Mechanics Gloves
Mechanics gloves built for automotive and maintenance work, with synthetic leather palms for grip on tools and TPR armor across the knuckles. Touchscreen fingertips on most models. Machine washable. Choose an impact-rated version where the hazard is a slipping wrench rather than a sharp edge.
For heavier knuckle exposure, the full range of TPR impact gloves is rated to ANSI/ISEA 138.
Around rig floors and heavy plant, the sandy nitrile TPR impact glove adds grip in oil.
For rigging and material handling without the armor, see leather gloves.
Hi-Vis TPR Impact Resistant Cut A4 Work Gloves — GE PPE GG422, Impact Resistant
What makes a glove a mechanics glove
Three things. A synthetic leather palm that grips a tool without bunching, a flexible back that lets the hand close naturally around a socket, and TPR armor over the knuckles and fingers.
That armor is the defining feature. Mechanical work injures the back of the hand far more often than the palm. The palm is on the tool. The knuckles are what hits the engine bay when a fastener lets go.
TPR armor and the ANSI 138 rating
Thermoplastic rubber is moulded onto the back of the glove in segments so the hand still closes. Not all TPR is rated, and the difference matters.
ANSI/ISEA 138 tests back-of-hand impact and grades it 1 to 3. Level 1 is light protection, Level 3 is the highest. Decorative TPR with no rating looks similar and is tested for nothing.
For general workshop use, unrated or Level 1 armor is usually fine. For oil and gas, pipeline, mining and heavy rigging, specify a rated Level 2 or 3 glove and check the marking on the cuff.
Impact is not cut
These are separate ratings for separate hazards. A glove can carry ANSI 138 impact protection and offer almost no cut resistance, or the reverse.
Does your crew handle sharp sheet metal, glass or blades alongside the mechanical work? Look for a glove carrying both an ANSI/ISEA 105 cut level and an ANSI 138 impact level. Otherwise the armor protects the knuckles while the palm stays exposed to the cut hazard.
Features that decide whether they get worn
Touchscreen fingertips matter here more than in most categories, because diagnostic tablets and phones are part of the job now.
Machine washable construction extends life considerably in a shop where gloves get oily within a week. Check the care instructions, because some TPR moulding does not survive a hot wash.
Buying for a workshop
Two SKUs cover most operations. A standard mechanics glove for general work, and an impact-rated version for anyone breaking fasteners or working under load. Order both by the case and expect the standard glove to turn over faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ANSI 138 mean on a glove?
It rates back-of-hand impact protection from Level 1 to Level 3. Unrated TPR armor may look similar but has not been tested to any standard.
Are mechanics gloves cut resistant?
Not unless they also carry an ANSI/ISEA 105 cut level. Impact and cut are separate ratings. Look for both on the cuff if the job has a sharp edge hazard.
Can mechanics gloves be washed?
Most can. Check the care instructions first, because a hot wash can damage some TPR moulding.
Do I need impact rated gloves?
Specify them where a slipping tool or shifting load can strike the back of the hand, which covers most oil and gas, pipeline, mining and heavy rigging work.
Do you sell mechanics gloves in bulk?
Yes. Case pricing with volume breaks across the size range, plus single pairs.