Quick Topic:

What is split leather?

An animal hide can be divided, or split, into three specific layers, and is often done with thicker hides.  

The 2 main layers are often called:

• Top grain - this is the smooth outer layer
• Drop split, or flesh split - this is the hairy inner layer

Once the hides are finished and have left the tannery, they are typically referred to as their finished name such as Nubuck, Quilon, Nappa, etc.  The bottom layers, or drop split, are now called split leather, suede, or split velour.  The top layers, or top grain splits are the most sought after and valuable.  The formation of the fibers is much denser in the top layers therefore making them more resistant to tearing.

Caiman® Gloves utilize both grain leather and split leather in many of our products.  Depending on your intended use, you’ll want to carefully choose which will work best.  If there is any chance of the gloves getting wet, in most cases, you’ll be better off with grain leather.  This is due the loose fibers of split leather.  While some dry soft after getting wet, the fibers could be susceptible to breaking down and tearing.  For the best durability, you’ll want to stick with grain leather.

Here are some examples of Caiman® Gloves using both grain and split leather…

*Click any image to view in store*

Caiman® 2969 Gray Ovis-Hide™ Top Grain Multi-Activity Gloves

• Ovis-Hide™ - Premium Sheep Grain palm

• Kontour Index™ design places the seam on the back of the index finger away from critical wear area to ensure maximum durability & comfort

• Internal padded palm for extra comfort and snug fit

• Exclusive Caiman® raised pull patch & pulse protector

• AirMesh™ ultra-breathable back provides ultimate comfort & support

• Pinch’d-Tip™ fingers for maximum sensitivity

• Neoprene knuckle protection with reflective trim

• Neoprene cuff with hook-n-loop pull strap for comfort and wrist support

Sizes: M - 2XL

Caiman® 2956 Gold Grain Multi-Activity Gloves

• Genuine Grain Leather

• Kontour Index™ design places the seam on the back of the index finger away from critical wear area to ensure maximum durability & comfort

• Thumb and Index finger conductivity allows you to use your touchscreen devices without removing your gloves

• Padded G-Grip™ patches strategically placed on palm and finger tips for max grip & wear

• Exclusive Caiman® raised pull patch & pulse protector

• AirMesh™ ultra-breathable back provides ultimate comfort & support

• Pinch’d-Tip™ fingers for maximum sensitivity

• Neoprene knuckle protection with reflective trim

• Neoprene cuff with hook-n-loop pull strap for comfort and wrist support

Sizes: S - 2XL 

Caiman® 2970 Gray Genuine American Deerskin Multi-Activity Gloves

• Heavy Genuine American deer split leather

• Truly Washable leather, Dries soft

• Internal padded palm for extra comfort and snug fit

• Exclusive Caiman® raised pull patch & pulse protector

• AirMesh™ ultra-breathable back provides ultimate comfort & support

• Pinch’d-Tip™ fingers for maximum sensitivity

• Neoprene knuckle protection with reflective trim

• Neoprene cuff with hook-n-loop pull strap for comfort and wrist support

Sizes: XS - 2XL