How to Choose the Right Leather Work Gloves

You should also pay attention to what part of the animal’s body the hide comes from and what side of the skin is processed.

Full or 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.

Step Two: Choose a Pattern

The way a glove is cut helps determine the dexterity and comfort you’ll receive.

Are Leather Gloves Warm & Good for Winter Cold Weather? [Discussed] – Work Wear Command

As the temperatures start to drop, you’d naturally be looking for the warmest apparel to keep you feeling comfortable. Winter gloves will keep your hands warm, repel moisture, and improve your grip, but choosing the right material is key. What about leather? Are leather gloves warm?

Leather gloves, on their own, generally provide medium warmth and can handle moderate winter conditions. For more severe conditions, you’ll want to buy leather gloves that have a lining for extra insulation, or choose a material that is better suited for severe cold. To see the warmest lining materials for leather gloves, click here.

Another advantage leather has for winter conditions is most leather gloves are water-resistant. Leather is especially useful for workers who need durable gloves. Again, for colder conditions, a leather glove that also has a lining for extra insulation will be best.

In this article let’s take a closer look at why leather gloves make sense for winter conditions. Let’s discuss the strengths of leather gloves, but also discuss some alternatives that might make more sense for extreme conditions.

How Warm Are Leather Gloves?

As we discussed earlier, leather gloves are warm and durable, but if you will be spending extended time in extreme conditions, there will be warmer options.

Some types of leather are more expensive than others because of their rarity or the complexity of their cultivation and manufacturing process. The warmth can vary (slightly) depending on which type of leather you choose (warmth of suede gloves).

Cowhide and buffalo hide gloves are often considered to be warmer than other types of leather. They’re often more durable and puncture-resistant.

Are Faux Leather Gloves Warm?

In general, faux leather gloves usually are not warmer than real leather gloves. There can be exceptions, however, depending on the type of lining used.

Another drawback to faux leather is it is not as durable as real leather, which can be especially problematic if you will be using your leather gloves as work gloves. But faux leather is much cheaper, and does not require animal skin.

Best Lining For Leather Gloves

Synthetic 

There are several types of synthetic lining materials that are often the warmest linings you can buy. Synthetic insulation is popular because it is non-bulky, but still very good at trapping heat.

A popular type of synthetic insulation used in gloves (and other types of winter clothes) is 3M Thinsulate. If you need leather gloves for extreme cold, finding a pair of leather gloves that have 3M Thinsulate lining is a great option. 

Merino Wool

Some leather gloves have merino wool lining to improve their warmth level. The problem with regular wool is it can be a bit bulky (and itchy). That’s where merino wool comes in. Merino wool is much thinner than regular wool, so it can be used as a lining material and not affect the fit of the glove.

And even though merino wool is thinner than regular wool, it is still very good at trapping heat. It is also good at wicking away sweat.  

Silk

Silk feels smooth and comfy, so it can be worn for long hours. This fast-drying material will suit you as a lining material if leather feels scratchy or tough. It’s also thermal-regulating, so it will keep your hands warm in winter, although it’s not warmer than wool. 

This material is breathable and wicks moisture, but it’s incredibly delicate. You might accidentally tear the lining while wearing or taking off your gloves. 

Cotton

Cotton is a natural fiber that provides some warmth, although it’s not as warm as wool or synthetic insulation. Cotton lining material is breathable and won’t irritate your skin when you wear your gloves for long hours.

However, cotton doesn’t dry fast and if you have sweaty hands, the moisture will irritate you. Cotton lining is not the best choice.

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