For something forceful and abrupt:
* "The sound of the door slamming shut was like a pair of leather straps being slapped together, silencing the room." This creates a sense of harshness and a sudden halt to something.
* "The waves crashing against the rocks sounded like giant leather gloves slapping each other, a relentless assault on the shore." This emphasizes the power and unrelenting nature of the waves.
For something rhythmic and repetitive:
* "The rhythmic tapping of the blacksmith's hammer on the anvil echoed like a pair of leather straps being slapped together in a steady beat." This emphasizes the repetition and the sense of rhythm.
* "The sound of the dancer's heels hitting the wooden floor was like a rapid clapping of leather, each step marking a pulse of energy." This emphasizes the controlled and rhythmic nature of the movement.
For something harsh and jarring:
* "The sound of the argument escalating was like leather slapping together, each angry word adding a sharp crack to the tension." This creates a sense of aggression and hostility.
* "The sudden halt of the train was jarring, like two pieces of leather being slapped together, sending a shockwave through the carriage." This emphasizes the abruptness and the sudden impact of the event.
The specific metaphor you choose will depend on the context and the emotion you want to evoke.