Best Gloves For Sheet Metal Work in 2024 | Top 10 Picks

Best Gloves

It’s important to get the right gloves for sheet metal work. If you don’t have good gloves on when you’re metalworking, then your hands are going to get cut up badly.

Your gloves need to be strong, have comfortable material inside, be lightweight and flexible. So this gives you full range of motion with your hand movements, while also protecting your fingertips. And, naturally, it should be easy to put on.

Until you try them on, you can’t tell if these gloves are good, so we’ll tell you what to look for when choosing the best gloves for sheet metal work.

NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves

Level 5 Protection Stark Safe Gloves

Metal Mesh Cut Resistant Gloves

Top 10 Best Gloves for Metalworking

We all know that safety is the most important thing in the world when it comes to metal stamping. The problem is that there are so many different types of gloves out there, and it can be hard to tell which ones are best for this type of job.

Here we will explore our top 10 choices and what we think makes them stand out.

1. NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves

NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves, the best cut-resistant glove for metalworking, can be worn while doing everyday household chores to shield your hands against injuries caused by accidental cuttings with knives, peelers, box-cutters, etc.

Unlike other gloves, these gloves keep your hands cool and dry, which allows you to easily carry out tasks like peeling potatoes or chopping vegetables without worrying about how sharp the utensils are.

NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves are one of the best gloves for metalworking to shield your fingers from being cut. The palm of this glove is wrapped in Kevlar, ensuring that the wearer’s palms are protected against cuts.

Anyone who has ever had a knife fall while cutting vegetables or who wants to avoid being cut when handling sharp objects will benefit from them by choosing NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves. These gloves are light and comfortable, so you won’t feel that your hands are heavy.

Highlighted Features:

  • Keeps hands cool and dry
  • Made of durable material
  • Protects both your palms from being cut
  • Easy to wear

2. CLC 125M Handyman Custom Leathercraft Flex Grip Work Gloves

The Handyman Work Gloves from CLC Custom Leathercraft can be one of the best gloves for metalworking because they keep your hands warm, have precise cut-resistant stitching, and have a great handle.

These versatile gloves can be used in various applications, from carpentry to automotive to basic utility chores. With over 30 years as the industry standard, these durable gloves are unrivaled in innovation, craftsmanship, quality, and customer service.  

Whether you are working with metals of various shapes and sizes, cut-resistant gloves can provide several benefits. 125M Handyman Flex Grip Glove has cut-resistant stitching on the fingers, palm, and thumb that is durable enough for jobs like punching holes in metal sheeting.

Not only will that defend your hands against sharp edges or flying debris during the job, but it will also reduce injury if you accidentally bump into something sharp yourself.

The CLC Custom Leathercraft Gloves provide superior flexibility compared to bulkier gloves or mittens because each fingertip is fitted with a conductive synthetic leather patch that helps increase your control.

Highlighted Features:

  • The gloves keep your hands warm.
  • Avoids injury from bumping into rough objects.
  • Gloves with cut resistance
  • The grip is excellent

3. DEX FIT Cut Resistant Gloves 3D Comfort Stretch Fit Level 5

DEX FIT cut-resistant gloves are designed to defend your fingers, hands, and wrists from cutting materials by providing a safe grasp. They have 3D Comfort Stretch Fit, so they offer the perfect fit for any size hand and will not restrict motion.

DEXFIT cut-resistant gloves also provide excellent protection against both wet and dry surfaces and have a high level of cut resistance. Get the perfect fit with DEX FIT gloves that provide you with hand safety from harmful elements, a good grip, a comfortable fit, and a flexible movement in your fingers when working with cutting objects in metalworking.

They are designed for comfort and fit so that they can last longer than other brands. These 3D stretch padded gloves provide excellent protection against puncture to the hands when handling knives, blades, plastics, or other construction items.

DEXFIT is an industry leader that offers high-quality solutions with excellent service. Their products will not let you down when you are working under pressure or in high-risk areas.

Another fact that sets them apart is that they are designed to be used for extended periods of time, which means workers can wear them with full confidence in their hand’s safety without the fear of losing grip when using hazardous objects.

Highlighted Features:

  • 3D Comfort Stretch Fit for a perfect fit
  • Protection against cuts and punctures for the hands
  • They are designed to be used for extended periods of time
  • Protection against both wet and dry surfaces
  • Have a high level of cut resistance

4. Level 5 Protection Stark Safe Gloves

Level 5 Protection Stark Safe Gloves are the best when it comes to cut-resistant gloves. These 100% polyethylene surgical-grade gloves offer an unmatched level of protection for both hands and fingers, helping you avoid cuts in your workplace or at home.

Stark glove fabric is made from food-grade polyethylene and silica-based fibers that keep your hands dry while preventing heat buildup. These cut-resistant gloves are perfect for everything from food prep to metalwork.

A unique comfort fit design provides dexterity. The breathable fabric makes these cut-proof gloves sweatproof as well, keeping you cool even in hot working conditions or during other strenuous activities.

You can find a pair that fits your hand comfortably and snugly in sizes ranging from extra small to double extra-large. You can choose Stark Safe Cut Resistant Gloves and get back to work with confidence and ease of mind.

It provides more cut resistance than Kevlar, yet it breathes like cotton and is soft to the touch. Stark offers several styles of cut-resistant gloves for any job.

Highlighted Features:

  • 100% polyethylene surgical-grade gloves
  • Maximum cut resistance and protection
  • It comes in various sizes to suit the wearer’s needs.
  • Made from food-grade polyethylene and silica-based fibers
  • The breathable fabric makes these  gloves sweatproof

5. NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves with Rubber Grip Dots

NoCry cut-resistant gloves provide great protection against blades, needles, and other sharp objects, so you don’t have to worry about being hurt. These gloves are great for woodworking, whittling, Christmas lighting, and many other tasks.

These gloves have a knit mix of steel and spandex, so they are not too thick. These gloves can be worn while you are woodworking, metalworking, sanding, or laying roofing.

NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves with Rubber Grip Dots are really well made with elegant construction that ensures durability when used with proper care. The fingertips are finished inside and outside for comfort, along with added cut protection to the area where most accidents occur.

These gloves are cut-resistant and can be used for any type of project that requires protection. Your hands will not get cut by accident anymore with these NoCry cut-resistant gloves.

Highlighted Features:

  • Knit/spandex mix for easy wear
  • Not too thick, can be worn while woodworking, metalworking
  • Cut-resistant can be used for any project that needs protection
  • Finished fingertips inside and out for comfort

6. OZERO Flex Grip Stretchable Wrist Tough Leather Work Gloves

OZERO Flex Grip Stretchable Wrist Tough Leather Work Gloves are made from high-quality cowhide leather, which is flexible, durable, and easy to use. The glove’s interior is made from non-irritant materials that are breathable, sweat absorbing, and soft on the skin.

These gloves can be used for heavy-duty metalworking/woodworking/engineering construction/gardening, or any other type of work. They are ideal for all kinds of work.

They are lightweight. They have a tacky grip surface on the palm to give you excellent grip power when handling wet or dry items.

The glove’s cuff is made from leather and has an adjustable fit with an elastic sleeve. It can be pulled up for extra protection against debris during activities like cleaning out the garage, mowing the lawn, collecting leaves, stacking firewood outdoors, or doing yard work.

You’ll also have peace of mind that your hands are protected while using lawnmowers, leaf blowers, power washers, and other gardening tools.

Highlighted Features:

  • Made from high-quality cowhide leather
  • Flexible, durable, and easy to use
  • Skin-friendly non-irritating material lines the glove’s interior
  • Provide superior grip with a tacky grip surface on the palm

7. Schwer 2.0 Cut Resistant Glove New Version of Level 9

Schwer 2.0 Cut Resistant Glove is the new, upgraded version of Level 9.

These gloves are 16 times more durable because they are made from high-strength polyethylene fibers and stainless steel wire, which make them cut-resistant to the rope while maintaining their 9 point cut prevention rating.

When you purchase your pair today, you’ll also get a free pair of nylon cotton work gloves! These heavier-weight, denser tissue work gloves offer added comfort and durability during contact with edged tools or cutting surfaces, potentially extending their lifespan during use.

When you bend out hard objects from pockets or work on dull edges, the gloves will shield you from punctures and scratches. They are also perfect for construction, landscaping, and gardening work because they safeguard your fingers from thorns and other potentially harmful edges when working outside.

Highlighted Features:

  • 16 times more durable than regular gloves
  • Polyethylene fibers and stainless steel wire
  • 9 point cut prevention rating
  • A bonus pair of nylon cotton work gloves
  • Protecting you from punctures and scratches

8. Wire Metal Mesh Cut Resistant  Gloves

Wire metal mesh gloves are cut-resistant and great for general-purpose work in dirty or dangerous areas. High-strength polyethylene fibers with woven stainless steel cover fingers, palms, knuckles, and the back of your hand.

They are specially designed to provide protection at a level 9 cutting resistance glove. These gloves are perfect for a range of applications from cutting, slicing, shucking, carving, and peeling food in the kitchen. The glove is also ideal for metalworking, gardening, mechanic work, construction work, and fishing.

100% safe for food and machine washable. Gloves will shield your hands while you cut or slice through anything from meat to vegetables or fruits. Simply put gloves on before you begin any activity that would otherwise leave your hands dirty or exposed to possible cuts and scrapes.

This glove will not lose its texture or strength even after washing it in the machine. The glove comes in a 1-pair pack and is available in different sizes for your comfort. Sizes come in small, medium, large, and extra-large.

Highlighted Features:

  • Provide protection with level 9 cut resistance
  • A great glove for dirty work in hazardous areas
  • Gloves are machine washable for the easy cleanup
  • 100% safe for food

9. MAFORES Cut Resistant Gloves Level 9

MAFORES gloves are the ideal glove for metalworking. They offer stylish protection and a fashionable look. When you work in construction or heavy machinery, cutting your fingertips can pose a danger to your health. These injuries can be prevented by MAFORes Level9 Cut Resistant Gloves.

The A9 cut-resistant glove offers extreme protection while still remaining functional and comfortable in difficult conditions.

The 2.0 modified steel glove is extremely durable and protects your hands with anti-slip features at the palm and back. This ensures a solid grip in all conditions. The glove’s flexible size and easy grip make it ideal for metalwork.

MAFORES gloves have a more functional look than they do fashion. Safety is always top of mind, but it doesn’t mean that they can’t be stylish and keep you safe. This glove will be durable and long-lasting.

Highlighted Features:

  • The A9 cut-resistant glove offers extreme protection
  • Functional and comfortable in difficult conditions
  • The 2.0 upgraded stainless steel glove is extremely durable and
  • Protects your hands with anti-slip features at the palm and back

10. Superior Cut Resistant Work Gloves Kevlar Lined Goatskin Leather

These Superior cut-proof gloves are perfect for those who work with metallic sheets and need to keep their hands safe. They’re also great for construction workers. The glove is made with Kevlar and glass-reinforced goat leather that resists any cuts or abrasions you might encounter at home or on the job.

The glove has a keystone thumb that grips the surface you’re using, allowing you to hold onto your tools while protecting your hands from injury.

The glove is lightweight and breathable,defenses comfortable even in warmer work environments. It also maintains precision, so you’ll have no problem picking up or holding smaller items. And these gloves are versatile. Use them for work on your car, in your yard, while working with metal at the job site, or anywhere else you need protective gloves.

You can use these cut-resistant gloves while performing various tasks at home or during the day at the construction site. Customers who purchased this glove appreciate their durability and strength against potential cuts or knife wounds when working with metal or other tools.

They are also comfortable enough to wear all day, and customers agree that they stay cool even in warmer work environments. In addition, many customers note how easy these gloves are to keep clean.

Highlighted Features:

  • Durable glove made from goatskin and Kevlar
  • Resist cuts from any metal or tools you may encounter
  • Gloves maintain dexterity to pick up and hold smaller items easily
  • It can be used all day, even in warmer environments
  • A lightweight glove that’s breathable on top of being cut-resistant

Facts To Consider While Buying Gloves for Sheet Metal Work

abrasion resistance

Fabrication

Sheets typically involve working with sharp tools, and cut-resistant gloves can prevent injuries. There are many glove materials to choose from when you’re looking for the best glove for metallurgical work, but not all of them will shield your hands from cuts and other injuries while working.

Some glove materials will rip or tear easily, while others won’t provide any protection at all. When shopping around for a good glove that you’ll feel comfortable wearing, look for one made from a sturdy material that’s going to hold up against the steel sheets you use to make the things you enjoy.

Leather is often a good option because it offers more protection than fabric gloves, but even leather can be cut if it isn’t properly by another layer of material. Kevlar, for example, is a material that’s used to make many glove types cut-resistant.

Another thing to keep in mind is glove flexibility. Some glove materials are more flexible than others, and your gloves should allow enough room for tactile movement so you can grip the sheet properly without dropping it or compromising safety. Make sure any glove you choose has the right amount of flexion to work with metal or steel sheets while still protecting your hands from injury.

In addition, check out glove types that may offer Dots of Protection which could help save you from accidentally getting stuck by needles when making projects on sheets of metal.

Cut Resistance

metal stamping

Another thing to consider when choosing glove material is its ability to defend you from injuries. No glove on the market is going to make it impossible for you to cut yourself, but a glove that’s made of strong materials will resist cuts and slashes from things like metal sheets or blades that can turn into serious injuries quickly.

Some glove types are more protective than others, so look for a glove that has a protective coating against any kind of punctures or lacerations.

In addition, some gloves have small bumps on their fingertips called Dots of Protection which help prevent accidental needle sticks while working with metal. Not all glove types come with Dots of Protection, but gloves that do may offer better protection than one that doesn’t.

While many glove manufacturers will sell gloves with protective webbing between the glove and metal as an added line of defence, others make cut-proof gloves designed to reduce injury from dangerous objects.

We recommend these alternatives if you’re working with metals regularly. Look for labels like “cut-resistant” or “high resistance”. Keep in mind: depending on the glove or alternative you choose, even cut-resistant or protective gloves may not be completely impervious to cuts. Some metals will still end up cutting through certain glove types, but it does increase your odds considerably.

Metal debris leftover from cutting tools is especially dangerous, so always be aware of where you stand during production or cutting processes. Make sure to take extra care when handling these cut-resistant gloves in order to reduce the risk of injury.

Abrasion Resistance

protect hands

Another reason cut-resistant gloves are needed in the fabrication world is that gloves can protect against abrasions. Gloves that are made of fabric typically aren’t cut-resistant, but they often do offer abrasion tolerance when working with long sheets or pieces of metal.

Fabric gloves will protect your hands from friction against the cut surface, helping to reduce injuries like calluses and blisters. Fabric gloves don’t always come cut-resistant, though there are some fabrics that offer cut protection without sacrificing abrasion tolerance.

Temperature tolerant

level of cut protection

Make sure your gloves are heat resistant. In fact, gloves for metalworking should be comfortable in all weather. When you’re working with metal, your hands are going to get sweaty and uncomfortable quickly, so glove materials that are breathable are key to comfort.

However, glove materials aren’t equally breathable for warm or cold temperatures. Some glove types will provide warmth even during the coldest months of the year, while others do better in the summer heat without making your hands sweat.

Consider glove material when shopping around since some glove types offer better warmth or cooling properties than others. This may play a part in what glove type you choose since it could make a difference in how often you wear gloves while working with steel sheets.

Choosing the right Fit

great dexterity

Choosing glove material is only part of the equation when it comes to glove selection. Gloves sizes vary from small all the way up to 2XL, so make sure you know what glove size you’ll need for a good fit.

For example, a glove that fits your hand properly won’t be possible if your gloves are too big or too small for your hands. The palm area of the glove needs to have just enough space for you to pick up and hold objects properly without dropping them because gloves that don’t fit correctly could easily slip out of your hands while working with steel.

When shopping around, look at glove sizing information before buying anything to ensure each glove type offers the right fit for your hands, no matter what glove material you decide to go with.

Gloves for metalwork need a glove type that’s cut-resistant and offers comfortable flexion so it can shield your hands while working with steel.

Dexterity

outdoor work

Dexterity is important when it comes to glove selection because you’ll need gloves that give you the tactile dexterity needed to work with metal pieces.

In addition, glove material needs to be able to safeguard your hands from cuts and punctures as well as offer a certain level of durability,, so glove materials will last for a long time even if you’re using them every day.

Even glove fitting is important since there’s no guarantee a glove type will fit your hand properly. Ultimately, finding the best gloves for metalworking means finding a glove that protects your hands from injuries while allowing you to have enough dexterity to do your job properly.

You should look for glove types that are made of tough materials so they’ll last even when you’re working with tough metal pieces.

Breathability

american national standards institute

Breathability is the ability of a glove to allow air and moisture through to the skin. This can be extremely important since sheets of metal can make your hands sweat quickly, as well as lead you to have rough calluses without proper gloves.

In general, leather gloves are better at breathability, but other alternatives include cloth or suede gloves with vent holes for maximum comfort and protection.

Affordability:

Cut protection

Finding affordable gloves for metalworking can be easy if you know what glove type is best suited for this type of job.

Gloves designed specifically for metalwork are usually sold in bulk, which means you’ll have enough glove material to last a long time. Depending on glove type, these gloves can be expensive by themselves, but if you buy them in bulk, the glove prices become easily affordable.

If you’re working with gloves that aren’t specifically designed in sheets, make sure they meet all glove requirements before using them with metal sheeting. Gloves made from cloth or suede that don’t exceed certain levels of cut resistance may not be able to provide adequate protection against heavy-duty metals like steel.

When it comes down to it, learn more about glove selection and how it can impact your safety during metalwork to find what will work best for you. In addition to glove material and cut resistance, proper glove fitting is important as well. Make sure gloves fit easily but tightly enough to offer protection from debris without being too loose where they can be easily snagged in equipment.

Quick Tips

heat resistant
  • Gloves that are cut-resistant can help safeguard your hands from cut wounds while working with metal sheeting.
  • Look for gloves made out of materials like leather, Kevlar, or other heavy-duty fabrics to offer the most cut resistance possible.
  • Elastic materials are also great because they provide stretchability so you don’t have any problems with movement across flat surfaces when using them with metalized sheeting.
  • Gloves for metalwork should be cut-resistant and still allow enough flexibility so you can use your fingers effectively instead of just hand protection that hinders your movement.
  • Dexterity requirements will usually vary depending on if the glove is being used in industrial settings or daily life outside of work. Metalworkers need all the cut resistance they can get, but cut-resistant gloves for daily life don’t need to be as cut-resistant since you’re not working with heavy-duty metals.
  • In addition, some jobs will require tighter fitting gloves because of the difficulty in using metalworking tools without full range of motion in your fingers. Once again, cut resistance plays a key role here since it’s important that cut-resistant gloves do not interfere too much with dexterity or movement.

FAQ’s

Which ANSI Cut Level Should I use?

ANSI cut glove ratings follow the letter system, starting with ANSI 3 being the lowest level of glove protection. 

If you’re working with extremely sharp metals that can easily cause cuts to your gloves, you should look for glove types that are made from tough fabrics designed specifically to help protect your hands even when metal sheeting is nearby or being used.

What Glove Type Should I use?

puncture resistance

Gloves are typically divided into three glove categories based on usage:

General-purpose gloves are durable enough for most jobs involving tasks like welding and material handling but aren’t as strong as leather gloves.

Leather gloves are designed specifically to provide maximum flexibility while protecting your hands against common hazards like cuts and punctures. 

Leather gloves often include knuckle protection since metal pieces can cause scrapes if you don’t have the right glove.

Glove liners are thin fabric gloves that provide little protection against punctures and cuts but work well as backup gloves underneath more protective glove types like leather gloves to offer extra grip and control when necessary.

What are the Methods for Testing Cut-Resistant Gloves?

The most common glove test is the ASTM cut level test, which uses a circular blade to test glove resistance by measuring how much force it takes to cut through glove fabrics. A lower number on the glove’s cut level corresponds to higher glove protection levels.

Is it Okay to Handle Metalwork Without gloves?

Always wear gloves when handling metalworks to offer protection against sharp edges and debris. Don’t rely on glove material or glove cut levels alone.

If you’re working with high-quality glove products that are also made from tough fabrics designed for metalworking, wearing gloves can help protect your hands if small pieces of sheet metal are nearby.

What is the Glove Count Method Used for Cutting Testing?

highest cut resistance

The glove count method uses an adjustable blade mechanism to determine glove resistance by measuring how many times the knife must pass through the fabric before it cuts through completely.

This method can give more accurate results than other cut-resistant glove tests, but it requires specialized equipment not used for regular manual knife testing.  

When Handling Metalworks, what PPE Should be Worn?

PPE required when handling metals includes gloves made from tough fabrics like leather, cut-resistant glove materials, safety goggles or glasses without exposed lenses, and clothing meant to help protect your hands against flying debris.

When working with certain types of metals, full face protection may be necessary as well. Metallic sheets can cause severe injuries if they come into contact with the eyes or mouth.

Depending on the type of job you’re doing and your personal preferences, consider wearing a hat that covers your neck to help protect yourself from debris should any become airborne during cutting work.  

Are there Proper Gloves for Handling Most Abrasive Materials?

Yes, glove materials designed for handling abrasive materials like steel wool will typically have a higher cut resistance rating than glove types made from other glove fabrics.

These gloves are often reinforced with tough fabric layers that help protect your hands while being thin enough to offer full dexterity so you can move your hands-free when working.  

When Should Leather Gloves be Worn?

Leather gloves are best used during any activity involving tasks where there’s a high risk of punctures or cuts to your glove material, including metalworking and welding.

Leather glove designs are also great for cold environments since they tend to contribute more insulation than standard glove fabrics do.

If you’re looking for leather glove options, check out our list of the best gloves for metalworking.  

What Glove Cut Levels Should be Used for Welding?

What Glove Cut Levels Should be Used for Welding

When using gloves made from substances that are designed specifically for handling high heat, it’s best to use glove designs with cut levels between 7 and 9, so you still have protection against cuts while also being able to handle hot objects with your hands.

Welding is only one of many jobs where workers are required to handle heated equipment, but this information may extend beyond just welding roles if you’re doing any type of job that requires frequent exposure to extreme heat without the ability to remove gloves or hand protection.  

What Gloves do you Recommend for Hot Work?

As mentioned earlier, glove models designed specifically for handling high heat will typically have higher cut resistance levels than glove types made from other components.

Choosing a glove type and design with a cut level between 7 and 9 is best when performing tasks where there’s a high risk of punctures or cuts to your glove material since they should offer some protection against cuts while also being able to handle hot objects with your hands.  

What Gloves do you Recommend for Cold Work?

If you’re looking for glove options that excel in colder environments, consider choosing glove designs made from sheepskin leathers, fur-lined gloves, or special glove fabrics meant to insulate better than regular glove types.

It’s best to avoid standard leather gloves in cold environments since it is designed for cold weather and typically provides better insulation and should be more comfortable to wear.

This is because it’s designed specifically for handling cold temperatures and will often contain higher levels of insulation while also being designed with gloves that keep the warm air closest to your skin without any extra bulk or material trapping heat inside.

Last Thoughts

In the end, glove selection depends on the work you perform, but glove varieties designed specifically for handling high heat will provide more cut resistance than glove types made from other glove fabrics.

When picking glove types to perform tasks where there’s a high risk of punctures or cuts to your glove material, it’s best to choose glove designs with a cut level between 7 and 9.

If you’re looking for glove options that excel in colder environments, consider choosing glove designs made from sheepskin leathers, fur-lined gloves, or special glove fabrics meant to insulate better than regular glove types.

We hope you enjoyed this article and gained some knowledge on glove selection!

If you want to share your glove experiences, post a comment below or contact us online today.

Best Gloves For Sheet Metal Work in 2024 | Top 10 Picks
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