Glove Cut Levels Explained: Numerical to A–F Comparison
Safety gloves can show cut resistance using an older numerical rating or the newer A–F ISO cut scale. If you are comparing glove listings, you may see both systems and wonder how a numerical Level 5 relates to a letter such as C, D or F.
This guide gives a rough comparison for orientation, while explaining why the two ratings should not be treated as a precise conversion.
Numerical glove cut ratings and A–F levels
| ISO 13997 cut level | Approximate original numerical cut level | How to use this comparison |
|---|---|---|
| A | Level 1–2 | Lower cut-resistance range |
| B | Level 3–4 | Intermediate cut-resistance range |
| C | Level 5 | The older Level 5 result covers a broad range. Check the actual A–F rating and manufacturer data. |
| D | Level 5 | |
| E | Level 5 | |
| F | Level 5 |
Important: this is an approximate comparison guide, not a one-to-one conversion. The numerical coupe test and the A–F ISO 13997 test use different methods, so the same glove material can produce results that do not line up neatly between the two systems.
What do the A–F glove cut levels mean?
The A–F scale is based on the force needed to cut through a test sample. As the letter increases, the classification represents a higher force range in the ISO 13997 test:
| ISO cut level | Minimum force used for classification |
|---|---|
| A | 2N or more |
| B | 5N or more |
| C | 10N or more |
| D | 15N or more |
| E | 22N or more |
| F | 30N or more |
The letter describes the result of the ISO test. It does not mean that the glove is suitable for every sharp-object hazard, and it should not be used on its own to choose PPE.
Why does Level 5 cover several letter levels?
The traditional numerical coupe test and the ISO 13997 test measure cut resistance differently. The older Level 5 category can therefore cover materials that receive a range of A–F results when assessed using the ISO method. That is why a simple conversion table cannot tell you the exact letter rating for every Level 5 glove.
Where a glove has both results available, use the actual A–F ISO rating shown in the product information. If only an older numerical rating is shown, do not assume a precise letter equivalent.
What does glove cut level C mean?
ISO cut level C indicates a classification of 10N or more in the ISO 13997 test. It is a useful point of reference for comparing gloves, but the right level depends on the sharpness and shape of the hazard, the task, the force involved, the working method and the rest of the risk assessment.
What does glove cut level 5 mean?
Numerical Level 5 is the top category in the older coupe cut scale, but it is not equivalent to one single A–F level. A Level 5 glove may need further product information before you can compare it accurately with an ISO-rated glove.
Choosing cut-resistant gloves
Use the rating as one part of the selection process. Check the manufacturer's technical data, the glove's full EN388 marking, the intended task and the workplace risk assessment. Also consider dexterity, grip, puncture resistance, tear resistance, heat or chemical hazards and whether the glove works with other PPE.
For a full explanation of every part of the marking, read our EN388 glove markings guide.
Important reminder
This page is a general comparison guide. It is not a substitute for the manufacturer's test data, a competent risk assessment or current workplace PPE guidance. Never select gloves based on a numerical-to-letter comparison alone.