Food Processing Glove Sizing Guide
Posted by MEFE on 8th Sep 2025
Proper food processing glove sizing prevents injuries, ensures compliance, and maintains productivity. Wrong-sized gloves cause contamination risks, reduced dexterity, and safety hazards in food processing environments.
How to Measure Your Hand Size for Food Processing Gloves
Required Tools
- Fabric measuring tape
- Pen and paper
- Flat surface
Step-by-Step Measurement Process
Step 1: Hand Length (A)
- Place hand flat on surface
- Measure from base of palm to tip of middle finger
- Record measurement in centimeters
Step 2: Palm Width (B)
- Measure across widest part of palm
- Exclude thumb from measurement
- Record measurement in centimeters
Step 3: Size Selection
- Compare both measurements to size charts below
- Choose size that accommodates both measurements
- When between sizes, all MEFE Chainmesh gloves are supplied with a free glove tightener to help secure gloves that may be slightly loose.
For full wash-down or water-resistant setups, we recommend replacing the glove tightener with a Nitrile Disposable glove worn over the chain mesh.
This creates a hygienic seal and enables easy sanitisation during clean-downs — ideal for boning rooms, food prep zones, and HACCP-compliant workflows
MEFE Stainless Steel Chain Mesh Glove Size Chart

Sizing Guidelines by Product Type
Stainless Steel Chain Mesh - Full Hand
Key Sizing Requirements:
- Use measurements A and B from charts above
- Color-coded straps indicate size for easy identification
- Non-stretch stainless steel material - accurate sizing critical
Available Variants:
- Tiger Spring fastening system
- Panther Strap design
- Lion Claw configuration
Fit Check:
- ✅ Fingers move freely without restriction
- ✅ Palm coverage without gaps
- ✅ Wrist strap adjusts comfortably
Ultra Soft Cut Resistant Gloves
Key Features:
- FoodFlex material for enhanced comfort
- 5 color options available
- Superior dexterity for precision tasks
Sizing Considerations:
- Softer material allows slight stretch
- Focus on palm width for proper fit
- Ideal for extended wear applications
Stainless Steel Chain Mesh - Full Hand + 20cm Cuff
Additional Measurements Needed:
- Forearm circumference (15cm above wrist)
- Forearm length from wrist to elbow
Sizing Considerations:
- Cuff must not restrict blood flow
- Allow for clothing underneath
- Ensure full coverage during arm extension
Stainless Steel Chain Mesh - Full Arm with Harness
Complete Measurement Requirements:
- Hand size (standard method)
- Forearm circumference
- Upper arm circumference
- Shoulder width for harness fit
Critical Fit Points:
- Weight distribution across shoulders
- Unrestricted arm movement
- Secure harness without pressure points
Cotton Hypoallergenic Under-Gloves
Sizing Rule: Order one size smaller than your chain mesh gloves
Purpose:
- Moisture absorption
- Comfort enhancement
- Skin protection
- Hygienic barrier
Fit Requirements:
- Snug but not tight
- No bunching under outer gloves
- Easy donning and removal
Glove Tighteners and Straps
Standard Tighteners:
- One size fits most wrists (15-25cm circumference)
- Adjustable tension system
- Compatible with all chain mesh models
Metal Detectable Tighteners:
- Same sizing as standard
- Food safety compliance
- Enhanced contamination prevention
Replacement Straps:
- Match original glove model specifications
- Available for all chain mesh variants
- Easy field replacement
Nitrile Glove Seal (Wash-Down Alternative):
- For full wash-down or water-resistant setups, a Nitrile Disposable glove can be worn over the chain mesh glove in place of a strap or tightener
- Creates a hygienic seal for sanitisation and wet work
- Ideal for boning rooms, seafood processing, and HACCP-compliant workflow
Common Food Processing Glove Sizing Mistakes
Mistake 1: Too Tight
Problem: Reduced dexterity, hand fatigue, restricted blood flow
Solution: Size up and ensure 25mm fingertip clearance
Mistake 2: Too Loose
Problem: Contamination risk, reduced grip, safety hazards
Solution: Use glove tighteners or size down appropriately
Mistake 3: Ignoring Task Requirements
Problem: Wrong protection level for specific tasks
Solution: Match glove type and size to specific food processing activities
Mistake 4: Skipping Under-Gloves
Problem: Discomfort during extended wear
Solution: Add cotton hypoallergenic liners sized one size smaller
Quick Sizing Reference for Food Processing Tasks
|
Task Type |
Recommended Products |
Outcome |
|
General food prep |
Cut-resistant glove + nitrile overglove |
Dexterity for handling + hygienic moisture seal |
|
Meat cutting/deboning |
Cotton liner + chain mesh glove + glove tightener /nitrile overglove |
Cut protection + secure fit |
|
Heavy butchery |
Nitrile + cotton liner + full arm with harness (+ nitrile overglove) |
Maximum protection + weight distribution (+ liquid barrier) |
|
Extended shifts / Wet Environments |
Nitrile + cotton liner + chain mesh glove + nitrile glove overglove |
Comfort + secure fit + liquid protection |
Professional Fitting Tips
Before Purchasing:
- Measure both hands (use larger measurement)
- Consider typical work shift length
- Account for seasonal hand swelling
- Test with cotton liners if planning to use them
During Use:
- Check fit at start of each shift
- Adjust tighteners as needed
- Monitor for pressure points or restricted movement
- Replace when sizing becomes compromised
Signs of Proper Fit:
- Natural hand movement without restriction
- Secure positioning during work tasks
- Comfortable wear for full shift duration
- Adequate protection coverage for all exposed areas
Proper food processing glove sizing ensures worker safety, maintains food hygiene standards, and supports operational efficiency. For specific sizing consultation or product recommendations based on your facility's requirements, contact MEFE's protective equipment specialists.