Choosing the Right Abrasion Level for the Job

The abrasion score indicates how long a glove is likely to last when exposed to abrasive surfaces.

Lower levels (0–1) are suited to light tasks such as packaging, inspection, and assembly, where contact with rough materials is minimal.

Mid-range levels (2–3) are appropriate for general handling, construction, maintenance, and logistics tasks involving more frequent abrasion, such as pallet handling.

Higher levels (4–6) are designed for heavy-duty environments with continuous wear from rough or sharp materials, including metal handling, concrete work, waste management, and oil and gas applications. In these cases, a higher abrasion rating can extend glove life and reduce replacement frequency.

Selecting the correct level is key, as over-specifying may reduce dexterity, while under-specifying can lead to premature failure.

At Tilsatec, we’re often asked: What’s the real difference between cut level A5 and level A9 gloves, and which should you choose? 

Not all cut resistant gloves are created equal. If you’ve ever compared A5 and A9 cut gloves and wondered what the real difference is, you’re not alone. 

These ratings come from the ANSI 105-24 standard and are used to match glove performance to the risks you’re working with. In this article, we’ll break down what those cut levels actually mean, ASTM F2992 testing and how it is relevant for higher rated gloves, and where you’re most likely to see each level used in real working environments.