharp tools or rough stock. Impact protection is optional – not every glove in this range includes it, so check the EN 388 marking carefully.

Common Mistake: Confusing Cut Ratings

Many buyers mix up the old Coup test (0–5 scale) with the newer ISO 13997 TDM test (A–F scale). They're not the same. TDM is more reliable because the blade doesn't dull as easily. When comparing models, focus on the TDM rating in position E of the EN 388 code. For warehouse, factory, or construction work where both cuts and impacts are real risks, you need models certified to both.

EN 388 position E (TDM cut rating): A through F – higher letters mean more protection
EN 388 position F (impact): P means pass, blank means not tested
Heavy materials and rough edges: aim for E–F on TDM; impact-rated models for knuckle protection
Handling and assembly: lower TDM ratings may be sufficient; check your material hazards first

If your work involves sharp edges and you need specialised protection, compare with our cut resistant gloves (which may not include impact features) and impact gloves (which prioritise blunt force). This range combines both, making it ideal when hazards overlap.

Understanding EN 388 Cut and Impact Ratings

EN 388:2016 combines six protection measures into one standard. The cut resistance rating appears in position E and uses the ISO 13997 TDM scale (A–F, where F is strongest). Position F indicates impact protection with a simple P (pass) or blank (not tested). This collection includes options across this range. A marking of 4X42DP, for example, means abrasion level 4, tear level 4, puncture level 2, cut level D (15 Newtons TDM), and impact pass. Check your product page for the exact marking before purchase.

Cut Resistance: TDM vs Coup Test

The older Coup test (0–5 scale) can give misleading results because the blade dulls during repeated cuts. The newer TDM test (A–F letters) uses a sharp blade for each sample, so ratings are more reliable. Many models in this collection display the TDM rating (position E). If you see an 'X' in the Coup position (position B), it means the blade dulled during testing – that glove likely has genuine cut resistance. Focus on the TDM rating when comparing protection levels.

Impact Protection: Pass or Fail

Unlike cut resistance, impact protection is not tiered. A glove either passes the 5-joule knuckle impact test (marked P) or it doesn’t (blank or F). This collection includes impact-rated models designed for work where knuckle strikes against hard objects are a real risk. Not every glove here includes impact certification, so verify the marking before ordering.

Real-World Selection Guide

Warehouse and handling work with sharp edges? Look for TDM level D or higher. Metalworking and rough stock? E or F is standard. If knuckle impacts are frequent (assembly machinery, metal stamping, tooling), you need the P impact rating too. Some roles need both – construction sites with rebar and formwork demand cut resistance and impact protection equally. Others may need only one. Assess your actual hazards: Are you cut-threatened or impact-threatened more often? Or equally? Your answer guides which models in this range work best.

Common Specification Mistakes

• Choosing based on cut level alone and ignoring impact – both hazards present means you need both protections
• Overspecifying cut resistance (E–F) when D would protect you adequately – this adds cost and bulk for no real gain
• Assuming all certified gloves work for your specific material – leather, nitrile, and aramid-blend gloves resist different damage types; verify material match to your edges and impacts
• Forgetting to check position E (not position B) when comparing cut ratings – position B can be invalid (X) even if position E shows solid protection

Cut Resistant Impact Gloves

Cut Protection Levels Matter More Than You Think

Common Mistake: Confusing Cut Ratings

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