5 Steps to Choosing a Leather Work Glove
Grain or split leather? Clute or Gunn cut? Safety or gauntlet cuff? Lined or unlined?
The wide variety of choices in leather work gloves means that there is almost always “the perfect” one for any given application. Finding that glove, however, may not always seem so easy. By understanding the differences between available features, you can narrow the playing field and make an educated decision.
Choose a Type of Leather
Leather is made from the tanned hides of various animals. Leather quality varies because it is a natural product.
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.
Step Two: Choose a Pattern
A single-piece, seamless back with fine seams set away from the working area of the palm. The two middle fingers are sewn separately into the palm to help minimize bulk in those fingers, increasing dexterity. This design provides better wear and greater comfort. The design also minimizes stress on the glove for longer wear and provides natural gripping action for handling tools.
Step Three: Choose a Thumb Design Step Four: Choose a Cuff Style
Wing Thumb & Safety Cuff
Designed with an angled construction that allows for greater flexibility and efficiency than straight thumbs. Good for pushing and pulling applications, often found on mid-priced gloves and can be worn for extended periods of time.
The Cuff is about 2″ long, allowing covering for the wrist. Designed with a slit at the side to enable the wearer to throw the gloves off easily if they get caught.
