Forester Class 5 Cut Resistant PU Coated Work Glove ANSI A5 EN388
The Forester Class 5 Cut Resistant PU Coated Work Glove delivers lightweight, comfortable hand protection for arborists and tradespeople who need high-performance cut resistance without sacrificing dexterity. The High-Performance Polyethylene (HPPE) and nylon outer shell meets ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 Cut Level A5 and BS EN 388:2016 standards. A PU (polyurethane) palm coating provides grip and tactile sensitivity for precise tool handling. Available in Small, Medium, Large, and XL.
EN 388:2016 Performance Ratings
- Abrasion: Level 4
- Cut: Level 5
- Tear: Level 4
- Puncture: Level 2
Key Features
- ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 Cut Level A5 — High-level cut protection rated to the current US PPE standard
- EN 388:2016 Compliant — Meets the European mechanical risk PPE standard (Abrasion 4 / Cut 5 / Tear 4 / Puncture 2)
- HPPE & Nylon Shell — High-Performance Polyethylene and nylon construction for strength, cut resistance, and lightweight wear
- PU Palm Coating — Polyurethane coating provides grip and tactile sensitivity for confident tool handling
- Lightweight and Comfortable — Designed for extended wear without fatigue
Specifications
- Brand: Forester
- Shell Material: High-Performance Polyethylene (HPPE) & Nylon
- Coating: PU (Polyurethane) palm
- Cut Resistance: ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 Cut Level A5; EN 388:2016 Cut Level 5
- EN 388 Ratings: Abrasion 4 / Cut 5 / Tear 4 / Puncture 2
- Available Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, XL
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Cut Level A5 (ANSI) / Cut Level 5 (EN 388) mean?
Cut Level A5 under ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 indicates the glove has been tested and verified to resist a defined level of cutting force — the A-scale ranges from A1 (lowest) to A9 (highest), so A5 represents a high level of cut protection suitable for work with chainsaw chips, sharp branches, rigging hardware, and similar hazards. EN 388:2016 Cut Level 5 is the equivalent European performance rating. Neither rating certifies the glove for direct chainsaw contact — for saw chain contact, a dedicated chainsaw protective glove (EN 381-7 / ASTM F1414) is required.
What is HPPE and why is it used in cut-resistant gloves?
High-Performance Polyethylene (HPPE) is a synthetic fiber with a very high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent cut resistance. It is commonly blended with nylon or other fibers in cut-resistant glove shells to achieve high ANSI/EN cut ratings while keeping the glove lightweight and flexible. HPPE fibers do not conduct heat, which also makes them comfortable for extended wear.
Are these gloves suitable for chainsaw operation?
No — these gloves are not rated for chainsaw operation. They provide cut resistance against sharp edges, branches, and rigging hardware, but are not certified to EN 381-7 or equivalent chainsaw protective standards. For chainsaw use, dedicated chainsaw-rated gloves with cut-proof protective material are required.
How do I choose the right size?
Measure around the widest part of your hand (excluding the thumb) in inches. As a general guide: Small fits approximately 7–8", Medium fits 8–9", Large fits 9–10", and XL fits 10–11". If you are between sizes, size up for a more comfortable fit with gloves worn over extended periods.