A mistake that can be easy to make is assuming that both cut and puncture resistant gloves are the same. Cut and puncture resistance refers to two distinct features in gloves and provides different levels of protection. Keep reading to find out the major differences between cut and puncture resistance.

Cut or Puncture Proof?

It is important to note that no glove is necessarily cut or puncture proof. The term resistant is used to denote that a glove offers extra durability and protection against cuts or punctures. That said, cuts or punctures in gloves are still possible and not even the most durable glove is completely cut or puncture proof.

Cut Resistant Gloves

It is important to first understand what you are using gloves for when searching for a cut resistant glove. Not all gloves provide the same protection or (depending on the use) the same performance. Cut resistant gloves refer to gloves that can withstand cuts from sharp objects. This may include blades, glass, knives, and tools in construction or automotive work. They help to prevent cuts or abrasions after using tools and, (when properly used) reduce the risk of injury in workplace settings.

Puncture Resistant Gloves

Puncture resistance refers to the amount of force or stress a glove can take before tools or sharp objects can pierce through or rip the glove. Puncture resistant gloves are not necessarily cut resistant and cut resistant gloves are not necessarily puncture resistant. Puncture resistant gloves may offer resistance to needles, tattoo guns, and other finer tools. Resistance does not equal complete protection as accidents can still happen. Puncture resistant simply reduces the risk of injury to users and provides additional protection.

Our Glove Cut and Puncture Resistance

According to our Glove Chemical Resistance Chart, latex and nitrile gloves offer “excellent” cut resistance while vinyl offers “good” resistance. Latex gloves have “good” puncture resistance, while vinyl gloves have “poor” and nitrile “excellent”.

Use GloveNation’s selection of quality latex, vinyl, nitrile, and C2 Hybrid gloves to meet any glove need.