Glove parts

The main parts of a leather glove are the palm, the back of the hand, thumb, fingers, cuff and sleeve. The back of the hand usually has a leather reinforcement. Some gloves also feature reinforced palm, improving performance when working with machines, greater strength, durability and shock absorption. Gloves with long sleeve ensure protection of the forearm.


Regardless of the parts, there are different constructions of the glove: French type (three seams at the back of the hand in the extension of the fingers), American type (the middle and ring fingers are formed on the palm side from one piece which is sewn separately), dress type (the thumb is sewn separately).

The gauge

n gloves are made of woven fabric (or mesh fabric formed by interlocking loops of yarn), the needle is the main element of the work. The gauge is the number of needles of a loom in an English inch (2.54 cm).


The finer is the gauge, the thicker the glove, and the greater the protection provided. The thicker the gauge, the finer the glove, achieving greater dexterity and sensitivity, but a lower level of protection. Thus, gauge 7 employs a thick thread; gauge 10, a médium thread; and gauge 13, a thin thread.

Exterior finishes

The palm of the glove may have a smooth finish (easy washing and hinders stains). The rough finish, with different levels of roughness improves the grip of abrasive and slippery objects. Some gloves have rienforced palm and fingertips, which optimize the ability to grasp.
When a seal is not required, the back of the glove can be aerated for ventilation of the hand and greater user comfort.

Cuffs

As for the cuffs or sleeves, we can find different types of finishes:

  • Straight fit: The standard finish. It is used in unsupported gloves.
  • Zigzag or serrated cut: Increases the life of the gloves with textile backing.
  • Rolled edge: In the case of thin gloves, improves resistance to tearing when putting on the glove.
  • Safety sleeve: Enables greater wrist protection, is easy to take off quickly and allows ventilation of the hand.
  • Split sleeve: As above, ensures protection of the forearm and the lining of the sleeve.
  • Ribbing: Improves tear resistance.
  • Sealing sleeve: Protects the arm from injury.
  • Elastic cuff: It has a good fit and grip on hand. Generally made of knitted fabric, prevents the entry of foreign bodies in the area of the wrist and provides protection from the cold.

Interior finishes

There are various special treatments inside of the glove:

  • Chlorinated: This procedure involves washing the glove with chlorinated water, where traces of metals, organic matter, bacteria and viruses are removed. This treatment gives the glove a velvety touch, making it easier to put on and take off.
  • Powdered: A powder is applied inside the glove, generally corn starch (or other hypoallergenic substances), which limits the effects of perspiration and making it easier to put on and take off.
  • Flocking: The glove is lined with a cotton fibre making it soft and pleasant to the touch. Furthermore, flocking provides sweat absorption.