ANSI A4 to A9 Cut Resistant Gloves: How to Choose

Understand how ANSI A4 through A9 cut resistant gloves map to industrial hazards, buyer decisions, and product selection.

By Armor Guys Technical Team. Updated May 15, 2026.

TL;DR

ANSI cut levels help safety teams compare glove cut resistance using a standardized rating system.
A4 is commonly used for moderate cut hazards, while A7 through A9 are reserved for more severe cut exposure.
The best level depends on the task, material handled, injury history, comfort requirements, and whether workers can keep the glove on all shift.

What does an ANSI cut level tell you?

An ANSI cut level tells buyers how much cut resistance a glove material demonstrated under the ANSI/ISEA 105 test method. It gives safety teams a common language for comparing gloves across product lines.

The rating is not the whole decision. Gauge, coating, puncture, abrasion, heat, chemical exposure, sizing, and worker acceptance still matter.

When should a team choose A4, A6, or A9?

A team should choose the lowest cut level that safely matches the task and keeps workers compliant. Over-specifying protection can create thick, uncomfortable gloves that workers remove, while under-specifying can leave the task exposed.

A4 can fit many medium cut tasks. A6 and above should be considered when sharp metal, glass, blades, heavy fabrication, or prior injuries show a higher hazard.

Use A4 where moderate cut risk and dexterity both matter.
Use A6 or A7 where hazards are more severe or injury history supports an upgrade.
Use A8 or A9 for extreme cut exposure where comfort and compliance can still be maintained.

How should procurement compare cut levels?

Procurement should compare cut levels alongside cost per wear, availability, worker acceptance, and documentation. The lowest unit price is not always the lowest program cost.

Sample testing is the safest way to check whether the selected cut level, coating, and fit work for the actual application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ANSI A9 always better than ANSI A4?

No. A9 has higher cut resistance, but A4 can be the better choice when the task needs more dexterity and the hazard does not require extreme cut protection.

Can one facility use multiple ANSI cut levels?

Yes. Many facilities need multiple cut levels because handling cardboard, sheet metal, glass, blades, and maintenance tasks create different levels of risk.

Should cut level be the only selection criterion?

No. Cut level is important, but coating, fit, grip, abrasion, puncture, heat, chemical exposure, and worker acceptance should all be reviewed.