Glossary

Glossary of the types of leather

Leather is a primary choice for protective gloves and clothing. Naturally resistant to heat and flame, it offers great abrasion and puncture resistance. Due to its thermostatic properties, it also brings thermal insulation. Breathable, leather adjusts to the hand with time for increased comfort.

Characteristics of the types of leather:

Cowhide leather: Less expensive, it offers comfort, durability, good abrasion and heat resistance.

Deer skin leather: Naturally heat resistant, soft and supple, it allows excellent dexterity.

Sheep skin leather: Less resistant, it is used where optimum dexterity and touch sensitivity are needed.

Moose skin leather: Thicker than deer skin, moose skin is chosen for its durability.

Grain vs split leather: Grain leather comes from the smooth external side of the hide. It provides durability, dexterity and oil and water repellency. On the other hand, split leather is the roughest internal side of the hide. Economic, it is chosen for its durability.

A few work gloves models

Clute cut:  Designed for a roomy, comfortable fit with no seam on the palm side of the glove. Mostly used for cotton and leather work gloves. (see sketch)

Driver style (or Roper style): Similar to clute style, although it has no cuff. It is generally tightened on the back either with an elastic or adjustable strap with snap fastener.

Cuff: Material extending beyond the palm of the hand to give extra protection of the wrist, forearm, etc.

Gunn cut: With no seams on the back, the palm side of the middle two fingers is a separate part of the glove pattern and is sewn to the palm at the base of those particular fingers. In full leather and leather palm styles, this seam is reinforced with a welt that gives additional resistance to wear in this critical area. Gunn cut allows flexibility and durability. (see sketch)

One finger mitt: Glove with the index finger and thumb in separate compartments; the rest is combined. Sometimes referred to as three finger glove.

One piece back: Seamless one piece back prevents exposure to sparks and fire. Used mainly for welder’s gloves and mitts.

Some other definitions

Kevlar®: Trademark (Dupont) used for a synthetic aramid fiber. Very resistant, it is used to design protective garments for workers exposed to a variety of cut, abrasion and high heat hazards. Combining light weight, comfort and strength, kevlar® meets the protection requirements of a diverse group of industries.

Aluminized Kevlar®: Provides increased protection against high radiant heat.

Neoprene: Synthetic, rubber-like material that is chemically and electrically inert. The material can resist rain and wet conditions and it also provides good protection against exposure to chemicals.

Fibreglass: Good alternative to asbestos, Zetex® not only resists high temperature (more than 350°C), fire and sparks, but can also withstand cold temperature.