The short answer
Measure around your palm at the knuckles, leaving out the thumb. Divide the result in centimetres by 2.54 and round to the nearest whole number. A 21 cm circumference gives size 8, 24 cm gives size 9.
How to measure
- Put a tape measure around the palm of your working hand, level with the knuckles.
- Leave the thumb out, it is not measured.
- Keep the hand flat and relaxed, neither spread nor clenched.
- Measure both hands. Most people have a slightly larger working hand, and that one decides.
From circumference to size
The size number is the circumference in inches, and one inch is 2.54 centimetres. If you fall between two sizes, take the smaller one for assembly and precision work, the larger one for winter and heat gloves.
| Size | Hand circumference | Typical hand |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 15 to 16 cm | very narrow |
| 7 | 17 to 18 cm | narrow |
| 8 | 19 to 20 cm | medium |
| 9 | 21 to 23 cm | strong |
| 10 | 24 to 25 cm | large |
| 11 | 26 to 27 cm | very large |
Why the wrong size is dangerous
A glove that is too large sits loose, slips when gripping and can catch in rotating parts. Touch is lost, and someone who feels nothing grips harder than necessary. A glove that is too tight presses on the blood vessels, the hand tires faster, and after two hours the wearer takes it off. Either way the protection stops working.
Ordering for a whole workforce
For a mixed workforce, plan the bulk in sizes 9 and 10, plus one pack each of 8 and 11. Measuring once is more precise: we put together free test samples in several sizes so people can try them on before the first large order.
Frequently asked
- Does the size table apply to all manufacturers?
- The link between hand circumference and size number is set out in EN 420 and therefore applies across manufacturers. Cut and fit still differ: a cut-resistant glove with a thick liner fits more tightly in the same size than a thin assembly glove.
- What do I do with an in-between size?
- For assembly and fine work take the smaller size to keep the sense of touch. For winter, heat and cut protection take the larger one, where the material adds bulk.
- Can I mix sizes?
- Yes. Each size is its own line, and one order can combine several sizes of the same model. Each size is sold in full packs.
- Can I get samples to try on?
- Yes, free of charge. Call or write a short note saying which models and sizes you need.
Not sure about the size?
We put together free test samples so you can try before the first order. One call is enough.
Christoph Scabell
Safety equipment sales, ES Handels- und Servicegesellschaft
Not sure this model fits? Give us a call, test samples are free of charge.