Glove technology has come a long way over the years with new innovations emerging every year within the industry. Millions and millions of dollars have been spent in research and development from most major manufacturers trying to get the edge over the competition.
With glove liner technology constantly evolving and the advanced science that goes into creating a new type of glove dip, there is one thing that some workers can’t look past…. the pure natural feel and robustness of a high quality leather work glove!
From car seats to lounge suites, jackets, belts, wallets and shoes, leather is seen as a deluxe, high quality material that not only looks good, but feels good too… and not to mention the ‘fresh leather’ scent! So chances are, if you like any of these leather products, you’re going to love a pair of leather work gloves!
The Work Glove OG.
Early hunters would try and utilise every part of an animal to reduce wastage and increase survival. Other than the food, the hide was a key material that was salvaged, it provided many uses such as clothing, shoes, tents , blankets etc. When a couple of hand shapes were cut out and sewn together, the leather glove was born and would later become very popular.
Leather gloves have been around for thousands of years and have been the work glove of choice from the medieval ages, through the industrial revolution, right up until today, where they are still used to this day.
Excellent protection
Leather has natural characteristics that make it an excellent choice of work glove.
Outstanding abrasion resistance – If we look at a motorcyclist and what they wear when they ride…Leather pants, leather vest and of course…Leather gloves. This is a preventative measure, so if they fall off while riding, that abrasion resistance of the leather will protect them from some serious road rash. It’s the organic makeup of the leather and how it binds together that creates a strong and protective layer that no synthetic material has been able to match.
Natural flame resistance – Have you ever seen a person welding without leather gloves on? If you have, they must be crazy! The flame resistance in leather, especially suede leather, means that it makes a great material for those working around sparks and flames. It also is the preferred material for electricians as it can protect from arc flash and flash fire. (Don’t try this at home) If you were to hold a flame to your leather gloves, the would shrivel and curl, but wouldn’t catch alight.
The Feel…
At the end of the day, If you’ve been using leather gloves your whole life, no matter what new gloves are being invented, nothing is going to quite cut the mustard like getting a brand new pair of leather gloves, smelling that fresh leather smell and breaking them in to perfectly fit your hands over the next couple of weeks. They become the exact shape of your palm and there is no other glove that exists in the world that will fit as good as they do.
