LEATHER - The Glove Specialist!

Leather gloves are the most traditional and popular type of work glove. A quality pair of leather gloves can last many years with proper care. Leather, depending on its thickness, can be highly resistant to cuts, abrasions and punctures. It is comfortable, conforms to the shape of the hand and allows for freedom of movement. It also offers protection from the elements and even a slight degree of chemical resistance.

Leather is made from the tanned hides of various animals. Leather quality varies because it is a natural product. The most common types of leather used for work gloves are:

Cowhide is the most common and popular type of leather used for gloves. It creates a moderately priced, comfortable, durable glove with excellent abrasion resistance. It is warmer than pig or goatskin and more heat resistant.
Pigskin offers the greatest breathability due to the porous texture of the hide. It becomes softer with use and withstands moisture without becoming stiff. And the material can be laundered without losing its shape or function.
Deerskin is popular in the industry of leather gloves. It is famous for its soft and pliable characteristics. It is strong and naturally abrasion-resistant. However, after prolonged wear, grim and dirt can seep into your gloves. Your hand’s natural oil will also propagate across the surface of the gloves.
Goatskin is the strongest and most durable type of leather. Its natural lanolin in the skin makes the glove very supple, waterproof and abrasion resistant. The material is excellent for tasks involving fine dexterity.

What part of the animal’s body the hide comes from and what side of the skin is processed shall be pay more attention.

Top grain leather comes from the external side of the hide. It is typically smooth, but can be lightly sanded or processed after tanning to feel like suede or velvet. The area where the hide is cut determines durability:

Leather cut from the sides and shoulder of the animal offers the greatest durability.
Belly and neck cuts are less durable and are often used for “economy grade” gloves and trims.

Split leather or suede comes from the underside of the hide. This leather has no natural grain and is not as strong as grain leather. The area from which the glove is cut determines durability and dexterity:

Belly split leather is the most economical, but it is not consistent in texture or appearance. It is the least durable.
Shoulder split leather is economical, but less durable than side split leather because the additional movement in the shoulder area creates less dense fibers and more visible differences in texture.
Side split comes from the rib area. It is very durable and consistent with dense fibers. Of split leathers, this is the best quality.

For greatest longevity, choose grain leather gloves. For temporary workers or sporadic, incidental jobs, split leathers will likely “do the job” and offer a greater cost savings.