EN 388 work glove ratings explained

Those numbers and letters on work gloves—like 4X42C—tell you exactly what protection they offer. Understanding EN 388 ratings helps you pick gloves that match your job hazards without overspending on protection you don't need.

How to read the rating

EN 388 ratings appear as a pictogram with 4-6 characters underneath:

[Shield icon]
4 X 4 2 C P
│ │ │ │ │ └─ Impact protection (optional)
│ │ │ │ └─── Cut resistance (ISO/new method)
│ │ │ └───── Puncture resistance
│ │ └─────── Tear resistance
│ └───────── Cut resistance (old method)
└─────────── Abrasion resistance

The six tests explained

1. Abrasion resistance (0-4)

How well the glove withstands rubbing against rough surfaces.

You need high abrasion if: Handling rough materials, bricklaying, concrete work, material handling with coarse surfaces.

2. Cut resistance - blade (0-5 or

The old test method using a rotating blade.

X marking: If the blade dulled during testing (common with high-performance cut-resistant materials), the test is invalid. Check the ISO cut level instead.

3. Tear resistance (0-4)

How much force needed to tear the glove material.

You need high tear resistance if: Working with hooks, sharp edges, or situations where gloves might catch and tear.

4. Puncture resistance (0-4)

Resistance to pointed objects pushing through.

You need high puncture if: Handling nails, wire, thorns, or other pointed objects.

5. Cut resistance - ISO (A-F)

The new, more accurate test method. Always check this for cut-resistant gloves.

The ISO test is more reliable because:

• Uses a straight blade that doesn't dull
• Measures actual force to cut through
• Better reflects real-world performance

6. Impact protection (P)

Optional test for gloves with impact protection (typically TPR knuckle guards).

You need impact protection if: Working with hammers, heavy machinery, or risk of crushing/striking hazards to back of hand.

Common ratings and what they mean

Choosing the right cut level

When C or D is enough

• Handling sheet metal edges
• Working with glass
• Automotive assembly
• Food processing with knives
• General metal fabrication

When you need E or F

• Working with razor blades or scalpels
• Handling ultra-sharp metal edges
• Recycling with unknown sharp objects
• Meat processing
• Glass breaking/handling

Beyond EN 388: Other important standards

EN 388 covers mechanical hazards only. For other risks, look for:

Reading a real glove label

Example rating: 4X43C P

• 4 = Excellent abrasion (8,000 cycles)
• X = Old cut test invalid (blade dulled—good sign!)
• 4 = Excellent tear resistance (75N)
• 3 = Good puncture resistance (100N)
• C = Medium-high cut protection (10 grams)
• P = Has impact protection

This glove is good for: Heavy handling with sharp edges and impact risks. Construction, metal fabrication, automotive.

Common mistakes

1. Only looking at cut level

• A cut-resistant glove with low abrasion wears through quickly
• Balance all ratings for your actual hazards

2. Ignoring the X marking

• X on old cut test usually means high-performance material
• Check the ISO level (A-F) for actual cut protection

3. Over-specifying protection

• Level F gloves are thick and reduce dexterity
• Choose the minimum level that covers your risk

4. Forgetting grip requirements

• EN 388 doesn't test grip
• Consider coating type: nitrile, latex, PU, etc.

5. Not considering durability

• High abrasion resistance = longer glove life
• Important if you're replacing gloves frequently

Questions?

Not sure which glove rating you need? Drop us a message or chat with us. Tell us about your work hazards and we'll recommend the right protection level.

Related articles:

• How to choose work gloves
• Cut-resistant gloves: Levels A-F explained

Updated on: 23/12/2025