Leather Guide: Types of leather

When it comes to leather, we’ve all been taught that “Genuine Leather” is the best. But is it really?

At Windy Raven, we are among a small minority of companies that choose to use American leather. Leather from our American and Italian tanneries are known for their premium leather quality. We only use Full Grain Vegetable Tanned Leather; it’s the best leather that money can buy. 

Full Grain   

What is Full Grain Leather? Full grain leather comes from the top layer of the hide and retains the full grain during the tanning process. The natural surface of full grain leather ages and develops a beautiful patina with use. This is the best leather you can buy. 

Top Grain 

What is Top Grain Leather? Top Grain is second best. The top layer of the hide with blemishes is removed and an artificial finish is applied. Because the strongest fibers are removed, top grain pulls apart easily and won’t last as long. 

Genuine Leather

What is Genuine Leather? Genuine leather is another step down in quality and is the left overs from other hides that have been split off. The surface is refinished to look like leather, but it can be painted on. This grade of leather is the most commonly used grade in mass produced goods but they don’t last like “real” leather goods should. 

Bonded or Split Leather

What is Bonded Leather? This is the lowest grade of “leather” and is the cheapest junk you can buy. It’s a composite of leather scraps, dust, and shavings that has been bonded together with glues and presses and textured to look like leather. This can be labeled “real leather,” but don’t be fooled, it typically falls apart quickly with use.

Final Thoughts

When you are looking to purchase a leather good, the leather type makes a big difference. Full grain leather might cost more upfront, but it will last the longest. Genuine leather will cost a lot less, but it will break down after just a few years of use. At Windy Raven, we only use full grain leather because we are dedicated to building heirloom goods that are made to last.