Glove Size Chart

What it is

EN ISO 21420 (which replaced EN 420) sets general requirements for protective gloves, including a hand-size system. Glove sizes are numbered by hand circumference in inches: a size 9 glove fits a hand about 9 in around. The standard pairs each size with a hand length and sets a minimum glove length. Letter sizes (S, M, L) are not defined by the standard, and suppliers pair them with numbers in slightly different ways.

How to use it

1. Measure hand circumference around the palm just below the knuckles, thumb excluded, on the dominant hand.
2. Measure hand length from the wrist crease to the tip of the middle finger.
3. Find the row for the circumference. If length points to a different row, try the larger size first.
4. Check the maker's own chart for letter sizes and cut style.

Size chart

Key points

• A glove that is too big snags, reduces grip and can be pulled into rotating equipment.
• A glove that is too small tires the hand, splits at the seams and gets removed.
• Coated and knit gloves stretch; heavy leather and chemical gloves do not. Size up when a liner is worn underneath.
• Disposable gloves often use letter sizes only. Use the maker's chart.
• Letter pairings vary. Some brands call a size 9 "L" and others "XL".

Common mistakes

• Measuring around the knuckles with the thumb included.
• Ordering a whole crew in size L.
• Ignoring hand length for workers with long fingers and narrow palms.
• Assuming a size printed on one brand fits the same in another.

Governing standards: EN ISO 21420.

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.