Shield the tops of your hands from bumps and bruises in tight spaces around heavy equipment. These gloves are often worn when handling heavy materials or machinery. All meet ANSI/ISEA 138, which rates impact resistance based on how much force they absorb. The higher the rating, the greater the protection. They also meet ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388 standards for various forms of protection, such as cut, abrasion, and puncture resistance.

Synthetic leather gloves have more wear resistance than leather gloves.

Gloves with a reinforced thumb have additional material between the thumb and pointer finger to extend the life of the glove.

Often used in glass manufacturing and metal fabrication, these gloves protect your hands from sharp edges and intermittent heat. They’re rated to ANSI/ISEA 105 standards for cut and heat resistance. The ANSI heat rating reflects the amount of heat they can withstand before there’s a risk of second-degree burns. The higher the number, the greater the protection. Holding heavy objects may decrease the temperature rating.

ANSI cut ratings reflect the amount of force required to cut through them with a razor blade. Gloves rated A4 are good for jobs involving sharp-edged materials such as sheet metal and glass. Cotton-blend gloves are absorbent, so oil and grease won’t build up on the surface and make them slippery. Gloves with Kevlar or aramid are resistant to flames.