Understanding Glove Gauge and Mechanical Protection

When it comes to mechanical protection, customers need different levels of cut, abrasion, thermal protection, and other performance based on their industry or specific tasks. The level of protection depends on the materials used, as discussed in various ASK GIA blogs. Mechanical protection gloves are often made from synthetic yarns or leather, skillfully knitted or sewn together to enhance durability and performance. Yarn-knitted (also a lining or liner) gloves are typically categorized by their liner gauge.

Here, the gauge refers to the number of stitches per inch (horizontal) on a knitted lining. This gauge is given to match the horizontal knitting of the liner knitting machine and its needles per inch in length. Glove liners (also here called gloves) are typically produced in gauges of 7, 10, 13, 15, 18, & 21. A higher gauge number means the glove is thinner, using thinner yarn to create more stitches per inch. Conversely, a lower gauge means the glove is thicker, using thicker yarn to get fewer stitches per inch. Thicker gauge gloves are generally better for thermal protection with conventional fibers, while thinner gauge gloves provide enhanced dexterity and tactile sensitivity. Gauge levels can determine if it is ‘heavyweight’ (lower gauge) or ‘lightweight’ (higher gauge), depending on the product at the end.

• Lower gauge gloves (7 gauge), also known as heavyweight gloves, are thicker and ideal for handling glass or sheet metal. Depending on the materials used, they offer superior durability, heavy-duty cut protection, and thermal resistance.
• Medium-weight gloves (10 gauge) balance protection and agility, making them suitable for tasks requiring moderate cut, abrasion, or thermal protection.
• Lightweight gloves (13, 15, 18, & 21 gauge) are thinner and designed for tasks that demand high skill and precision with the addition of cumulated protection performance, such as small parts handling or assembly work with hidden mechanical hazards.

Longevity is an important factor for customers to consider when choosing gloves. Lower gauge gloves, with composited performing yarns, will last longer and better withstand demanding working conditions. SW offers a range of mechanical gloves tailored for different tasks.

TotalForm gloves are 18-gauge, designed for general mechanical work where high dexterity is crucial with a sense of environmental concern.

The KarbonHex series includes gloves in 10, 15, and 18 gauges, providing a broader selection to meet varying needs on work conditions, tasks, and performance requirements.

GraphEx gloves provide 13—and 18-gauge options with well-pitched protection performance. They incorporate SW’s proprietary AxiFybr® technology, which uses high-performance metallic alloy yarns twisted with modified HPPE yarns. The axially aligned yarns are tightly knitted, forming a flexible yet long-lasting protective shield that guards against cuts and abrasions. AxiFybr technology offers 48% greater strength compared to conventional cut-resistant yarns.

SW prioritizes customer comfort by producing gloves that combine exceptional protection with enhanced dexterity and tactility.

About SW Sustainability Solutions

At SW, we are committed to leading the glove industry in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Our innovative EcoTek® technology exemplifies our dedication to sustainable solutions, while our expertise in sweat management ensures comfort and performance. We also offer specialized chemical compatibility support, assisting customers in selecting gloves tailored to their unique needs. Our mission is to provide products that prioritize safety, health, and environmental responsibility for our customers and the planet.