When selecting the right gloves for your needs, leather is widely favored for its durability, comfort, and versatility. However, not all leather work gloves are the same. You need to consider various factors based on your specific situation, including the type of leather, pattern, thumb design, cuff style, and lining. Here is a guide to help you choose the right leather work gloves.
Choose the Leather Material
There are several types of leather used for gloves, including:
- Cowhide: Highly durable and abrasion-resistant, ideal for heavy-duty work like construction or welding.
- Pigskin: Softer, more flexible, and very durable, offering great dexterity.
- Deerskin: Lightweight, breathable, and highly resistant to water and oil, perfect for outdoor activities like hunting or fishing.
- Goatskin: Thinner and lighter with high flexibility and abrasion resistance, suitable for precision tasks like mechanical or assembly work.
Choose the Pattern
The style of work gloves refers to how the leather pieces are sewn together. The three most common patterns are:
- Gunn Cut: Aligns the edges of two leather pieces and sews them together directly, suitable for smooth-surfaced leather products like clothing and gloves.
- Keystone Thumb: Sewn along the edge of the leather to prevent fraying, used for finishing the edges of leather garments and accessories.
- Welted Seam: Uses two needles to sew from both sides simultaneously, resulting in tight and symmetrical stitches, ideal for high-strength and symmetrical leather products.
Choose the Thumb Design
Thumb design refers to the shape and style of the thumb in the glove. Common types include:
- Straight Thumb: Simple and straight, a good choice for general gloves.
- Winged Thumb: Features a curved design, providing greater flexibility and range of motion.
- Gunn Thumb: Unique shape, allowing for more natural movement and reducing hand fatigue.
Choose the Lining
The lining refers to the material inside the gloves for insulation and moisture control. Common types are:
- Cotton and Knit Linings: Lightweight and breathable, suitable for warm weather.
- Wool Linings: Warm and comfortable, ideal for cold weather.
Common Industries Using Leather Work Gloves
Leather work gloves are popular in many industries, including:
- Construction: Protects hands from rough materials, sharp edges, and power tools.
- Welding: Shields hands from high temperatures and sparks.
- Gardening: Protects hands from thorns, dirt, and chemicals.
- Landscaping: Used to handle heavy equipment, sharp objects, and abrasive materials.
- Farming: Protects hands when handling rough materials like hay bales.
6.5 Ways to Care for and Maintain Leather Work Gloves
- Regular Cleaning: Stains and chemicals can damage leather over time. Regular cleaning is essential. First, gently wipe the gloves’ surface with a clean, soft cloth or sponge to remove dust and dirt. Then, use a mild soap or leather cleaner diluted in warm water to gently wipe the gloves’ surface. Turn the gloves inside out and wipe the lining with a damp cloth, especially in areas prone to sweat. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.
- Leather Conditioning: Over time, leather gloves can become dry and stiff. Use leather conditioner or cream as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a small amount on a soft cloth and evenly rub it into the glove’s surface, massaging the leather to allow the conditioner to penetrate. Wipe off any excess conditioner with a soft cloth.
- Proper Storage: Store leather work gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in damp areas or airtight containers.
- Avoid Water Damage: Leather work gloves can be damaged by water. Avoid wearing them in wet environments or use waterproof covers. If gloves get wet, let them air dry naturally.
- Regular Inspection: Inspect your gloves for signs of wear, such as holes, tears, or loose stitching. Replace gloves if they are damaged to ensure they provide adequate protection for your hands.
Choosing the right leather gloves is crucial for both your safety and comfort. Consider factors like leather type, pattern, thumb design, cuff style, and lining to find the gloves that best suit your needs.
How to Measure Glove Sizes – Source: AIBON
Latex gloves– Source: AIBON
Safety gloves– Source: AIBON
Working gloves– Source: AIBON
FAQ
Can leather work gloves be machine-washed?
It is not recommended to machine wash leather work gloves as it can damage the leather. Clean them by hand using a mild soap solution and a damp cloth.
How often should I clean and maintain my leather work gloves?
It is advisable to clean and maintain leather work gloves after each use to keep them in optimal condition. Generally, it would be best if you conditioned them every 1-3 months.
Can leather gloves be used for welding?
Yes, leather work gloves can be used for welding as they can withstand high temperatures and flames. However, it is best to use gloves specifically designed for welding as they offer additional features like reinforced palms and extended cuffs.
Can I wear leather work gloves in cold weather?
Yes, leather gloves can protect against cold weather to some extent. Opt for gloves with wool or insulated linings to enhance warmth.
How do I know when to replace my leather work gloves?
Replace your leather work gloves when they show signs of damage or wear, such as holes, or tears, or when they no longer provide adequate protection for your hands.