Miner's apron

In Germany the design of the modern miner's apron is governed by DIN standard 23307 Gesäßleder für den Bergbau (Arschleder).

Early illustrations of it are found on the title page of the "Little Mining Book" (Bergbüchlein) by Ulrich Rülein von Calw (1505) and on the miner's altar of St. Anne's Church in Annaberg (1521).

Georgius Agricola wrote in this book De re metallica (1556):So sat the miners on their aprons, which were tied around their loins, and hung down behind them.

In events connected with mining customs, this device is also used for the so-called "leather jump" (Ledersprung), a form of miners' initiation ceremony in Austria.

The pilot sits on a leather apron that protects the seat of his trousers and is hauled by the kite over rough ground (e.g., pastureland).