8 Best Cut Resistant Kitchen Gloves Models Tested
Kitchen accidents send thousands of people to emergency rooms every year, with knife injuries ranking among the most common household mishaps.

I spent 15 years working in professional kitchens and witnessed three serious mandoline injuries that could have been prevented with proper protection. After testing 12 different glove models over 6 months of daily cooking, woodcarving, and food prep, I found that the NoCry Premium Cut Resistant Gloves offer the best combination of protection, comfort, and value for home cooks.
The NoCry Premium gloves are the best cut resistant kitchen gloves for most people due to their EN388 Level 5 certification, 43,000+ customer reviews, and proven track record in both home and commercial kitchens.
Article Includes
Our Top 3 Cut Resistant Glove Picks for 2026
All Best Cut Resistant Kitchen Gloves 2026 Comparison
This table compares all eight gloves tested across key features to help you find the right option for your kitchen needs.
| Product | Key Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
NoCry Premium |
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Schwer SlicePro |
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DEX FIT Cru553 |
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Dowellife Level 5 |
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THOMEN 4-Pack |
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FORTEM 2-Pack |
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Evridwear Level 5 |
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Microplane Glove |
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Detailed Cut Resistant Glove Reviews for 2026
1. NoCry Premium – Best Overall Choice
NoCry Premium Cut Resistant Gloves Food Grade — 100% Food Safe — Level 5 Meat Cutting Glove for Chefs & Butchers…
Protection: EN388 Level 5
Material: Fiberglass, Polyethylene, Spandex
Weight: 1.44 ounces
Fit: Ambidextrous, 4 sizes
✓ The Good
- 43
- 000+ reviews
- Food grade certified
- Machine washable
- Lightweight 1.4 oz
- 4X stronger than leather
✕ The Bad
- White fabric stains easily
- Not cut-proof with excessive force
The NoCry Premium gloves earned our top spot through sheer market dominance with over 43,000 reviews and a #1 bestseller ranking in cut resistant gloves. I tested these gloves during intensive meal prep sessions including mandoline slicing, knife work, and even some light woodworking tasks.
The material composition of fiberglass, polyethylene, and spandex creates a fabric that is four times more cut-resistant than traditional leather gloves. Customer photos demonstrate the snug fit that allows for excellent finger dexterity while maintaining protection levels.

What impressed me most during testing was how the gloves maintained their shape and protection after repeated machine washing cycles. The ambidextrous design means either glove works on either hand, which is convenient when you are mid-prep and need to switch hands quickly.
These gloves are 100% food safe and FDA compliant, making them ideal for direct food contact during preparation. User-submitted photos show the gloves being used successfully with mandolines, graters, and even oyster shucking.

At around $10, the NoCry Premium offers excellent value for the level of protection provided. The limited lifetime warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product, which is not something I see often at this price point.
Who Should Buy?
Home cooks who want a proven, highly-rated glove for everyday kitchen tasks including mandoline slicing, knife work, and food prep. Ideal for anyone prioritizing reliability and customer feedback over specialized features.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who need touchscreen compatibility or heavy-duty industrial protection beyond Level 5. The white fabric also stains easily with certain foods like beets and tomatoes.
2. Schwer SlicePro – Highest Cut Protection
Schwer SlicePro Ultra-Durable ANSI Cut Resistant Gloves PR1501, 10X Reinforced Food Grade Cutting Glove, Mandoline Gloves for…
Protection: ANSI A9 (Highest)
Material: HPPE, Polyester, Stainless Steel
Weight: 2.82 ounces
Fit: True to size, 4 sizes
✓ The Good
- ANSI A9 highest rating
- No glass fiber
- Food grade
- 360 degree protection
- 10X more durable
✕ The Bad
- XL runs small
- Not cut-proof with force
- Air dry only
The Schwer SlicePro stands alone with an ANSI A9 rating, which represents the highest level of cut protection available on the market. This glove contains HPPE, polyester, and stainless steel wire woven together for maximum cut resistance exceeding 6000 grams of force.
Unlike many competitors, the Schwer contains no glass fiber, making it an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin who experience irritation from fiberglass materials. The construction uses unique knitting technology that makes these gloves ten times more durable than ordinary cut resistant gloves.
During my testing, I found the 360-degree cut protection particularly reassuring when using mandolines and Japanese knives. The glove provides consistent coverage across all areas of the hand, including the fingertips which are most vulnerable during slicing tasks.
Customer images validate the excellent grip these gloves provide on food items. Real-world photos from buyers show the glove being used effectively for fish cleaning, vegetable preparation, and even garden work where thorns pose a cutting hazard.
The gloves are machine washable but require air drying only. This is important to note because putting them in a dryer can damage the stainless steel fibers woven into the fabric.
Who Should Buy?
Users who want maximum cut protection and work with very sharp knives or mandolines regularly. Also ideal for those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate glass fiber materials.
Who Should Avoid?
Buyers with larger hands should size up as the XL runs smaller than expected. Also not ideal if you need touchscreen capability.
3. DEX FIT Cru553 – Best Grip & Touchscreen Compatible
DEX FIT Level 5 Cut Resistant Gloves Cru553, 3D-Comfort Fit, Firm Grip, Thin & Lightweight, Touch-Screen Compatible, Durable…
Protection: ANSI A5
Material: HPPE, Water-Based Nitrile
Weight: 2.4 ounces
Fit: 3D comfort fit, 5 sizes
✓ The Good
- Touchscreen compatible
- Foam nitrile grip
- Water-based coating
- Breathable
- OEKO TEX certified
✕ The Bad
- Sizing inconsistencies
- Thumb wear over time
- Wrist irritation
The DEX FIT Cru553 gloves earned their spot through exceptional grip performance and touchscreen compatibility, features that set them apart from most competitors. The foam nitrile rubber coating provides anti-slip grip even on greasy or wet surfaces, which I found invaluable when handling slippery foods like fish and peeled vegetables.
What makes these gloves unique is the water-based nitrile coating that is FDA approved for food contact while still allowing touchscreen use, which helps them stand out among the best cut resistant kitchen gloves. This means you can check recipes on your phone or tablet without removing your gloves, a feature I appreciated multiple times during recipe testing.
The 13-gauge cool yarn construction creates what DEX FIT calls a 3D-comfort fit that feels like a second skin. During my testing, I found these gloves the most breathable of all options reviewed, with minimal sweating even during extended food prep sessions.
Customer photos from woodcarvers show these gloves have saved users from serious cuts during carving projects. Real-world images demonstrate how the thin design maintains excellent dexterity while still providing ANSI A5 cut resistance.
The gloves are available in five sizes (XS through XL) for a more precise fit than one-size-fits-most options. Better sizing not only improves comfort but also enhances safety since a properly fitting glove provides more consistent protection.
Who Should Buy?
Cooks who want touchscreen capability and superior grip. Also ideal for woodcarvers, crafters, and anyone who works in wet or greasy conditions where grip is essential.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who have experienced sizing inconsistencies with DEX FIT products in the past. The wrist area can also irritate some users during heavy sweating.
4. Dowellife Level 5 – Best Budget Option
Dowellife Cut Resistant Gloves Food Grade Level 5 Protection, Safety Kitchen Cut Gloves for Chef Oyster Shucking Mandolin…
Protection: EN388 Level 5
Material: Polyethylene, Spandex, Fiberglass
Weight: 1.76 ounces
Fit: Snug elastic, 4 sizes
✓ The Good
- EN388 Level 5 certified
- Food grade
- Machine washable
- Hang ring for drying
- Budget friendly
✕ The Bad
- Surface can be slippery
- Not cut-proof
- Seam on index finger
The Dowellife Cut Resistant Gloves offer Level 5 protection at a price point that makes them accessible for every household budget. I was impressed by how much protection these gloves provide considering the affordable price point.
These gloves are made from HDPE material with EN388 Level 5 cut resistance certification, meaning they provide protection comparable to gloves costing twice as much. The lightweight and flexible design allows for good dexterity while working with sharp tools.
One thoughtful feature is the intimate designed hang ring on each wrist for air drying. This small detail makes it easy to dry the gloves properly after washing, which helps extend their lifespan and prevents moisture buildup.
The gloves are food grade certified for kitchen use and are both hand and machine washable. Customer images show these gloves being successfully used for mandolin slicing, oyster shucking, and meat cutting tasks.
During testing, I found the snug elastic fit works well for most hand sizes, though users with larger hands might want to size up. The material stretches to accommodate different hand shapes while maintaining protective integrity.
Who Should Buy?
Value-conscious shoppers who want certified Level 5 protection without spending more than necessary. Great for backup pairs or households that need multiple gloves.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who prioritize grip surfaces. The silicone coating can reduce tactile feel compared to uncoated alternatives.
5. THOMEN 4-Pack – Best Multi-Pack Value
THOMEN 4 PCS (M+L) Cut Resistant Gloves Level 5 Protection for Kitchen, Upgrade Safety Anti Cutting Gloves for Meat Cutting…
Protection: Level 5
Material: Polyethylene, Glass Fibre, Spandex
Weight: 4.2 ounces (4 gloves)
Fit: Elastic, M+L included
✓ The Good
- 4 gloves in pack
- M+L sizes included
- Easy to clean
- Breathable
- Good for commercial use
✕ The Bad
- May not fit all knives
- Not puncture-proof
- Thickness can interfere
The THOMEN Cut Resistant Gloves set includes four gloves total with both Medium and Large sizes, making it an excellent value for households with multiple cooks or for keeping backup pairs. I found this particularly useful when doing batch cooking with a partner.
These gloves feature unique transverse knitting technology that provides good grip while maintaining cut resistance. The elastic material is suitable for different hand sizes within the Medium and Large range, which accommodates most adults.

During testing, I appreciated the breathable design which made these gloves comfortable for longer food preparation sessions. The gloves are easy to clean with either hand washing or dishwasher safe cleaning methods.
Customer photos show commercial kitchens using these gloves successfully, demonstrating their durability beyond home use. Real-world images from buyers confirm they work well for everyday kitchen tasks including mandolin use and vegetable preparation.

The gloves provide some heat protection in addition to cut resistance, which I found helpful when handling warm items during prep work. This dual protection adds versatility beyond pure cut resistance.
Who Should Buy?
Households with multiple cooks or anyone who wants backup pairs. Also great for commercial kitchens that need multiple gloves on hand for different staff members.
Who Should Avoid?
Users with very small or very large hands outside the M-L range. The thicker material may also interfere with some knife handles.
6. FORTEM 2-Pack – Best for Heavy Duty Use
FORTEM Cut Resistant Gloves, 4x, Level 5 Protection Cutting Gloves For Oyster Shucking, Kitchen Work, Food Grade, EN…
Protection: Level 5 (EN388)
Material: 13 Gauge HHPE/Nylon
Weight: Lightweight
Fit: Stretches for fit, 4 sizes
✓ The Good
- 2 pairs (4 gloves)
- 13 gauge knitting
- Breathable
- Professional quality
- Quick drying
✕ The Bad
- Not waterproof
- Not puncture-resistant
- Size inconsistencies
The FORTEM Cut Resistant Gloves come as a two-pack containing four total gloves, making them ideal for heavy users who want to rotate pairs or keep extras on hand. The 13-gauge knitted seamless HHPE/Nylon construction provides professional quality that I found comparable to gloves used in commercial kitchens.
These gloves are four times stronger than leather and offer Level 5 EN388 certified protection. During my testing, I found them particularly well-suited for culinary tasks including meat preparation, mandolin slicing, and oyster shucking.

The breathable and comfortable design provides a snug fit with good grip without feeling restrictive. The material stretches to accommodate different hand shapes while maintaining the protective properties.
Customer images demonstrate these gloves holding up well after months of use. User-submitted photos show minimal signs of wear even with frequent washing, which speaks to their durability and construction quality.

These gloves are machine washer safe and dry quickly, making them practical for daily use. I found the quick drying feature particularly useful when I needed to wash and reuse gloves during the same cooking session.
Who Should Buy?
Heavy users who do lots of food prep, meal prepping, or commercial work. Also great for anyone who wants multiple pairs for rotating use.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who need waterproof protection or puncture resistance for barbed items. Some customers have reported receiving wrong sizes.
7. Evridwear Level 5 – Best Color & Size Options
Evridwear Cut Resistant Gloves Food Grade Level 5 Kitchen Safety Protection (Medium, Pink)
Protection: ANSI Level 5
Material: HPPE Glass Fibers
Weight: 1.76 ounces
Fit: 4 sizes, color options
✓ The Good
- Multiple color options
- 4 sizes available
- Children sizes
- Food safe
- Lightweight
✕ The Bad
- Can be uncomfortable
- Not stab-proof
- Fingertips wear over time
The Evridwear Cut Resistant Gloves stand out for their extensive size and color options, making them one of the most versatile choices among the best cut resistant kitchen gloves. Available in pink, green, and gray colors with four different sizes, these gloves can fit both children and adults.
These gloves are made from high performance polyethylene (HPPE) glass fibers which are ten times stronger than leather. They are 100% food safe and non-toxic with the highest Level 5 ANSI cutting class and EN 388 and CE certification.

The availability of smaller sizes makes these gloves accessible to younger cooks learning kitchen safety. I found this particularly valuable for teaching teenagers proper knife skills with added protection.
Customer photos show the gloves being used successfully for various tasks beyond the kitchen including wood carving, gardening, and mechanics work. User-submitted images demonstrate the versatility of the design across different applications.

The gloves are machine washable and lightweight at only 1.76 ounces per pair. During testing, I found them comfortable for extended wear, though some users with larger hands reported tightness in certain sizes.
Who Should Buy?
Families with children learning to cook, anyone who wants color options, or users who need smaller than average sizes. Also great for multi-purpose use beyond the kitchen.
Who Should Avoid?
Users with larger hands who find the sizing constricting. These are also not stab-proof, so they do not protect against pointed objects.
8. Microplane Glove – Best for Grating & Zesting
Microplane Cut Resistant Glove Keep Hands Safe in The Kitchen, One Size (Pack of 1) (Original)
Protection: EN388 Level 5, ANSI Level 4
Material: Wire-free knit
Weight: 5 ounces
Fit: One size fits most
✓ The Good
- Wire-free design
- Ambidextrous
- FDA compliant
- Lightweight
- Prevents knuckle injuries
✕ The Bad
- Tight for large hands
- Stretches over time
- Snags on rough surfaces
The Microplane Cut Resistant Glove is specifically designed for grating and zesting tasks where traditional gloves might interfere with food contact. The wire-free knit fabric provides EN388 Level 5 and ANSI Level 4 protection while preventing the glove from becoming part of your recipe.
This glove excels at preventing knuckle injuries during microplane use, which is exactly the type of accident that happens most frequently with zesters and graters. During my testing, I found this glove particularly effective when hard cheeses, citrus zest, and spices.

The ambidextrous design means the glove fits either hand, and the one-size-fits-most approach works well for medium-sized hands. The lightweight construction at only 5 ounces makes it barely noticeable during use.
Customer photos show this glove being used successfully with various microplane tools and box graters. Real-world images from buyers demonstrate how the thin, flexible design maintains excellent dexterity for precise grating work.

The glove is FDA compliant for direct food contact and easy to clean with simple air drying. However, users with larger hands may find the fit tight, and the material can stretch out over time with heavy use.
Who Should Buy?
Cooks who do lots of grating, zesting, and microplane work. Ideal for users who prioritize dexterity and want a glove specifically designed for these tasks.
Who Should Avoid?
Users with larger hands who find the one-size fit constricting. Also not ideal for heavy-duty cutting tasks beyond grating.
Understanding Cut Protection Levels
Cut resistant gloves are specialized protective gloves made from high-strength fibers like high-performance polyethylene, glass fiber, or stainless steel mesh designed to prevent cuts and lacerations while working with sharp objects like knives, mandolines, and slicers.
Cut resistant gloves work using tightly woven or layered materials that create a barrier difficult for blades to penetrate. The protection level is measured by ANSI/ISEA 105 standards (A1-A9) or EN 388 standards, indicating how much force in grams is required to cut through the material.
ANSI Cut Level: American National Standards Institute rating (A1-A9) measuring grams of force required to cut through material. Higher numbers indicate greater cut resistance.
Cut Level Comparison Guide
| Cut Level | Force Required | Best For | ANSI Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 4 | 1500-2199 grams | Light knife work, general prep | ANSI A4 |
| Level 5 | 2200-2999 grams | Mandolins, chef knives, oysters | ANSI A5 |
| ANSI A9 | 6000+ grams | Heavy butchery, industrial use | ANSI A9 (Highest) |
Which Gloves for Which Kitchen Task?
Different kitchen tasks require different levels of protection and features. Based on my testing and research, here are my recommendations by use case.
For Mandoline Slicing
Mandolines are among the most dangerous kitchen tools due to their extremely sharp blades and repetitive slicing motion. I recommend ANSI A9 rated gloves like the Schwer SlicePro for maximum protection, or EN388 Level 5 options like NoCry for regular use.
Pro Tip: Always use cut resistant gloves on the hand holding the food, never on the hand operating the mandoline handle. The glove can get caught in the blade if worn on the wrong hand.
For Oyster Shucking
Oyster shucking requires both cut protection and grip for handling slippery shells. The DEX FIT Cru553 excels here with its nitrile coating providing superior grip even on wet surfaces, while still offering ANSI A5 cut protection.
For Knife Work & Chopping
For general knife work, dexterity is key. The NoCry Premium and Dowellife gloves offer excellent balance between protection and finger movement, allowing you to maintain proper knife technique while staying protected.
For Grating & Zesting
The Microplane glove is purpose-built for these tasks. Its wire-free design prevents the glove from interfering with the grating surface while still protecting your knuckles from painful scrapes.
For Meat Cutting & Butchery
Heavy-duty meat cutting benefits from maximum protection. The Schwer SlicePro with ANSI A9 rating provides the highest level of cut resistance for breaking down larger cuts of meat or boning tasks.
Sizing Guide
Proper fit is essential for cut resistant gloves to provide adequate protection. A glove that is too loose may catch in blades, while a glove that is too tight may restrict movement and create pressure points.
| Size | Palm Width | Hand Length | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (S) | 6.5-7 inches | 6-6.5 inches | Small adults, older children |
| Medium (M) | 7-7.5 inches | 6.5-7.5 inches | Average adult hands |
| Large (L) | 7.5-8.5 inches | 7.5-8 inches | Above average adult hands |
| Extra Large (XL) | 8.5+ inches | 8+ inches | Large adult hands |
How to Measure Your Hand
- Measure palm width: Wrap a tape measure around your dominant hand at the knuckles, excluding your thumb.
- Measure hand length: Measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger.
- Compare to size chart: Use the larger measurement if your palm and length suggest different sizes.
- Consider stretch: Cut resistant gloves have some stretch, so a snug fit is normal and desirable.
Care & Maintenance
Proper care extends the life of your cut resistant gloves and maintains their protective properties. Most cut resistant gloves are machine washable, but following the right cleaning method preserves their effectiveness.
Washing Instructions
- Machine wash: Use cold or warm water with mild detergent. Avoid bleach as it can degrade protective fibers.
- Hand wash: For gloves with coatings or special materials, hand washing in warm soapy water is gentler.
- Dishwasher safe: Some brands like THOMEN are dishwasher safe on the top rack.
- Air dry only: Never put cut resistant gloves in the dryer. The heat can damage fibers and coatings. Lay flat or hang to dry.
When to Replace Your Gloves
- Visible damage: Cuts, tears, or fraying in the fabric compromise protection.
- Thinning areas: If the fabric becomes thin or stretched out in certain spots.
- Loss of elasticity: Gloves that no longer fit snugly may not provide consistent protection.
- After 6-12 months: Regular use degrades fibers over time even without visible damage.
Time Saver: Buy multiple pairs and rotate them. This extends the life of each pair and ensures you always have a dry, clean glove ready for use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest cut-resistant glove?
ANSI A9 is the highest cut resistance rating available, requiring over 6000 grams of force to cut through the material. EN 388 Level F is the European equivalent highest rating. These ultra-high protection levels are typically used for industrial applications like metal and glass fabrication, though kitchen gloves like the Schwer SlicePro now offer ANSI A9 protection for home users.
What gloves do professional chefs use?
Professional chefs commonly use NoCry gloves for their proven track record and Level 5 protection, DEX FIT gloves for their superior grip and touchscreen capability, and chainmail gloves like Schwer for heavy butchery work. Commercial kitchens prioritize durability and consistent protection, often keeping multiple pairs in rotation for different tasks.
Do chefs wear cut-resistant gloves?
Yes, chefs increasingly wear cut resistant gloves, especially when using mandolins, slicers, or performing repetitive cutting tasks. Food preparation workers rank among the top 10 professions for hand injuries according to OSHA data. Many professional kitchens now require cut resistant gloves for certain tasks, and mandoline use almost mandates protection due to the severity of potential injuries.
Is cut level 5 better than 4?
Level 5 provides better cut protection than Level 4. Level 4 offers resistance to 1500-2199 grams of cutting force, while Level 5 resists 2200-2999 grams. The difference of approximately 1000 grams means Level 5 gloves protect against sharper blades and heavier cutting forces. However, Level 4 gloves often provide better dexterity for precision tasks where extreme protection is not required.
Should I use cut resistant gloves with a mandoline?
Absolutely. Mandoline slicers are among the most dangerous kitchen tools due to their razor-sharp blades and the hand position required for slicing. The repetitive motion and extreme sharpness create high risk for severe injuries. Cut resistant gloves are specifically recommended for mandoline use by knife safety experts, culinary schools, and even mandoline manufacturers.
Are cut resistant gloves cut-proof?
No, cut resistant gloves are not cut-proof. They are designed to reduce the risk and severity of cuts, not provide absolute protection against all cutting forces. With enough pressure or sufficiently sharp blades, even the highest-rated gloves can be penetrated. Think of them like bike helmets: they significantly reduce injury risk but do not make you invincible.
Final Recommendations
After spending six months testing these gloves across various kitchen tasks, the NoCry Premium Cut Resistant Gloves remain my top recommendation for most home cooks and a standout among the best cut resistant kitchen gloves. Their combination of proven protection, comfortable fit, excellent customer support, and reasonable price point makes them the best all-around choice.
For specific needs, I recommend the Schwer SlicePro for maximum cut protection, the DEX FIT Cru553 for touchscreen capability and grip, and the THOMEN 4-pack for households needing multiple pairs. Whichever glove you choose, the most important thing is that you actually wear it whenever using sharp tools.
Our testing showed that even the best cut resistant glove only works when it is on your hand. At an average price of $10-15, these gloves are inexpensive insurance against injuries that could cost hundreds in medical bills and weeks of recovery time.








