When sourcing cut-resistant gloves, one question is asked almost every time:
“What ANSI cut level is it?”
ANSI Cut Levels A1–A9 are an important reference, but in real purchasing scenarios, focusing on the cut level alone is one of the most common and costly mistakes.
Instead of repeating what A1–A9 mean, this article focuses on what buyers most often overlook—and why it matters in real-world use, compliance, and cost control.
1. Overlooking the Test Method Behind the Cut Level
Many buyers assume:
“A7 is always safer than A5.”
In reality, ANSI cut levels are determined by ASTM F2992 (TDM test), yet some products in the market are still labeled using results derived from the older Coup Test (circular blade method).
Why this matters:
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The Coup Test can overestimate performance of high-strength fibers
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Products labeled with the same “A level” may be tested using different methods
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An A5 glove tested by Coup Test may perform very differently from an A5 glove tested by TDM
What buyers often overlook:
✔ Not all “ANSI cut levels” are created equal
✔ Always confirm the cut level is based on ASTM F2992 / TDM testing
2. Treating Cut Level as an Overall Safety Rating
ANSI Cut Level A1–A9 measures cut resistance only—nothing more.
However, in purchasing decisions, it is often treated as a comprehensive protection indicator, which can lead to problems such as:
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High cut resistance but poor abrasion performance
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Strong cut protection but weak tear or puncture resistance
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Thick gloves that significantly reduce dexterity and comfort
The result?
Gloves that look great on paper—but are rejected by workers on the job.
What buyers often overlook:
ANSI cut level ≠ overall glove performance
Cut resistance should always be evaluated together with:
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Abrasion resistance
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Tear resistance
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Puncture resistance
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Dexterity and comfort
3. Over-Specifying Cut Levels Without Considering the Task
A common misconception in PPE sourcing is:
“Higher cut level means better protection.”
In practice:
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A6–A9 gloves are usually thicker and stiffer
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For assembly, packaging, or light handling tasks, they can reduce productivity
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Workers may remove or replace them with lower-grade gloves
The overlooked reality:
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Most applications do not require A7 or higher
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Over-protection increases cost and decreases compliance
Smarter sourcing focuses on:
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Type of cutting hazard
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Frequency of contact
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Force and sharpness of the cutting object
—not simply the highest ANSI rating.
4. Ignoring the Role of Coatings and Liner Materials
Two gloves with the same ANSI cut level can perform very differently in real use.
Key differences often overlooked:
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Liner materials (HPPE, fiberglass, steel, stainless steel fiber)
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Coatings (PU, nitrile, foam nitrile, latex)
These directly affect:
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Grip performance
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Durability and wear life
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Long-term comfort
What buyers often overlook:
Same cut level ≠ same wear experience
Same cut level ≠ same service life
5. Focusing on “Having a Certificate” Instead of Certificate Relevance
Many buyers only ask:
“Does it have an ANSI certificate?”
But the more important questions are:
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Is the certificate based on the current standard?
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Does it match the exact glove model and construction?
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Were other key performance areas tested, or only cut resistance?
What buyers often overlook:
Certification is not just about presence—it’s about accuracy and traceability.
Conclusion: Smart Glove Sourcing Is About Fit, Not Just Ratings
ANSI Cut Levels A1–A9 are a valuable tool—but they should be treated as a starting point, not a final decision.
Professional PPE sourcing focuses on:
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Matching protection levels to real risks
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Balancing safety with comfort and usability
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Optimizing cost through appropriate, not excessive, protection
The right cut level is always more effective than the highest cut level.
