If you've ever looked at a glove label and seen a code like "4X44E" and felt confused, you're not alone.

The EN388 standard is the benchmark for protective gloves against mechanical risks like cuts, abrasion, tears, and punctures . In 2016, the standard was updated with a new, more accurate cut test — and that's where the A to F letter scale comes from .

Let's break it down simply.

The New EN388 Cut Test: A–F Explained

Before 2016, gloves were tested using a method called the Coup Test, which gave a score from 1 to 5. But there was a problem: high-performance materials like steel wire or fiberglass would dull the testing blade, making the results unreliable .

The 2016 update introduced a new test method called ISO 13997 (TDM-100) , which uses a straight blade and measures the force in Newtons (N) needed to cut through the material .

Key point: The higher the letter, the more force is required to cut through the glove. F is the highest level of cut protection .

How to Read the EN388 Label

An EN388 label has up to six positions :

Tip: If you see an "X" in position 2, it means the Coup Test wasn't used because the material dulls the blade — the ISO test (position 5) is the one that matters .

Which Cut Level Do You Need?

The right level depends on your specific tasks and the hazards your workers face .

Level A–B: Light Protection

Level C–D: Moderate to High Protection

Level C is a popular choice for many industrial applications where there is regular contact with sharp edges, but extreme protection isn't necessary.

Level E–F: High to Extreme Protection

The Key Rule: Balance Protection with Dexterity

A glove with Level F protection will stop a lot of blades. But it will also be thicker, stiffer, and less comfortable. Workers may take it off to do detailed tasks — and that's when injuries happen .

The best glove is the one workers actually wear.

Meiji says: Match the glove to the hazard. Don't over-specify (costs more, reduces dexterity) and don't under-specify (dangerous). Level C often hits the sweet spot for most industrial applications.

What About ANSI Levels?

The North American standard uses ANSI/ISEA 105 with levels A1 to A9 .

Conversion guide: EN Level C roughly aligns with ANSI A3-A4. EN Level F is equivalent to ANSI A8-A9 .

Meiji says: If you're selling globally, know which standard your customer uses. EN388 is common in Europe, Australia, and Asia; ANSI is the standard in North America .

The Meiji Promise

At Qingdao Meiji Labor Products Co., Ltd, we manufacture cut-resistant gloves across all EN388 levels — from light-duty assembly to extreme metal fabrication. We match the protection to the job, so your workers stay safe without sacrificing comfort.

Your hands are irreplaceable. Choose the right cut level.

* Phone: 0086-15020088730

* Visit: www.meijigloves.com

* Email: info@meijigloves.com

Qingdao Meiji — Cut protection you can trust, level by level.