What type of leather is used for gloves?
There are many types of
leather used for making gloves, and the choice often depends on what the gloves are for. One common type is real leather, which comes from animals. Cowhide is a popular real leather for gloves. It is strong and durable, so it works well for gloves that need to last, like work gloves or heavy-duty gloves. Cowhide is not too soft, but it can stand up to a lot of use, which is good for people who use gloves every day for tough jobs.
Sheepskin is another real leather used for gloves. It is much softer and lighter than cowhide. This makes it great for gloves that need to be comfortable, like winter gloves or dress gloves. Sheepskin also keeps hands warm, so it is a favorite for cold weather. Many people like sheepskin gloves because they feel nice against the skin and are flexible, making it easy to move your fingers.
Pigskin is also used for gloves. It has a unique texture with small pores, which makes it breathable. Breathable gloves are good for when your hands might get sweaty, like gardening gloves or some work gloves. Pigskin is not as tough as cowhide, but it is more flexible, so it fits the hand well. It is also usually less expensive than cowhide or sheepskin, which makes it a budget-friendly choice.
Then there are artificial leathers, which are man-made.
PU leather is a common artificial leather for gloves. It is made from polyurethane, and it can look and feel like real leather. PU leather is often used for fashion gloves or gloves that need to be water-resistant. It is easier to clean than real leather—you can just wipe it with a damp cloth. This makes it good for gloves that might get dirty often.
PVC leather is another type of artificial leather. It is strong and waterproof, but it is not as breathable as PU leather or real leather.
PVC leather is often used for gloves that need to keep water out, like some gardening gloves or gloves for light outdoor work. It is usually cheaper than PU leather, but it can feel stiffer, especially when it is cold.
Microfiber leather is a newer type of artificial leather. It is made from tiny fibers, which makes it soft and flexible, similar to sheepskin. Microfiber leather is breathable and durable, so it works well for many types of gloves, from casual to semi-work gloves. It is also more environmentally friendly than some other artificial leathers, which is a plus for people who care about that.
Each type of leather has its own pros and cons. Real leathers are natural and often last a long time, but they can be expensive and need more care. Artificial leathers are usually cheaper, easier to maintain, and can be made to have specific features like water resistance, but they might not feel as natural as real leather. The type of leather used for gloves really depends on what the gloves will be used for—whether it is for work, fashion, warmth, or something else.