1. What is TPR?

TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) is a specialized material that combines the processing advantages of plastic with the soft, elastic properties of rubber. It is lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant. We mold this material into “armor” that is stitched or sonic-welded onto the back of the glove to absorb and disperse energy from impacts.

2. The ANSI/ISEA 138 Impact Standard

Impact protection is no longer a guessing game. The ANSI/ISEA 138 standard rates gloves on three levels based on the “Peak Transmitted Force” (how much force hits your hand).

Level 3: High impact hazards (demolition, breaching, oil & gas).

Level 1: Low impact hazards (general construction).

Level 2: Medium impact hazards (heavy equipment).

3. Design for Dexterity: Segmented Protection

A solid block of rubber on your hand would prevent you from holding a weapon or tool. We solve this by using Segmented TPR. We design “flex grooves” into the impact guards that align perfectly with the human knuckle joints. This ensures that when you make a fist, the armor moves with you, not against you.

4. Manufacturing Methods: Sonic Welding vs. Stitching

As an OEM manufacturer, we offer different application methods.

Sonic Welding: A seamless, modern look where the TPR is fused directly to the fabric, reducing weight and snag points.

Stitching: The classic method, offering extreme durability for heavy-duty use.

5. Custom Branding in the Mold

One of the biggest advantages for our B2B clients is Custom Molded TPR. We can create a custom steel mold for the knuckle guard that features your logo or brand name directly inside the rubber armor. This provides a permanent, 3D branding effect that cannot be washed off or worn away.

The post Understanding Impact Protection: Why TPR Matters in Combat Gear first appeared on TraCombat®.

1. Understanding EN 388 (The European Standard)

EN 388 is the standard used primarily in Europe, Asia, and South America. You will often see a shield icon with 4 numbers and 2 letters under it (e.g., 4X43FP).

• Abrasion Resistance (1-4): How many cycles of sandpaper the glove can withstand.

• Cut Resistance (Coupe Test) (1-5): Protection against slicing.

• Tear Resistance (1-4): Force required to rip the material.

• Puncture Resistance (1-4): Protection against a pointed object.

• ISO Cut Resistance (A-F): A newer, more accurate cut test for high-level protection.

2. Understanding ANSI/ISEA 105 (The US Standard)

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) uses a more granular scale for cut resistance, which is preferred for high-risk environments.

A7-A9: Extreme protection (heavy industrial risks).

Cut Levels A1 – A9:

A1-A3: Light protection (general material handling).

A4-A6: Medium/High protection (glass handling, sharp metal).

3. Which Standard Should You Choose?

If you are bidding on a US Government tender, ANSI is usually the requirement. For global exports to Europe or the Middle East, EN 388 is the standard.

4. TraCombat’s Manufacturing Guarantee

At TraCombat Industries, we design gloves to meet your specific safety requirements. We can manufacture gloves that achieve ANSI A9 for extreme risks or cost-effective EN 388 Level 3 gloves for general duty. We provide full lab testing reports for our B2B partners.

The post The Ultimate Guide to ANSI vs. EN 388 Safety Ratings first appeared on TraCombat®.