Leather
Through careful material selection and solid craftsmanship, we create gloves where each type of leather contributes its distinct character.
Leather and hides
Craftsmanship, performance and responsibility
At Hestra, the choice of materials is essential for craftsmanship, function and feel. We work with carefully selected hides and leathers from long-term partners around the world. Through close relationships with our suppliers, strict quality requirements and continuous control, we ensure materials with long lifespan, high performance and responsible production.
Each material is chosen for its unique combination of function, comfort and durability. With respect for the natural properties of the raw material and a strong focus on craftsmanship, we create gloves that age beautifully and last over time.
Hairsheep
Hairsheep is an exclusive and exceptionally soft leather with a supple feel and natural elegance. It conforms to the hand and has a subtle sheen without appearing glossy. The leather feels warm on cold days and pleasantly cool in milder temperatures. Our Italian lamb nappa is mainly used in fashion gloves for women and men. For best durability, regularly moisturize with Hestra Leather Lotion to maintain softness and luster.
Cowhide
Cowhide is a robust and hardwearing leather with a firm structure and good protective qualities. Its relatively thick construction develops a beautiful patina over time and results in gloves with a long lifespan. It is commonly used in ski, work and outdoor gloves where durability is essential. For best longevity, regular impregnation and conditioning with Hestra Leather Balm is recommended.
Goat leather
Goat leather is a supple yet durable leather with a natural grain and high strength relative to its thickness. It provides a well-balanced combination of flexibility, dexterity and durability. The material is often used in sport, outdoor and ski gloves where precision and comfort are key. Goat leather is naturally resistant to moisture and abrasion but should still be regularly treated with Hestra Leather Balm to age beautifully and retain its properties over time.
Deerskin
Deerskin is characterized by its exceptional softness, natural elasticity and high comfort. The leather has good insulating properties and remains supple even in cold conditions. It is mainly used in winter gloves and models focused on warmth, flexibility and comfort. Regular impregnation and conditioning with Hestra Leather Balm help maintain its qualities over time.
Elk Leather
Elk leather is a thick and highly durable leather with a distinct structure and robust character. Its natural thickness provides both protection and insulation, making it particularly suitable for heavier winter and outdoor gloves where durability and warmth are prioritized. Regular impregnation and conditioning with Hestra Leather Balm help preserve the material’s properties over time.
Nubuck
Nubuck is a finely sanded leather with a soft, matte surface and a comfortable feel in the hand. By sanding the outer surface of the leather, the material’s natural structure is highlighted, resulting in an even, refined appearance with good flexibility. Nubuck combines comfort and mobility with a more relaxed character and is used in both our fashion and outdoor gloves.
Suede
Suede is a soft and flexible leather with a brushed surface and a warm, tactile feel. The material has natural elasticity and provides high comfort, making it suitable for use in both our fashion and outdoor gloves. The open surface gives suede its characteristic appearance but also makes it more sensitive to moisture and dirt. Regular impregnation helps protect the surface and preserve the material’s properties over time.
Peccary
Peccary is an exclusive leather from South American wild boar, valued for its unique combination of strength, softness and insulating properties. Its exceptional elasticity allows the material to naturally adapt to the hand and retain its fit over time. Peccary is regarded as one of the world’s most exclusive glove leathers and is used in our finest, often hand-sewn, fashion gloves for women and men.
Carpincho
Carpincho comes from a South American rodent and is considered one of the most exclusive glove materials available. The leather is remarkably soft yet strong and durable, with a distinctive grain and a supple feel. In some styles, carpincho leather is processed into nubuck by lightly sanding the grain surface, creating a soft, suede-like character. The material is used in our most exclusive fashion gloves for women and men, many of which are handcrafted.
Craftsmanship across generations
Hestra’s leather gloves are founded on craftsmanship passed down through generations since 1936. Each pair is made with care from carefully selected leathers – from soft lamb nappa to durable cowhide and supple deerskin – with a strong focus on fit, quality and feel.
Long-term supplier relationships
Our suppliers are a vital part of our business. These relationships are built on personal contact, mutual respect and shared values regarding quality, responsibility and long-term development.
All collaborations are based on Hestra’s Code of Conduct, which follows international guidelines for human rights, working conditions and responsible business practices. Leather suppliers must also comply with our animal welfare policy.
“Through close dialogue and knowledge sharing, we develop materials that combine comfort, durability and sustainability.”
Sustainability, chemicals and responsible tanning
Leather production requires a high level of control and transparency. We work systematically to minimize impact throughout the entire supply chain:
· Suppliers must comply with European chemical legislation (REACH) as well as local laws.
· Our Restricted Substances List is developed together with the Swedish Chemicals Group and updated regularly.
· Materials are continuously tested in accredited laboratories.
· All tanneries must have functioning wastewater treatment systems.
· We collaborate with the Leather Working Group, which evaluates the environmental and social performance of tanneries.
Through site visits, certification reviews and recurring testing, we ensure both material quality and responsible production.
