Gauntlets are protective gloves that can be used for a variety of activities, from combat to fashion. They have evolved over time to meet the needs of different professions and hobbies, and are still used today in fields such as science, sports, and butchery. The term “gauntlet” can also refer to a challenge, but is derived from the Old French word for glove.
Gauntlets are a type of glove that generally extend from the forearm to the tips of the fingers. In reality, a series of gloves are called gauntlets, though the context is usually clear from usage. In most cases, a pair of gloves is designed to serve a protective function, ensuring that the wearer’s hands are not harmed by activities ranging from sports fencing to butchery. Specialty vendors sell specialized gloves for a wide range of needs that focus on outfitting specific professions and hobbies. Some fashion designers also use gloves in their designs, although these gloves serve a more ornamental function.
In the original sense, a gauntlet was a glove worn with plate or chain mail. These gauntlets were usually lined with leather to make them more comfortable, and covered in metal to protect the forearm, wrist, and hand from hard blows. Over time, armies evolved so that chain mail was no longer necessary, but some form of tough protective glove has always been required, as hands are extremely delicate and susceptible to damage in combat.
The feel of a gauntlet as a heavy protective glove has carried over to other fields as well. Scientists routinely wear gauntlets as part of space suits and lab equipment to protect their hands, while biologists use them to handle animals ranging from hawks to wild cats. Butchers and other raw industry professionals also wear gloves to ensure they don’t injure themselves. They can also provide protection from cold weather, especially when lined with insulating wool or synthetic fibers.
Many athletes also wear gloves as part of the uniform for their sports. In heavy combat-based sports, Kevlar or leather gloves can be used to provide solid protection without the weight and inflexibility of metal. Kendo and fencing require gloves for practice and tournament use, reflecting the military origin of these sports, as well as concern for athletes’ hands.
In the sense of “throwing the gauntlet,” a glove is also a glove. Traditionally, slapping someone with a glove is considered a challenge to combat, as is throwing a glove in front of someone. In this usage, the word “gauntlet” is taken from the Old French gantelet, which is a diminutive form of glove. “Run Gauntlet” isn’t actually related to gloves; It is derived from gatlopp, a Swedish word that refers to running a course.
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