The Art of Caring for Sheepskin Leather Gloves

Hestra gloves worn against a Corneliani camel overcoat

A good pair of leather gloves is an investment that will never go out of style. Just as you wouldn’t wear a worn-out parka to a formal event, you shouldn’t compromise on the elegance of your gloves. In this article, we will guide you through the essential factors to consider when buying high-quality leather gloves and provide expert tips on how to care for them.

What to Look for When Buying Leather Gloves

Quality Leather

When it comes to the longevity and comfort of your gloves, investing in high-quality leather is crucial. Poor quality leather tends to be stiffer, crack easily, and lose its shape. Opt for leathers such as hairsheep, deerskin, and peccary for their durability and luxurious feel.

Hairsheep leather

Hairsheep leather gloves

Hairsheep leather stands out with its exceptional softness and lightweight nature. It possesses high tensile strength, making it more resistant to stretching and movement. Its smooth, glossy texture adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.

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Deerskin leather

Deerskin leather gloves

Deerskin leather combines strength and softness, providing a pebbled grain texture. Known for its durability, deerskin leather is perfect for colder days due to its thicker and more rugged nature.

Peccary leather

Peccary leather gloves

Considered the pinnacle of glove leather, peccary leather is both soft and flexible. Derived from the hide of wild boars native to the Amazon, peccary leather offers unmatched durability, warmth, and longevity. Any rip or tear can be effortlessly resewn, ensuring a lifetime of use.

Appropriate Lining

The lining of your gloves contributes to their overall comfort and warmth. Choose from different options based on your preferences and needs.

Cashmere

Cashmere glove lining

Cashmere linings offer the ultimate luxury and softness. With excellent insulation properties, these gloves keep your hands warm while maintaining a sleek silhouette. Ideal for dressy occasions.

Wool

Wool glove lining

Wool linings provide durability and a slightly bulkier feel. While not as soft as cashmere, they still offer warmth and a touch of luxury. A perfect choice for everyday gloves.

Shearling

Shearling glove lining

For the coldest climates, shearling and fur linings offer the highest level of warmth. Although bulkier, shearling-lined gloves ensure your hands stay cozy in chilly temperatures.

Quality Construction

The construction of your gloves plays a vital role in their fit and durability. Consider the following factors when selecting a pair:

  • Drum-dyeing: Retains the natural characteristics of the leather, ensuring the most authentic look and feel.
  • Table cutting: A skill possessed by only a few professionals worldwide. Gloves cut by expert cutters offer a superior fit, maximizing the use of each piece of leather. The direction and angle of the cuts are strategically planned for optimal comfort.
  • Hand-sewn vs. machine-sewn: While machine-sewn gloves provide uniformity and durability, hand-sewn gloves have a unique look and offer easier repair in case of a seam rip. Both options have their merits.
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Additionally, keep an eye out for glove quirks, the small triangle pieces between the fingers. These quirks enhance flexibility, preventing seam ripping and enhancing overall comfort and longevity.

Glove Size and Fit

Measuring a hand for glove sizing

To find your glove size, measure the circumference of your hand (not including the thumb) at its widest part. Match the measurement with the corresponding size:

  • Size 8: 22 cm
  • Size 8.5: 23 cm
  • Size 9: 24 cm
  • Size 9.5: 25 cm
  • Size 10: 27 cm

Bear in mind that gloves should initially feel slightly tight, as they will gradually conform to the shape of your hand. When trying them on, bend your hand slightly to produce a slight fold at the knuckles.

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How to Care for Leather Gloves

1. Put them on properly

How to put on a leather glove properly

New gloves might fit snugly, making them challenging to put on. Gently pull the glove over your hand by alternating between pulling the palm and the back of the hand toward the wrist. Avoid pushing the glove down between the fingers, as this strains the seams.

2. Remove them properly

How to properly remove a leather glove

When removing your gloves, start by gently pulling each finger to loosen them. Then, pull all four fingers simultaneously to avoid placing too much strain on a single finger.

3. Stretch them periodically to restore elasticity

Stretching a leather glove over a counter

Over time, leather gloves can lose their elasticity. To restore their shape, stretch them over the edge of a table by holding the cuff opening and the fingers. Gently stretch each finger downward towards the cuff, repeating the process several times. This simple technique will maintain the perfect fit.

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4. Keep them dry

Leather, especially light-colored, drum-dyed leather, is prone to staining when exposed to water. While hairsheep is the most sensitive, peccary and deerskin leathers are more forgiving. To prevent water damage, keep your gloves dry at all times. If they do get wet, allow them to air dry on a flat surface, away from direct sunlight. For water stains that persist, lightly dust talcum powder and gently rub with a soft cloth. Avoid using radiators or hair dryers for quick drying, as heat and sun can damage the leather, causing it to dry out, lose shape, and become brittle.

5. Store them properly

Closeup details of peccary leather gloves

When storing your gloves, place them in a dark, well-ventilated area, laying them flat. Leather needs to breathe, so consider using a cotton dust bag for long-term storage.

6. Don’t overwear them

Like leather shoes, leather gloves benefit from regular rest to maintain their best condition. If possible, rotate between a few pairs of gloves to allow them to dry out and let the leather breathe. This practice will ensure their longevity and preserve their aesthetic.

7. Get them relined

After a few seasons of wear, the lining in your gloves may become worn. This is a natural occurrence and does not mean the end for your beloved gloves. Consult a glove finisher who can reline them, giving your gloves a fresh lease on life.

Ready to elevate your glove game? Shop our selection of Hestra gloves and experience the perfect blend of style, comfort, and longevity.

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