Cold Hands Sell Good Gloves; Local Heritage Sells Good Gloves for Life

Hand Armor

In the world of gloves, the first requirement is simple: keep hands warm. But for Hand Armor, a family-run business rooted in the Midwest, the mission goes far beyond solving this basic problem. It’s about creating gloves that carry the warmth of heritage, quality, and trust—products that last a lifetime, much like the relationships they build with their customers.

Local Roots, Global Reach

Hand Armor’s story begins in 1977, when founder Jim Rosenwald turned his knowledge of Midwest deer hide trading into a small operation crafting deerskin gloves. Over time, the company grew into an industry leader in premium gloves, specializing in everything from motorcycle and ski gloves to custom-branded work gloves. Today, Jim’s son, Jon-Paul, continues the legacy, ensuring that every glove reflects the company’s roots in quality craftsmanship and Midwest values.

“Our gloves started with local deer hides, and that connection to our heritage remains at the core of what we do,” Jon-Paul explains. “It’s about taking something local and turning it into something extraordinary.”

Quality Crafted to Last

Hand Armor’s commitment to quality is reflected in every detail. Their gloves are made using premium materials such as deerskin, elkskin, and Thinsulate, all meticulously crafted to ensure durability and performance. The company also prides itself on innovation, regularly improving its designs to meet customer needs.

One of their standout products, the Sherpa-lined deerskin mitten, has gained a cult following in the hockey world for its warmth, comfort, and precision fit. Customers return year after year for its reliability. “The secret is in the craftsmanship,” Jon-Paul shares. “We don’t cut corners. Our goal is to create products people can depend on.”

Heritage Meets Innovation

While the company is deeply tied to its roots, it’s not afraid to embrace new ideas. Over the years, Jon-Paul has spearheaded product improvements and design innovations based on customer feedback. Whether it’s refining the fit of a women’s fashion mitten or adding personalized branding for corporate buyers, Hand Armor balances tradition with modern needs.

Their laser branding service is a perfect example of this blend. By embossing company logos onto gloves, they help businesses create memorable, high-quality promotional items. It’s a simple but effective way to pair functionality with branding, extending the life of their product’s impact.

Building Relationships, Not Just Products

At the heart of Hand Armor is a dedication to relationships—whether it’s with local deer hide suppliers, loyal customers, or independent retailers. “We’re not some faceless corporation,” Jon-Paul says. “We’re a small family business. When you call us, you’re not just talking to a sales rep—you’re talking to someone who knows the product inside and out.”

This personal touch has paid off, with many customers and retailers staying loyal for decades. From local hardware stores to national chains, Hand Armor has built a network that values trust and quality over mass production.

More Than Just Gloves

Hand Armor doesn’t just make gloves—they craft a legacy. Each pair carries the essence of the Midwest, the care of a family-run business, and the promise of quality that stands the test of time. From the first snowflake of winter to the last embers of a campfire, their gloves become part of the stories their customers create.

“Cold hands sell good gloves,” Jon-Paul reflects. “But it’s the connection to our heritage and the relationships we build that sell gloves for life.”