Absorbency: The ability of a fabric to take in moisture. Absorbency is a very important property, which affects many other characteristics such as skin comfort, static build-up, shrinkage, stain removal, water repellency and wrinkle recovery.

Abrasion-Resistance: The ability to resist wear from the continuous rubbing of the fabric against another surface. Garments made from fabrics that possess both high breaking strength and abrasion resistance can be worn often and for a long period of time before signs of wear appear.

Aniline leather: A type of leather in which high quality hides have been treated with aniline as a dye. This produces a delicate, soft, supple leather.

Armor-Tan: A leather treatment by the world famous Pittards® tannery in England. The Armor-Tan™ process involves encasing the leather fibril bundles in microscopic ceramic “armor plates” which are more resistant to abrasion, thus increasing the durability of the leather by preventing wear on contact surfaces and materials. Armor-Tan™ treated leather is 25% more resistant to abrasion than untreated leather. For more information, visit the Pittards website at http://www.pittards.com.

ArmorTip™ Fingertip: A trade name for the Hatch Model PPG-1 gloves. This feature provides cut resistance where 80-90% of needle stick injuries occur - on the leading edge of the fingertips and sides of the index and small fingers.

Balaclava: A balaclava is a form of headgear, such as a helmet or ski mask, covering the whole head, exposing only the face or upper part of it, and sometimes only the eyes.

Cabretta: Thin, fine leather made from hair sheep. It is used in gloves needing superior tactility and dexterity.

Cordura® nylon: Nylon is a generic designation for a family of synthetic polymers known generically as polyamides and first produced on February 28, 1935 by Wallace Carothers at DuPont. Nylon is one of the most commonly used polymers. Cordura nylon is the registered name of a high-performance nylon 6.6. It is designed to be long lasting and resistant to abrasions, tears and scuffs.

Chamude: A soft and flexible synthetic leather with a suede surface texture which breaths like genuine leather. It is machine washable. Similar to Clarino™.

Clarino: A soft and flexible synthetic leather with a suede surface texture which breathes like genuine leather. It is machine washable.

CoolMax: CoolMax is the performance fabric designed to wick moisture away from the skin, where it can evaporate quickly, allowing the wearer to feel cooler and more comfortable. Other useful properties of CoolMax is resistance to fading, shrinking and wrinkling.

CoolTex: A similar performance material to CoolMax. It is designed to wick moisture away from the skin.

Cowhide: One of the most durable garment leathers, providing the best value. This leather type can be made in all weights and textures. New ways of finishing cowhide produce a sensual softness and suppleness. Cowhide is available in a wide range of shades and textures.

Cuff: The cuff is the part of the glove extending beyond the palm that covers the wrist and part of the forearm.

Cut Ring: A Hatch patented design, this ring around the index finger of various models allows for optional removal of the trigger finger portion for control without unraveling the remaining edge.

Drum-dyed: This is a process whereby leather hides would be loaded in a drum and immersed in a float containing the dye. The hides are allowed to soak (while the drum slowly rotates about its axle).

Ergo-Cut™: This is a signature design of certain Hatch gloves. The patterned cut of the gloves is made to the natural curvature of the hand, so your hand can remain relaxed while inserted in the glove.

Elasticity: The ability to increase in length under tension and then return to the original length when released.

Fourchettes: The piece of leather sewn between the fingers on some kinds of gloves. (also known as the sidewall or gusset).

Gauntlet Cuff: A glove cuff designed for extra protection for the forearm. Usually a 4 and one half inch cuff. Slides on and off easily and allows for maximum movement of forearm.

Grain: The side of the leather that had the hair, i.e. the outside. Full grain has the original surface, whereas corrected grain has been abraded to make the leather smoother and more uniform. It is regarded for its soft, grainy texture and appearance

Gusset: The piece of leather sewn between the fingers on some kinds of gloves. Also known as the sidewall or fourchettes.

Goatskin Leather: A type of leather from goats. Goatskin is used for its durability combined with its excellent dexterity and tactility.

Hipora®: A waterproof film with polyurethane coating. Numerous micro pores are placed all over the polyurethane coating which shut out water from the outside, yet allow the moisture or warm steam from the body to exit. Glove liners made with HIPORA® are waterproof, windproof and breathable all at the same time and will keep hands dry and comfortable.

Hydrofil®: A breathable, fluid liner used in Hatch gloves

Hook & Loop: Hook and loop refers to the type of closure found on the wrists of gloves. It is the generic term for Velcro brand hook and loop. The hook from one side marries the loop on the other side and when they come together they form a very strong adhesion.

Powershield X3®: Liner A liner comprised of Honeywell Spectra®, fiberglass and polyester that provides 10 times the cut resistance of 100% Honeywell Spectra material of the same weight

Leather: A hide or skin that has been preserved by a chemical process called tanning. Leather is the most ancient form of clothing known to man and only certain types are adaptable for gloves.

LiquiCell®: This is an innovative liquid-filled padding technology that combines a low-viscosity fluid and strategically placed baffles, which significantly reduces pressure and absorbs shock. www.liquicell.com

Lycra®: Lycra is the most famous trade name for Spandex. is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It is stronger and more durable than rubber, its major non-synthetic competitor. It is a polyurethane-polyurea copolymer that was invented in 1959 by DuPont chemist Joseph Shivers.

Thermolite™: Thermolite® provides warmth and comfort without weight, even when wet. It’s the lightweight fabric that provides heavy-duty performance... because it’s fabric made with ADVANSA engineered hollow-core fibers that trap air for greater insulation. Plus, wearers stay drier because it dries 20% faster than other insulating fabrics, and 50% faster than cotton. Thermolite® is the perfect layering fabric because it’s comfortable and lightweight, allowing more freedom of movement.

Thinsulate™: It is a type of synthetic fiber thermal insulation used in protective apparel such as gloves. It is designed to retain warmth. The name Thinsulate is a trademark of 3M.

C70 Thinsulate™: Thinsulate is a type of synthetic fiber thermal insulation used in protective apparel such as gloves. The name Thinsulate is a trademark of 3M.Thinsulate™ Insulation Type C offers about one and a half times the warmth of down and nearly twice the warmth of high loft fiberfill insulations when equal thicknesses are compared.

C-100 Thinsulate™: Thinsulate is a type of synthetic fiber thermal insulation used in protective apparel such as gloves. The name Thinsulate is a trademark of 3M.Thinsulate™ Insulation Type C offers about one and a half times the warmth of down and nearly twice the warmth of high loft fiberfill insulations when equal thicknesses are compared.

KEVLAR®: Aromic polyamide fibers, consisting of synthetic polyamides, commonly woven into fabric for cut and heat resistant gloves, aprons, etc. KEVLAR® provides protection against cuts without diminishing manual dexterity or flexibility. It is 4 times more cut resistant than leather, almost 2 times more cut resistant than equal weight cotton and 40% more cut resistant than NOMEX®. The cut resistant properties of KEVLAR® will not diminish or wear out, even after repeated laundering. KEVLAR® has outstanding high-temperature resistance and low thermal conductivity. It will not burn, melt, or support combustion. It will not decompose until exposed to temperatures exceeding 800°-900°F. For more information, please visit DuPont's KEVLAR website at http://www.dupont.com/kevlar.

NOMEX®: This is an extraordinary fiber with a combination of high-performance heat and flame resistant properties. NOMEX® has outstanding high-temperature resistance and low thermal conductivity. It will not burn, melt, or support combustion. It will not decompose until exposed to temperatures exceeding 800°-900°F. When exposed to intense heat, the fibers carbonize and thicken, increasing the protective barrier between the skin and heat source to minimize burn injury. This protective barrier stays supple and flexible until it cools, giving the wearer valuable extra seconds of protection to escape. While KEVLAR® is about 40% more cut resistant, NOMEX is more cut resistant than leather and equal weight cotton. NOMEX® is more commonly used in heat/flame resistant garments than KEVLAR® because of its superior textile characteristics. NOMEX® garments are more comfortable to wear than those made of KEVLAR® or other heat/flame resistant fabrics and have superior feel and dexterity. For more information please visit DuPont’s NOMEX® website at http://dupont.com/nomex

Dyneema®: Dyneema® is a super strong polyethylene fiber that offers maximum strength combined with minimum weight. It is up to 15 times stronger than quality steel and up to 40% stronger than aramid fibers, both on weight for weight basis. Dyneema® floats on water and is extremely durable and resistant to moisture, UV light and chemicals. The applications are therefore more or less unlimited.

Nylon: Nylon is a generic designation for a family of synthetic polymers known generically as polyamides and first produced on February 28, 1935 by Wallace Carothers at DuPont. Nylon is one of the most commonly used polymers. Generic name for all polymers having recurring amide groups in the molecular backbone. Various types of nylon are described by numbers that relate to the number of carbon atoms in the various reactants. Effect of heat: Sticks at 445°F, Melts at 480°F, Yellows slightly at 300°F when held for 5 hours. The most extensively used type of nylon in gloves is Nylon 6/6.

NIJ: NIJ is an acronym for National Institute of Justice. NIJ is the research, development and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice and is dedicated to researching crime control and justice issues. NIJ provides objective, independent, evidence-based knowledge and tools to meet the challenges of crime and justice, particularly at the state and local levels. Several Hatch glove models have been tested under NIJ protocol.

Neoprene: Neoprene or polychloroprene is a family of synthetic rubbers that are produced by polymerization of chloroprene. Neoprene is the trade name used by DuPont Performance Elastomers.

Synsi-feel: This is a synthetic leather providing excellent grip and accurate feel

Schoeller Dynamic Extreme Fabric: A versatile, breathable, permanently elastic fabric made mainly for the outdoor and adventure sports market by Schoeller® of Switzerland. It offers good wear resistance, durability and flexibility. Dynamic fabric is water and soil repellent. It is composed of Cordura®, Lycra® and Polyamide. For more information on Schoeller® dynamic extreme visit the Schoeller Textiles website at http://www.schoeller-textiles.com.

EN 388: Standard The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) developed the CE EN 388 standards for all protective gloves used in law enforcement and military applications. The EN 388 rigorously tests protective gloves with regards to physical and mechanical aggression caused by abrasion, blade cut, puncture, tear, impact cut and dexterity.

CE Certification: CE certification is achieved through a rigorous process outlined by the European Committee for Standardization, who developed the EN 388 standard for all protective gloves used in law enforcement and military applications. The EN 388 rigorously test protective gloves with regard to physical and mechanical aggression cause by abrasion, blade cut, puncture, tear, impact, cut and dexterity.

SFI: SFI was originally a foundation run by SEMA, the automotive aftermarket trade organization. The letters "SFI" stood for "SEMA Foundation, Inc." Although SFI is now completely independent from SEMA, the Foundation has retained the name SFI Foundation, Inc. but the "S" no longer means SEMA. The SFI Foundation, Inc. (SFI) is a non-profit organization established to issue and administer standards for specialty/performance automotive and racing equipment. Manufacturers of equipment are the primary users of SFI standards. Some standards are adopted as part of the rules of race sanctioning organizations. Ultimately, the consumer benefits from the program as it establishes recognized levels of performance or quality for a product.

Floating Thumb design: Glove design whereby the thumb is inset to the trank (body of the glove) permitting an expanded range of motion.

Extreme-Grip™: Synthetic non-slip, non-skid material that offers excellent grip features

ExoTech®: Hatch's brand of hard shell disturbance control gear

IR Signature: The ability of an item to be detected by infrared. The Hatch SOGHK 300/350/400 gloves provide for a reduced IR signature out in the field.

3D Knit Spacer Fabric: A unique breathable knit fabric that permits evaporative cooling

Tactility: Having to do with sense of touch. Many Hatch glove models offer excellent tactility allowing effective sense of touch in a gloved hand.

Pittards® Tannery of England: Pittards plc aims to be the preferred supplier of high performance leather to the world's leading brands of gloves, shoes, luxury leathergoods and sports equipment They provide leather for Dress Gloves, Footwear, Interiors, Ladies Fashion Footwear, Leathergoods, Military / Armed Services, Motorcycle Leathers, Saddlery, Sports Footwear, Sports Gloves, etc.

"Second-skin" thin: A way to describe the incredible thinness of various glove models

Sheepskin: Under the classifications of Cabretta, capeskin and suede is taken from the hardy animals native cold and high altitude climates.

Sure Grip™: Sure Grip is a rubberized material that enhances grip

FLEX™: Stitching pattern that improves flexibility and dexterity

O.S.H.A: Acronym for the Occupational Health and Safety Administration

Pathogen: Any disease-producing agent, esp. a virus, bacterium, or other microorganism.

Blood Borne Pathogens Standard (29CFR 1910.1030): In 1991, OSHA issued the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) to protect workers from this risk. In 2001, in response to the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act, OSHA revised the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. The revised standard clarifies the need for employers to select safer needle devices and to involve employees in identifying and choosing these devices. The updated standard also requires employers to maintain a log of injuries from contaminated sharps.

3M™ Reflective Strips: 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material is the broad line of reflective products that incorporate patented retroreflection technology. Products are available through 3M or our global network of manufacturers of converted products.

Vent Cuff: A v-shaped opening in the wrist area of a glove

Snap Cuff: Type of closure on a glove; a snap closure is located on the wrist

Spandex: Spandex—or elastane—is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It is stronger and more durable than rubber, its major non-synthetic competitor. It is a polyurethane-polyurea copolymer that was invented in 1959 by DuPont chemist Joseph Shivers. When first introduced, it revolutionized many areas of the clothing industry.

Polyamide: A polyamide is a polymer containing monomers of amides joined by peptide bonds. They can occur both naturally, examples being proteins, such as wool and silk, and can be made artificially through step-growth polymerization, examples being nylons, aramids, and sodium poly aspartate.

Water-Resistant: Water-resistant describes objects which resist water passage, or which are covered with a material that resists or does not allow water passage.

Polyester: Polyester is a manufactured product made from synthesized polymers. It tends to be very resilient, quick drying, resistant to biological damage such as mold and mildew, easy to wash, and able to hold forms well.

Lbf: A unit of weight "Pounds per Square Foot"

Honeywell Spectra®: An ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fiber made by Allied Signal®. It is the strongest manmade fiber available. Spectra® is 8-10 times stronger than steel, 40% stronger than aramid fiber (i.e. KEVLAR®) and stronger and lighter than virtually every other commercial high-modulus fiber. Spectra® offers almost twice the cut resistance of Kevlar® of the same weight. For more information on Spectra®, please visit Honeywell/Allied Signal’s website.

Digitized leather: CAD in 2D is realized by digitization for Automated leather cutting

Super Dot™: Gloves A knit glove with PVC dots that cover the palm area to provide an excellent grip for jobs such as mail sorting.

Half-Finger: A description for gloves that only have half the finger covered by material. Half of the finger is open. The model SDP30 is an example of this type of glove design.

3/4-Finger: A description for gloves that only have 3/4 the finger covered by material. One quarter of the finger is open.

Full-Finger: Describes a glove that completely covers the fingers, as opposed to covering only half fo the glove.

Hard Knuckle: A feature on gloves whereby the knuckle area is made up of a hard material, such as plastic or other polymer, to help protect the knuckles.

Mustang 'CoF' (Coefficient of Friction) oiltack suede: The Mustang ‘CoF’ (Coefficient of Friction) oiltack suede palms, from the world famous Pittards® Tannery in England, offer grip far superior to that of standard leather in either wet or dry conditions.

Toughtek: The Mustang ‘CoF’ (Coefficient of Friction) oiltack suede palms, from the world famous Pittards® Tannery in England, offer grip far superior to that of standard leather in either wet or dry conditions.

EVA Foam Padding: A durable foam made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate

Closed-Cell Foam: Closed cell foam is a strong, flexible material that's made up of internal pores, or cells, that sit closely together but are not connected. Its structure can be compared to a net filled with balloons, where the balloons are trapped tightly against each other, but they are not interconnected. It's a versatile material that can be used in everything from crafts to construction.

Sponge Foam: A soft open cell foam with excellent energy absorbing qualities

Centurion™: Hatch's brand of soft shell disturbance control gear

Tricot: Tricot is a plain warp-knit fabric that can be created with an array of fibres and fibre blends. One side will feature fine ribs running in a lengthwise pattern, while the other side will feature ribs that run in a crosswise direction. Brushed tricot, comes from and added process which enhances its soft feel.

Don and Doff: Military terminology for putting an equipment item on the body and taking it off the body.

Polypropylene: A thermoplastic resin used as a fiber reinforcement made by polymerizing propylene. Its density (approximately 0.90) is among the lowest of all plastics. Polypropylenes can be modified to gain improved properties by compounding with fillers, e.g. glass fibers, by blending with synthetic elastomers, and by copolymerizing with small amounts of other monomers. Glass reinforced polypropylene can be processed by injection molding, continuous lamination and rotational molding. Also known as POLYPROPENE.

Polyethylene: A family of resins prepared from the polymerization of ethylene gas using a variety of catalysts. Cured during or after molding they become true thermosets with good tensile strength, electrical properties and impact strength over a wide range of temperatures. Glass fiber reinforced polyethylene can be processed by injection molding, rotational molding, and blow moldings.

Polyurethane: A family of resins produced by reacting a diisocyanate with an organic compound containing two or more active hydrogen atoms to form polymers having free isocyanate groups. These groups, under the influence of heat or certain catalysts, will in turn react with each other, or with a compound containing an active hydrogen, such as water or a glycol, to form a thermosetting material. Thermoplastic polyurethanes are also available as elastomeric or rigid materials readily accepting a variety of reinforcements such as glass or carbon fiber. The terms urethane and polyurethane are used interchangeably.

Denier: Denier, unit of measurement of linear mass-density of textile fiber calculated as one gram per 9000 meters

Resiliency: The ability of a material to spring back to shape after being creased, twisted or distorted. It is closely connected with wrinkle recovery. An example of good resiliency is polyester

Sidewall: Narrow panel running down index finger and/or little finger side of glove for fuller fit and rugged look.

TPU: Thermoplastic polyurethane

Eastex® Slip-Not: Slip-Not is a unique fabric that holds up strongly to wear and abrasion while also offering grip and non-skid in both wet and dry conditions. Waterproof, fire retardant, washable, cold crack tested to -40F, and withstanding 12,k000 revolutions on the Taber Abrasion Test, Slip Not is excellent for sewing or welding and is soft and washable.

Suede: Suede is a type of leather with a napped finish. However, it can also refer to a similar napped or brushed finish on many kinds of fabrics. The term comes from the French "gants de Suède", which literally means "gloves of Sweden". Suede leather is made from the under side of the skin, primarily lamb, although goat, pig, calf and deer are commonly used.

X11 Liner: X11 offers extreme cut resistance without being bulky and is comfortable and flexible enough for any task. The extremely popular Street Guard tm) glove has been combined with the new X11 liner to create the SGX11 Street Guard tm), setting a new standard in cut resistant duty gloves. The SGX11 resists an astounding 11 lbf of cut force.

Wickability: The ability of a fiber to transport moisture away from the skin.

WRX Treatment: This is a water-resistant treatment that helps shed water quickly for further improved wet grip performance.