Why a Pair of Quality Leather Gloves Makes an Excellent Christmas Gift

A really good pair of leather gloves makes a lovely Christmas gift. There’s a little luxury in slipping your hands into soft leather and a warm lining, even if you’re only heading out to scrape the ice off the windscreen. 

And once the decorations come down, there’s still plenty of winter left to enjoy them.

What to look for in a pair of leather gloves

Start by thinking about when the recipient will wear them. Supple lambskin is a good choice for a smart pair to wear with a winter coat. If they like a slightly more casual look, consider deerskin, which often has a more pronounced grain.

If you’re shopping in person, gently flex the fingers and check the seams, especially around the fingertips and between the fingers. Look for even stitching and a lining that sits smoothly. A glove can look lovely laid flat on a counter. The real test is how easily you can close your hand once it’s on.

Choose a lining they’ll enjoy wearing

Cashmere gives a pair of gloves a soft, luxurious feel, while wool is a good choice for everyday winter wear. A silk-lined pair is worth considering for someone who likes a slimmer dress glove. Think about the cuff, too. If they spend a lot of time outdoors, a cuff that tucks under their coat sleeve can help keep cold air off their wrists.

Get the fit right

If you can measure without spoiling the surprise, wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of their dominant hand, across the knuckles and excluding the thumb. Use the maker’s size chart. A good fit should feel snug while leaving enough room to bend the fingers comfortably. If you’re guessing, ask for a gift receipt and check the Christmas returns window before you buy.

As for colour, take a cue from the coat they wear most. Black is an easy choice, rich brown looks lovely with navy, and burgundy is a handsome option for someone who enjoys a bit of colour.

Wrap the gloves in tissue and tuck them into a small box. With luck, they’ll be out of the box and on someone’s hands by the time you set off for the Boxing Day walk.