Of course, we all know that leather has many different types. With each of these types comes varying strengths, durability, and overall quality. To name a few, there are full-grain leather, top-grain leather, and genuine leather. Knowing the different types of leather is important whenever you consider buying one. Knowing their different qualities will also make it easier to choose which to buy. In this article, we will be focusing on a very common type of leather. It is the type of leather that you see in most leather products in stores and malls. This leather can be on shoes, belts, and even wallets. They call this leather Genuine Leather. What is genuine leather and how is it different from other types of leather? What the advantages and disadvantages of genuine leather? Let us have a look! Key Takeaways Genuine leather, while real leather, is of lower quality compared to full-grain and top-grain leather but offers an affordable alternative for leather products. The manufacturing process involves corrective treatments that affect the leather's natural qualities but create a uniform appearance. Price point is the main advantage of genuine leather, making leather products accessible to more consumers. Proper care and maintenance can extend the life of genuine leather products despite their lower quality. Understanding leather grades and types is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions and avoiding overpaying for lower-quality leather. What Does "Genuine Leather" Really Mean? You are at the department store, you take a look at a leather belt, leather shoes, leather furniture, leather sofa, or even a sleek-looking leather jacket. Taking a closer look, you see right on the leather it says "genuine leather" or "made with genuine leather". You look at the price and it's cheap too! Buying a genuine leather product sound like a great deal right? However, we are sorry to burst your bubble, but this leather is not the best of the best. Nor is it a great leather. We do however want to set the record straight. If you are looking for real leather then you are on the right track. Genuine leather is indeed real leather. This means that the material comes from real animal skin or that there is some kind of leather in the material. While its quality comes nowhere near full-grain leather or top-grain leather, it is still from real animal skin. Confused? Continue to read this article to know more about this fascinating leather. How is Genuine Leather Made? From the get-go, we must accept the fact that genuine leather is not as strong when comparing with full grain or top grain leather. While it does come from real animal hide, it does not come from the best parts of the hide. The reason lies behind or underneath the animal hide. The hide has many layers, each layer with different qualities. The strongest and toughest belong to the outermost layer of the skin. This is where the natural grain is. Oftentimes, the skin may be too tough and too thick to work with. Leather artisans, therefore, split the leather into layers. Of course, the outermost layer will still be the strongest and toughest. The layer underneath it is what we call "top-grain". And likewise what is beneath it will have lower quality like suede or nubuck. Making genuine leather can be tricky. Most of the time it comes from split leather, usually from the intermediate layers. For example, are those between top grain and suede. However, any layer of the hide can be turned into genuine leather. That is what makes this type of leather unique. These different layers and pieces of leather go through a correcting process or treatment. Usually because of imperfections on the outer layer of the skin. Hence why genuine leather is sometimes referred to as corrected leather. This will give the leather a more uniform appearance. It usually goes through the process of sanding or buffing to remove any impurities. The leather is then dyed or spray painted to finish its look. This process however changes and alters many of the preferable qualities of leather. It is therefore the reason why it is inferior to full grain and top grain. Quality of Genuine Leather The good thing about this leather is that it is leather. Or to say it correctly, it is real leather. Real and genuine leather may sound the same but they have different meanings. Real means that it comes from animal skin. Genuine on the other hand refers to the type of leather. Of the various types of leather, it is at the bottom of the list when it comes to quality. In comparison to full-grain leather and top grain leather, it is definitely an inferior product. It is not as strong nor as durable. Therefore its longevity is questionable. It is likewise not as strong against wear and tear. This leather however may give off a strong first impression because of its uniform leather appearance. However, if you are looking for high-quality and long-lasting leather, this is not the best choice. The Appearance of Genuine Leather Leather is not only great for its strength and durability. Many consider owning leather because of its great appearance. The appearance will depend on the type of leather. For example, top-grain leather has a refined and uniform look, like the leather we usually see. Full-grain leather on the other hand develops a beautiful appearance called the patina. While suede and nubuck have a fuzzy appearance, that is velvety to touch. What does genuine leather look like? Perception vs Reality Genuine leather will typically look like top grain leather. It will have a very uniform and smooth appearance. However, genuine leather may come in a variety of appearances depending on how it is manufactured. You can therefore say that this type of leather has no consistent appearance. It is therefore important to know how to identify what is genuine leather and what is not. Because while it looks like top grain leather, in reality, it is not. It is inferior in quality to what top grain leather looks like. However, if you have no problems with quality then this type of leather is a great choice. Uses and Applications What Products is Genuine Leather Used For? Genuine leather has become a catch-all term for non-high grade leather. Amazingly there is a diversity of uses for this fascinating leather. Likewise, there is a wide selection of products that comes from this type of leather. From purses to shoes, leather bag, briefcases and, even belts, all of these may come from genuine leather. What all of these products have in common is the quality. Understandably, you won't find them in high-end leather retail stores. Rather you will commonly find them in department stores, malls, or stores that sell cheap shoes. However, the different uses of this type of leather are not just to shoes, bags, etc. Advantages and Disadvantages What are the Advantages of Genuine Leather? To be fair, just because genuine leather is inferior does not mean it has no advantages of its own. In comparison to full-grain leather, top grain leather, suede, etc., there are quite a few areas that genuine leather shines. The best example would be on the price. Genuine leather is cheaper, it is affordable. When comparing it with other types of leather, especially with full-grain leather, a huge difference in price is clear. Another advantage is how the leather looks and feels. For those who do not want to invest in high-quality, high-end leather but still have the same amazing leather aesthetic. It is also easy to care for and maintain. Although it does not last long, proper care will extend its life. What are the Disadvantages of Genuine Leather? Obviously, this type of leather belongs on the lower side of the list. In strength, durability, and overall quality, it is inferior. Likewise, time, different elements, and frequent use will wear and tear the leather down. You may notice that cracks and stretch marks will eventually appear. The biggest disadvantage however does not come with the leather itself. Uninformed or uneducated consumers may easily be tricked into buying low-quality leather at a high price. This is not alarming since genuine leather and top grain leather look alike. It is, therefore, best to read on how to identify leather before dishonest sellers overcharge you for it. Understanding Leather Grades and Types Different types of leather over different characteristics. Whether on strength, durability, toughness, appearance, texture, etc. They are often graded according to their quality. Understanding the different grades of leather is important especially when you consider buying one for yourself. How is Leather Graded? Grading typically starts with the rawhide or animal skin. The grading will depend on the quality of the animal skin and how it has been split. This is important especially for tanneries who process the skin into leather. Knowing exactly the quality of leather that they are receiving and working with is important for consistency in quality. There are usually inspectors who grade the rawhides. They particularly look for imperfections on the skin. Imperfections such as holes, deep cuts, scars, large abrasions, and discoloration. They will also look at any machine damage from skinning the process or any remaining hair on the skin. Grain inconsistencies are also a factor in grading. Surface treatment and how the tanning process goes is also a factor in grading. For example, whether or not the skin has gone through sanding or buffing. Or whether the skin goes through vegetable tanning or chromium tanning or aniline leather. Conclusively, the leather is graded after the final product is presented and this creates the various leather grades. Types of Leather Type of Leather Description Full-Grain Leather The highest quality leather, containing the outer layer of the hide with strong fibers. It is durable, tough, and full of imperfections due to the lack of sanding or buffing. Develops a patina, giving a vintage leather look. Top-Grain Leather Similar to full-grain but with the top layer sanded or buffed to remove imperfections. Less durable and weaker than full-grain but softer and more visually appealing with a uniform appearance. Bonded Leather Made from shredded leather scraps and fibers bonded together. Sometimes mixed with real and fake leather. Often called reconstituted, blended, or split-grain leather. Less durable and of lower quality. Corrected Grain Leather Animal skin that is sanded or buffed to remove imperfections such as scars and blemishes. Stamped with an artificial grain for a more refined appearance. Often considered similar to genuine leather. Patent Leather Shiny and smooth leather made through a finishing process. Its glossy surface gives it a refined look. Often used for products requiring precision, like shoes and watches. PU Leather Polyurethane leather is synthetic and does not come from animals. It mimics real leather but is less durable. Marketed as Vegan Leather due to its cruelty-free production process. Different types of leather give us different qualities of leather. Here are a few of the different types of leather. Full-grain leather Most consider full-grain at the highest quality leather. This type of leather contains the outer layer of the hide or as many refer to as the "grain". The grain contains most of the strong fibers of the animal skin. This is therefore the reason why full-grain is strong and durable because of the fibers. It does however make the leather tough. Moreover, full-grain is full of imperfection because of the grain. These imperfections however are deliberate since full-grain does not go through the sanding or buffing process. It does develop a patina which gives off that vintage leather look. Top-grain leather Top-grain is similar to the full-grain except for the top layer of the skin that goes through sanding or buffing to remove any imperfections. Removing the grain will also affect the overall quality of the leather. It is less durable and weaker than full-grain but is still high-quality leather. Moreover, top-grain has a more refined look in comparison to full grain. It is therefore more visually appealing since has a uniform appearance. It is also softer than full-grain because the grain is out of the picture. Bonded leather Bonded leather a mix of different kinds of leather that are attached to each other. The materials are often from shredded leather scraps and leather fibers. They are held together by bonding materials that unify them into a singular fabric. Bonded leather is sometimes a mix of real leather and fake leather. Many call it reconstituted leather because it comes from scraps. Sometimes referred to as blended or split grain leather as well. Corrected Grain Leather This type of leather is very similar if not the same to genuine leather. In that, the animal skin goes through the same correcting process of sanding or buffing. The sanded layer is then given an artificial grain to make it appear genuine. Moreover, it got its name because of the process which is to correct any imperfections on the bare skin. Imperfections such as scars, bug bites, and blemishes. Removing that layer means to correct the leather thus its name. It is then stamped with a fake grain. Patent Leather Bonded leather a mix of different kinds of leather that are attached to each other. The materials are often from shredded leather scraps and leather fibers. They are held together by bonding materials that unify them into a singular fabric. Bonded leather is sometimes a mix of real leather and fake leather. Many call it reconstituted leather because it comes from scraps. Sometimes referred to as blended leather as well. PU Leather PU leather or Polyurethane leather is fake leather. It does not come from animal skin but an imitation of it. It has often had a leather look but sometimes has a synthetic feel to it. PU leather is also not as strong nor as durable as real leather. However, it does have the advantage of not involving any animals in the process. It is often marketed as Vegan Leather. Making Informed Purchasing Decisions Price vs. Quality - Full Grain Leather or Genuine Leather? In buying leather there is always this common dilemma. Risk a lower quality leather for a cheaper and more affordable price or buy a higher quality leather for a much steeper price. There is always the temptation to buy something cheaper and affordable, especially when leather looks high-end. However, taking a risk on quality for the price might not always be the best decision. Investing in very expensive leather is not always wise either. While great quality, such as strength and durability can be great selling points, prices often discourage buyers. Ultimately, you will ask yourself one question: "is it worth it?" Make an Informed Decision Many consider purchasing leather as an investment, and there will always be risks. That is why it is important to make an informed decision before buying one. To make the most out of your purchase it is important to know what you are looking for. There are many things to consider whenever you buy leather. First should be the price. Of course, you can spend daydreaming of the highest quality but you cannot even afford it. Look for the types of leather that are within your range. Next, is to look for the type that you want. Always consider the risk of quality and price. It is also important to know how to identify the different types of leather. Mostly to avoid any scams or overcharging. There are many ways to identify leather, the most common way is to use your sense. Have a look at the leather, feel it, and even take a whiff at it. You may also check the label whether it is made with genuine leather or polyurethane. Care and Maintenance How To Care For Genuine Leather Knowing how to take care of leather is very important. Whether you have high-quality full grain or top grain leather or low-quality genuine leather you need to take care of it. Proper care and maintenance will not only keep the leather clean but extend its life. This is true even for low-quality leather. And because it is susceptible to wear and tear, proper care and maintenance are very important. Luckily genuine leather is very easy to clean and maintain. Giving the leather a fair chance to extend its life. Cleaning it simply requires a damp cloth to wipe down any dust, dirt, and grime. Because it is so easy to clean and maintain you can also do it regularly, especially when you are in a dusty area. No matter how easy it is to clean always wipe it down gently to avoid damaging the leather. It is also important to remember to use a damp cloth. Do not use a wet cloth and do not submerge it in water. Make sure to wipe it dry afterward. Another way to take care of genuine leather is to polish it. Polishing it moisturizes the leather to keep it from drying and cracking. You can also apply leather conditioners or creams to your genuine leather. Conditioners nourish the leather and also prevent it from cracking or drying out. Unlike leather polish, leather conditioners will not give the leather a shine. However, it will give your leather more protection. How to Repair Damaged Genuine Leather Repairing damaged genuine leather can be a rewarding process, especially when you see how a little effort can restore its original beauty. The first step is to thoroughly clean the affected area with a mild soap solution, ensuring that any dirt or grime are removed. Once dry, assess the type of damage you are dealing with—be it scratches, scuffs, or tears. For minor scratches, applying a leather conditioner can help hydrate the material and reduce the visibility of these imperfections. In cases of deeper scratches or cuts, using a leather repair kit is advisable; these kits typically contain adhesive, color matching compounds, and fine tools for blending repairs seamlessly into the leather. Always remember to test any products on a hidden section first to ensure compatibility. Lastly, after completing repairs, applying a protective leather cream can help shield against future damage, keeping your genuine leather looking stunning for years to come. Protecting Genuine Leather from Sunlight and Heat Understanding the various types of leather and their proper care is essential for maintaining leather products. Real leather and genuine leather, including full-grain leather and top-grain leather, require specific attention to preserve their natural properties and exceptional durability. Protecting these high-quality leather items from sunlight and heat is crucial to ensure their longevity and aesthetic appeal. The natural grain patterns and authentic leather characteristics can be compromised when exposed to harsh conditions. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the leather to fade, dry out, and ultimately crack, affecting its appearance over time. To shield your leather items, such as leather furniture, leather jackets, and leather bags, consider placing them in shaded areas or using protective covers when not in use. This straightforward technique helps maintain the consistent appearance and superior quality of the material. Additionally, it's important to maintain a stable room temperature to prevent extreme fluctuations that could damage the material. The outer layer of genuine cowhide leather is particularly susceptible to environmental consequences. Using a leather conditioner and leather polish periodically can help in maintaining flexibility and moisture, providing a barrier against drying effects. Clean the surface with a damp cloth regularly to maintain its smooth texture and natural grain. By taking these simple steps in the proper care of your leather products, you can preserve their quality and develop a beautiful leather patina over time. Whether you're caring for dress shoes, utility belts, or a leather handbag, these maintenance practices will help ensure your genuine leather products maintain their attractive appearance for years to come. Frequently Asked Questions What Is Genuine Leather? Genuine leather is real leather made from animal hide, typically from the intermediate layers of the skin. While it is authentic leather, it's considered a lower grade compared to full-grain and top-grain leather, often made from split leather and treated with various corrective processes. How Does Genuine Leather Compare To Other Types? Genuine leather is at the lower end of the leather quality spectrum. While it's real leather, it's inferior to full-grain and top-grain leather in terms of durability, strength, and longevity. However, it's more affordable and still provides the aesthetic appeal of leather. How Is Genuine Leather Made? Genuine leather is made from split leather layers, usually from intermediate sections of the hide. It undergoes corrective processes including sanding, buffing, and dying to achieve a uniform appearance and remove imperfections. How Should I Care For Genuine Leather? Care for genuine leather by regularly wiping it with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. Use leather conditioners or creams to prevent drying and cracking. Avoid submerging in water and always dry thoroughly after cleaning. What Are The Main Uses Of Genuine Leather? Genuine leather is commonly used in various everyday products including shoes, belts, wallets, purses, and briefcases. It's typically found in department stores and mall retailers rather than high-end leather shops. Conclusion While genuine leather may not offer the premium quality of full-grain or top-grain leather, it serves as a practical and affordable option for consumers seeking leather products. By understanding its characteristics, limitations, and proper care requirements, buyers can make informed decisions and maintain their genuine leather items effectively. The key is to align expectations with the product's quality level and price point, ensuring satisfaction with the purchase.

If you own a laptop, leather laptop bags are one of the best bags money can buy. While there are ordinary laptop bags such as tote bags, messenger bags, and briefcases, nothing beats leather. However, honestly speaking, choosing the perfect leather laptop bag is not an easy task. You might face certain dilemmas due to the variety of choices. You might want to think whether you like a leather messenger bag, a leather briefcase, a leather backpack, and so on. There are just that many types of leather bags. There is also the question of which leather to choose. Do you want your leather laptop bag to be genuine leather only? Or do you want the top grain leather or even better full-grain? And of course size matters! The size of your laptop will also dictate the choice you make. Nonetheless, choosing the right leather laptop bag will be a matter of preference. However, we at Steel Horse Leather Co. will do our best to help you make your choice. And to make your choice easier, we have prepared a list of the best leather laptop bags for men in 2025 at the end. Key Takeaways Quality matters: Full-grain leather offers the best durability and longevity, while top-grain and genuine leather provide more affordable alternatives with different benefits. Proper sizing is crucial: Choose a bag that matches your laptop's dimensions to ensure proper fit and protection. Multiple styles are available: From briefcases to backpacks, each style serves different needs and occasions while maintaining professional appearance. Protection features are essential: Look for padded compartments, water resistance, and proper organization options to keep your laptop safe. Consider usage context: Your choice should reflect your lifestyle, whether you need it for business travel, daily commuting, or casual use. Understanding Leather Laptop Bags A leather laptop bag is any leather bag that can house a laptop. A laptop bag however will have special compartments to store the laptop. It may also have multiple compartments to store your computer accessories. Furthermore, a leather laptop bag is designed to protect your laptop against damage, dirt, and water. It will have certain features such as padded compartments to keep your laptop safe and secure. Benefits of Leather Laptop Bags There are many benefits to owning a leather laptop bag. Here are the top 3 benefits that will get you interested. First is that leather laptop bags are beautiful and fashionable to look at. Whether you are in a formal or corporate setting, a leather bag will fit in no matter what. Next is that leather is a very durable material. It is strong, however, it is not too stiff that it feels like you are carrying a box. Leather is sturdy yet flexible at the same time. Something that will come in handy, especially when you want to store it in no tight spaces. Finally, leather laptop bags offer great protection to your laptop. Inside a leather laptop bag, your laptop is more safe and secure. This is because it has a dedicated laptop compartment that will hold your laptop in place. Most of these laptop compartments also have padding in them. The padding will help protect your laptop from bumping into other things inside the bag. Or even those from the outside. Leather is also water-resistant. While too much water will ruin the surface of the leather, it will keep your laptop dry inside. Types of Leather Laptop Bags Basically, a laptop bag is any bag where your laptop can fit. However, if we are to be strict about it, there are bags that are specifically made for laptops. Nevertheless, modern bag designs now cater to dedicated laptop storage. Here are different types of leather laptop bags. While their main purpose is to provide store laptops safely inside, they have their differences and advantages. While they might not be designer laptop bags, the quality of the construction and leather means they will last far longer. Leather Messenger Bags If you are thinking of purchasing a leather messenger bag then you are on the right track. Messenger bags are perfect as laptop bags. This is mainly because of their shape and design. You may even say that the messenger bag is built specifically for laptops. Thus, this is the reason why it is a popular laptop bag, especially leather messenger bags. This is because leather bags are strong and versatile. They are perfect for those who have large and heavy laptops, like those for gaming. Messenger bags however are not primarily made for laptops. As its name would suggest, messenger bags are used to carry and deliver articles and other items. Thus messenger bags are also known as courier bags. These days, however, a messenger bag is more than just for delivering items. Today, the messenger bag is popular with commuters and students as well. While it is typically worn close to the body, some prefer to loosen the straps a bit and let it hang down the hips like a sling bag. It is popular especially to students since it is easier to place and remove things such as textbooks and laptops. A messenger bag also has a fashionable casual look in comparison to a briefcase. Leather Briefcases Picking up where we just left off, a messenger bag is indeed casual. While a leather briefcase screams "professional" even just by hearing the word "briefcase". Typically, lawyers use the briefcase to carry case briefs to the court, and hence the name "brief" - case. Businessmen, office workers, and other white-collar professionals also use the briefcase for carrying their important documents around. But nevertheless, the briefcase is a great candidate for a leather laptop bag. Especially in this day and age where everything is digital. Carrying a laptop inside a briefcase instead of heaps of paper has become the new normal. The briefcase, in shape and size, is similar to the messenger bag. Although unlike the messenger bag, the briefcase has a rigid box-like structure. Giving it a more formal look and make you look more respectable. It typically has only one main internal space while some have dividers, subsections, and pockets for a tidier organization. Leather Backpacks and Shoulder Bags It is also one of the most versatile bags there is. Its design is primarily for the convenience and comfort of the wearer. It has a structureless form which makes the backpack a bag for almost any activity. Leather laptop bags are likewise great as a leather laptop bag. Modern designs of leather backpacks now have dedicated laptop compartments. These compartments rest nearest to the back of the wearer. It is also heavily padded on the backside, to protect the laptop from bumping into the wearer's back. Leather backpacks are great because anybody can use them anytime anywhere. It is popular especially for students who are always racing around the university campus. Imagine running around with a briefcase or messenger bag that has a laptop with it. It is either gonna swing wildly or your arms will get tired from carrying it. With a leather backpack, you can run around comfortably while your laptop rests securely on your back. Leather Shoulder Bags While most shoulder bags are small, there are some that are large enough to store a laptop. There may sometimes be confusion between shoulder bags vs tote bags and shoulder bags vs messenger bags. Nonetheless, they will still be used in a similar way. Leather Duffel Bags Leather duffel bags are mostly known for travel. Whether you are going on a quick weekender or a business trip the duffel bag will not let you down. It is a bag meant to store a lot of things, including your laptop! However, unlike messenger bags and briefcases, not all duffel bags are meant to house a laptop. A typical duffel bag is cylindrical in shape. Moreover, a duffel bag will have a loose structure. With its shape and loose structure, it is not very wise to store your laptop in there. If you are planning to purchase a duffel bag that doubles as a leather laptop bag, down get your hopes down. There are indeed variations of duffel bag designs that house laptops. These duffel bags have a rectangular box-type structure similar to messenger bags. Leather Tote Bags Another popular leather laptop bag is the leather tote bag. A Laptop tote is strong, durable, and perfect for carrying laptops of all sizes. Unlike the shoulder bag, a tote bag has plenty of storage space. Moreover, leather tote bags also offer external water protection, unlike other tote bags which are made of cloth. Understanding Leather Quality and Types Another important thing to know when you want to purchase a leather laptop bag is the material. Of course, if you are looking for leather laptop bags, then you may want to know a thing or two about leather. Like where does leather come from? Are there different kinds of leather? And most importantly, what leather to buy and what not to buy. Origin of Leather First off, where does leather come from? Leather, or more specifically real leather, is an organic material. It is animal skin that has gone through the process of molecular change. Typically, leather comes from either cowhide or horse skin. Other notable animal skins are from rabbits, foxes, pigs, crocodiles, and even kangaroos and stingrays. Turning animal skin into leather is a very time-consuming process. It requires skill, hard work, and most importantly, patience. Types of Leather Quality Type Description Full Grain Leather The strongest and most durable type of leather due to the microfibers in the natural grain of the topmost layer of animal skin. Only the highest quality animal skins are used, free of scars and blemishes. Imperfections are removed by sanding, but this can weaken the fibers in the natural grain. Full-grain leather is unique, strong, and highly durable. Top Grain Leather The second highest quality leather, created by splitting, sanding, or buffing the natural grain to remove imperfections. It has a uniform and refined appearance but is less strong and durable than full-grain leather. Top grain leather is more flexible, easier to work with, and less expensive, making it a popular choice. Genuine Leather The lowest quality among the three types, made from scraps of full grain and top grain leather. While it is real leather, it lacks the strength and durability of the higher-quality types. Genuine leather is affordable, readily available, and still better than fake leather, making it a cost-effective option for some uses. Full Grain Leather It is by far the strongest and most durable type of leather out there. Its strength and durability are because of the microfibers found all over the topmost layer of the animal skin. The topmost layer being the natural grain. Not all animal skins will be turned into full grain leather. This is because full-grain leather requires only the highest quality of animal skin. More often than not, animal skins will have some scars, blemishes, and other marks. While these imperfections make full-grain leather unique, some of them do not make the cut. To remove these imperfections, the topmost layer will be sanded down. Sanding the top layer will produce a fresh top surface, free of any imperfections. Additionally, some animal skins are too thick to handle and therefore undergo splitting. It does however remove the strong fibers found on the natural grain. Top Grain Leather Next is the second highest quality leather, top grain leather. To avoid confusion, the top grain is not the topmost layer of the animal skin, it is the natural grain. Top grain leather is the byproduct of splitting, sanding, and/or buffing leather. By removing the natural grain you get the top grain leather. Top grain also has a pristine look since all the imperfections found on the natural grain were removed. This also makes the leather look uniform and refined. Top grain leather however is not as strong and durable as full-grain leather. It is the downside when removing the natural grain. The leather's longevity is likewise affected. Top grain however leather is more flexible and easier to work with. Since it is easier to work with, its manufacturing cost is also lower and therefore costs less. Genuine Leather Last and certainly the least among the three in quality is genuine leather. Genuine leather is still made of animal skin therefore it is still organic. It is however from different leather scraps from either top grain or full grain or even both. Think of it as some sort of a Frankenstein leather. Moreover, since it has the lowest quality, it is not as strong nor is it as durable when comparing it to the other two. It is still real leather and it is still better than fake leather. The great thing about genuine leather is that it is affordable. Its prices are significantly lower in comparison to even top grain leather. Likewise, genuine leather is readily available, unlike full-grain leather. What Type of Leather to Choose Among the three types of leather above, obviously, the best is the full-grain leather. Next is top grain leather then genuine leather. It does not mean however that the other two are bad choices. They do have certain qualities to them that the full-grain leather does not have. If you are looking for a cheap bag most certain than not, full-grain leather will be out of the list. These leathers also have different appearances. One has full of imperfections while the others look more uniform and refined. Nonetheless, these three types of leather are of good quality for leather laptop bags. What Type of Leather to Avoid In this age of technological advancement, it is pretty easy to make replicas of other things. Like faux leather, which imitates real leather. These imitations however are not as strong and as durable. They also crack and peel more than real leather. Faux leather is indeed significantly inferior. Faux leather is made out of synthetic materials. There are two types of faux leather. These are PU Leather and PVC Leather fabric. They are basically the same however with some slight differences in the combination of materials and finishes. Laptop Fit and Compartments When you are looking for the perfect laptop bag, you buy it because you want your laptop to be secure and protected from the inside. However, if your laptop is too big for the bag then it won't fit. Moreover, if your laptop is too small, it might move around inside and damage itself. You will want a bag with a compartment that your laptop can fit securely. You should therefore know beforehand how big your laptop is. Most laptop size will either be 13, 15, or 17 inches. You can measure your laptop with a tape measure. Measure it diagonally to get the full width. If your laptop is smaller than 13 inches you may want to purchase a laptop sleeve or case. A laptop sleeve will protect your laptop if it ever moves around on the inside. A padded laptop sleeve will be even better since it offers more protection. Laptop sleeves are also available for any laptop size. This however is merely optional. These days most leather laptop bags will have varying sizes. A good example is the laptop backpacks. Most laptop backpacks will have an available size for any laptop size. So whether you have a 13, 14 15, 16, or 17-inch laptop there might just be a backpack available for you. This is to cater to any laptop size that a person may have. It will also give them more options to choose from. It is also important to consider the pockets that are included. Does it have a zippered pocket for a small accessory, or does it come with a nonpadded or padded laptop sleeve? Is there a separate compartment for extra items or a side pouch for your water bottle? These are important aspects to consider in your search for the perfect laptop bag. Top 10 Best Leather Laptop Bags Best Leather Cross Body Bags - Leather Laptop Messenger Bags These are the best leather laptop messenger bags and briefcases for men in 2025. Whether you are looking for a casual or professional style, this selection has it covered. The Welch Briefcase A classy yet high functioning leather briefcase and messenger bag in one. It is a mature style perfect for both casual and professional occasions. The briefcase can house a laptop of up to 14 inches. Furthermore, it is made of high-quality leather, making it sturdy and secure inside and out, acting as the perfect laptop case. It also comes with a sturdy crossbody strap that makes it the perfect laptop bag for hands-free carrying. This is one laptop messenger bag that will last for a long time and age with a beautiful patina. The Viggo Briefcase The Viggo briefcase is sleek and classy. It is a laptop briefcase designed to blend within the corporate environment. It is made only of the highest quality leather. Making it a dependable and long-lasting laptop messenger bag. It also has an efficient and spacious interior design where you can easily and securely store at a laptop of up to 14 inches. The Viggo Briefcase, the perfect laptop briefcase for all your work-related needs. The Vali Backpack This handmade vintage leather is backpack fit for your daily needs. The Vali has a large main compartment that can fit up to a laptop of 15 inches with more space to spare. The backpack is secure and safe yet easy to access. The straps are designed to strategically distribute the weight on the shoulder evenly. It is materials are comfortable and made to last for a very long time. The Shelby Backpack A bag with a sophisticated style that provides space with its many compartments. It has a pouch and separate compartment for every possible item. Its main compartment can house a laptop of up to 17 inches. Big space. It has a padded laptop compartment and a YKK zipper to keep your laptop safe and secure. Most importantly, it is made out of crazy horse leather, it is durable, lightweight, and built to last for a very long time. Best Leather Laptop Bags - Handmade Leather Duffel Bags Only the best of the best leather laptop duffel bags. Perfect for business trips and quick getaways. These bags have a large capacity to fit your laptop and much more. They make for the perfect piece of carry-on luggage. The Bjarke Weekender Made of high-quality leather, this handcrafted leather bag is a must for frequent travelers who have to carry their laptops everywhere. It has a functional and minimalist aesthetic. It is durable and sturdy, perfect for travel. It is also very spacious with dedicated laptop storage that can fit a laptop of up to 15 inches. It also has an interior zippered pocket and several small item sleeves that can carry any accessory. The included crossbody strap is perfect for travel. The Eira Duffle Bag The Eira Duffel Bag is a classy leather bag that comes with extra space. Its capacity allows it to house a laptop or iPad up to the size of 15 inches in a dedicated laptop compartment. Despite its size, it is a light yet durable bag since it is made from crazy horse leather. It also comes with optional shoulder straps, which are removable and adjustable. The Endre Weekender One of our best selling bags, the Endre Weekender. This beautiful bag has a smooth and stylish finish. It is sturdy and durable but also light and easy to carry. The Endre is fitted with a YKK zipper and a soft, comfortable crossbody strap for added comfort. It has a spacious interior with a dedicated laptop sleeve built to fit laptops of up to 15 inches. Likewise, this duffel bag also has 3 small object pockets and a separate compartment for shoes. It makes for the perfect travel accessory. What more could you ever ask for on a leather duffel bag? Environmental Impact of Leather Bags Whether it is real leather or fake leather, we have to face each one's environmental impacts. One of the environmental impacts caused by manufacturing real leather is the animal killings. Such is considered cruel that many have already expressed their dissent against such practices. Many therefore turn to the alternative. That alternative being faux or vegan leather. The reason why fake leather is also called vegan leather is that it is not made from any animal skin. It uses 100% synthetic materials. While many accept this as an alternative to animal cruelty, it does however still produce adverse effects on the environment. Manufacturing fake leather entails chemical waste. According to sources, these wastes are often dumped improperly and cause water pollution. If these facts are true, and indeed they are, can leather be environmentally friendly? The answer may not be a resounding yes, but we can lessen the impact it makes. For example, practicing vegetable tanning instead of chrome tanning. Vegetable tanning uses organic and biodegradable materials to tan the leather. It does not produce any chemical waste, unlike chrome tanning. Another good example is to innovate or be more responsible for how manufacturers dispose of chemical waste. Style and Look - Choosing the Best Leather Laptop Bag Of course, if you are planning to buy a leather laptop bag then you want one that fits your style. If you are going for something casual, then vintage style leather is perfect for you. Vintage style gives off that Indiana Jones vibes. It makes you look laid back and cool for owning something that looks like a piece of history. On the other hand, if you are going for a more professional look, a modern leather style is what you need. It has a sleek design with a more uniform and refined look. It's something that is perfect for someone who wants to be taken seriously. Straps are also an important factor in style. Whether you wear the bag hanging on one shoulder, crossbody, or backpack style. Or if you don't want to wear it at all, and carry it briefcase-style. Honestly speaking, a leather bag will look good in any style or look. Whether you are trying to look casual or professional leather will fit right in. Travel Considerations Does a Leather Laptop Bag Count as a Carry On? A frequently asked question is whether a leather laptop bag count as a carry on or a personal item. A safe answer is that it depends on the size of your bag. While most believe that if your bag fits under the seat in front of you then you consider it a personal item. There are however specific dimensions for carry-on and personal items. These dimensions however will differ from airline to airline. For example, according to United Airlines, the answer will depend on the size of your bag. According to their standards, the maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 9 x 14 x 22 inches. Whereas the maximum dimensions for your personal items are 9 x 10 x 17 inches. It will however depend on the airlines. If the bags you carry exceed the maximum then almost always they will be carry-ons. However, laptop bags, most of the time are treated as personal items only. This is because laptop bag is only as big as the laptop they store. Most of the time the dimensions of the laptop do not exceed the limit. They are rarely treated as carry-ons. Regardless, most airlines will allow the bag as long as it fits under the seat in front and/or the overhead storage. Bags such as duffel and backpacks depending on their size are often treated as carry-ons. Why Trust Our Leather Craftsmanship Expertise? At Steel Horse Leather, our deep understanding of leather craftsmanship comes from years of dedicated artisanal experience and a passionate commitment to quality. Our master craftsmen have spent decades perfecting their skills in traditional leatherworking methods, ensuring that every laptop bag we create meets the highest standards of durability and elegance. This expertise allows us to provide not just products, but comprehensive insights into leather quality, construction, and care that you can trust. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond mere craftsmanship. We've developed extensive knowledge through our rigorous vetting process of leather suppliers and tanneries worldwide. This hands-on experience with various leather types and tanning methods has given us unique insights into the characteristics and performance of different leather qualities - from full-grain to top-grain and genuine leather. We understand not just how to work with leather, but also how different leather types perform in real-world conditions, making our recommendations for laptop bags particularly valuable. What sets us apart is our holistic approach to leather bag manufacturing. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality requirements, particularly for electronic device protection. Our team's expertise in leather selection, treatment, and construction techniques ensures that each laptop bag we recommend or produce offers the perfect balance of protection, durability, and style. This knowledge comes from years of working directly with premium leather materials and understanding how they interact with modern technology needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Are The Different Types Of Leather Quality Available? There are several types of leather quality available when considering leather products. Full-grain leather (highest quality with natural texture and imperfections) is made from the finest materials, top-grain leather (second-highest quality with refined appearance), and genuine leather (made from quality raw leather scraps). High-quality leather like full-grain leather is the most durable but also the most expensive option, while genuine leather offers more reasonable prices. How Do I Choose The Right Size For My Laptop Bag? When selecting a leather laptop bag, measure your laptop diagonally to determine its size (typically 13, 15, or 17 inches), and choose a bag with padded compartments that matches these dimensions. Consider getting a padded laptop sleeve for additional protection if your laptop is smaller than the bag's compartment. Look for features like organizational pockets, external pockets, and internal pockets for daily essentials. A removable shoulder strap or adjustable shoulder strap, along with padded straps, can provide comfort during business travel. What Type Of Leather Bag Is Best For Professional Settings? Leather briefcases and leather messenger bags are ideal for professional settings. A leather satchel or leather backpack with a slim profile can also work well. These handmade leather bags often feature attractive designs with zipper closure or magnetic closure options. Look for bags with plenty of space for everyday essentials, including slip pockets and a zippered pouch for important items. Are Leather Laptop Bags Allowed As Carry-On Items? Most laptop bags with a trolley sleeve are considered personal items rather than carry-ons, as they typically fit under airline seat dimensions. Their generous design includes ample space while preventing damage during travel. Standard personal item dimensions are approximately 9 x 10 x 17 inches, and many bags feature waterproof material or water-resistant properties. What Are The Main Benefits Of Choosing A Leather Laptop Bag? High-quality leather bags offer several advantages: aesthetic appeal suitable for any setting, exceptional durability as a popular material compared to synthetic materials, and superior protection through padded compartments and plenty of compartments. A detachable shoulder strap, comfortable shoulder strap, or crossbody strap options provide versatility, while exterior pockets and a compact handle offer convenient access to essential items. Conclusion Choosing the right leather laptop bag involves carefully considering various factors, including leather quality, size requirements, style preferences, and intended use. While the initial investment might be higher than synthetic alternatives, a well-chosen leather laptop bag offers superior protection, professional appearance, and lasting durability. By understanding these key aspects, you can make an informed decision that serves your needs for years to come.

We all know for a fact that leather is beautiful. Other than its unique patina, how do we turn leather into something equally mesmerizing? A technique that people use to give the leather a bit of style is tooling. Tooling leather is what you may commonly see on book covers, wallets, belts, holsters, and other leather goods. They are those fascinating detailed ornamental works that you see on leather. While almost all types of leather can be tooled, tooling leather is the best leather for the job. Let us get to know more about tooling, tooling leather, the process of tooling, and many more. Key Takeaways Vegetable-tanned leather is the best choice for tooling due to its workability and ability to hold detailed designs Proper moisture content is crucial for successful leather tooling - the leather must be appropriately cased before working Basic tooling can be accomplished with minimal tools, making it accessible for beginners Regular maintenance and protection from elements are essential for preserving tooled leather items The quality of tooled leather work depends on three factors: proper leather selection, appropriate tools, and skilled technique Historical Evolution of Tooling Leather The historical evolution of tooling leather can be traced back thousands of years, intertwining with the development of various cultures and their artisan skills. Initially, early civilizations utilized animal hides for practical purposes, such as shelter and clothing. Over time, skilled craftsmen began to recognize the potential of leather as a medium for artistry, leading to the refinement of techniques that are still in use today. Ancient Egyptians, for instance, created embossed and dyed leather goods, while the Romans honed their tooling techniques, producing intricate designs that adorned armor and accessories. As leatherworking spread across Europe, each region introduced its unique styles and motifs, influencing the diverse array of tooling methods seen in contemporary practices. Today, tooling leather is not only a representation of functional artistry but also a celebration of historical craftsmanship, bridging the gap between past traditions and modern design. Understanding Tooling Leather What exactly is tooling leather? To answer that questions we must first get a few things straight. We must first understand the difference between tooling and tooling leather. Tooling is the process of engraving or embellishing designs on leather. Tooling leather on the other hand is the leather that we use to make those beautiful designs. Think of tooling leather as the canvas. Conclusively, tooled leather is the leather that has gone through the tooling process or creative design. Types and Characteristics Going back to the question, tooling leather can be any leather available. However, they generally use vegetable-tanned leather. Of all the types of leather, why would they prefer vegetable tanned leather? The answer is quite simple. Unlike other methods of tanning, the vegetable tanning process produces leather that is a bit softer and easier to work with. Likewise, since you are trying to etch designs onto the leather, you would generally need softer leather. Besides vegetable tanned leather, there are also other types of leather that can be used as tooling leather. For example, you can use bridle and rawhide as substitutes. However, the final product will not be nearly as good as the vegetable-tanned leather. Thickness Variations Moreover, tooling leathers also come in different thicknesses. The thickness of the leather will vary from one project to another. For example, a belt will require a thicker cut of leather than a knife sheath or wallet. Likewise, different layers of leather can also be glued together to create thick leather. These are usually for designs that require more thickness than the normal cut. Comparison of Tooling Leather with Other Leathers When considering what is tooling leather, it's essential to understand how it compares with other types of leather. Tooling leather, which undergoes the natural tanning process known asvegetable tanning using natural tannins from tree bark, is specifically designed for creating intricate designs and detailed designs. Unlike chrome-tanned leather processed with chromium salts, which produces soft leather that's more pliable, high-quality tooling leather boasts a firmer texture and greater resistance to deformation during detailed work.Additionally, its ability to retain sharp impressions means that artisans and leather craft enthusiasts can achieve beautiful designs that stand the test of time. The art of leather tooling allows for both geometric designs and floral designs using essential tools like a swivel knife and stamping tools. In contrast, regular leather and chrome leather may prioritize soft touch and comfort over durability for carving, making them less suitable for leather projects requiring ornate details. Full-Grain Leather and Top-Grain Leather serve different purposes, but for leather tooling skills development, proper preparation of the leather surface is crucial.This versatile material is perfect for creating custom leather items such as leather wallets, leather belts, and decorative panels. With the wide array of leather working tools available and proper leather conditioner application, craftsmen can achieve a beautiful patina on their leather creations. Thus, for anyone engaged in the art of tooling leather, choosing the right piece of tooling leather is crucial to achieving the desired aesthetic appeal and functional outcomes in their leather crafting journey. Preparation and Working Process To create those beautiful designs and patterns we need to prepare the leather. While technically any leather can be tooled it does not produce the best result. This is because some types of leather are too stiff to cut with leather stamps and tools. Likewise, we would not want leather that is too soft, flexible, or bouncy that it erases the stamp impressions. What we need is a type of leather that is soft enough for cutting yet firm enough for stamping. This leather is vegetable-tanned leather. Moistening the Leather To work with vegetable tanned leather we must first prepare. The preparation process is pretty simple. In order for the leather to be workable, it needs to be moist. What better way to moisten leather than to use water. This process of moistening the leather is what we call casing. Wetting the leather will make the fibers swell and soften. This step is necessary for us to shape and manipulate the leather's surface. To moisten the leather we rub a damp sponge on both the flesh side and the grain side of the leather. It is important that we apply the water evenly as possible on both sides. When leather is moistened it will begin to return to its natural color so do not be alarmed. Moreover, we can only work with leather once it is moist or wet. If tooling is not yet complete while the leather is wet you can always repeat the steps to remoisten the leather. Leather Selection for Different Techniques Leather for tooling, carving, and engraving can be any type of leather. However, if we just use any type of leather for tooling and carving, the results will likely vary. Tooling needs to be done on leather that is soft enough to cut and carve, but firm enough for stamping. Vegetable leather is therefore what many consider the best leather for tooling and carving. It possesses the characteristics and quality that allow us to manipulate leather surface easily. Moreover, vegetable-tanned leather also maintains certain features even after a sharp object has been forced over it. Achieving Good Results To obtain good results there are certain things that need to be done. First, you must have the right leather for the job. While it is true that you can use other types of leather for tooling, vegetable-tanned leatherwork is considered to be the best. Moreover, it is easier to work with, especially for beginners. Next is to have the proper leather working tools. Without the proper leather tools, manipulating the leather's surface would be a very difficult task. It may not also turn out as great as you want it to be if you do not have the proper tools. There are various tools that we use in tooling leather. Each tool has a unique function that will affect the surface differently. Lastly, you must possess the proper skill and knowledge in tooling leather. You may have the right tooling leather and the right tools but if you do not know what you are doing then what is the point. Proper skill and knowledge are necessary, and so are experience and practice. In conclusion, to obtain good results, you must possess all three. Perfecting tooling takes time and practice. Enjoy the process and express yourself as much as you can on this beautiful canvas. Understanding Leather Engraving and Embossing Leather craft is not only a profession but can also be a hobby. For the untrained eye, it is sometimes difficult to tell the difference between leather engraving and leather embossing. For those who are not familiar with leather crafting, engraving and embossing may look the same. While it is true that they bring more life and character to the material, both, in a way, are different. Key Differences The main difference between engraving and embossing is the procedure. To get those beautiful patterns, embossing uses a machine called presses. The machine engraves a pattern on the leather by applying heat and pressure to the surface. Embossing is usually done if you want uniform designs on the leather. It is also widely used in mass processing because it is easier and faster. Embossing is, therefore, a mechanical way of leather crafting. For leather engraving, we use our hands. No machine, just tools, skill, and a lot of practice. Maybe a little bit of sweat here and there. Leather engraving is a long process in comparison to embossing. It takes time to perfect. Most of the time, its designs are left to the creativity of the craftsman. Unlike embossing where the pattern is predetermined. It may therefore come out as unique in a way. Leather engraving also offers great satisfaction once you master it. It, likewise, makes a great hobby! The Process of Leather Working To engage, tool, or carve a leather hide you will first need the right leather. The starting leather material that many generally use is "crust leather". It is usually a semi-finished full grain hide whose surface is still in the natural stage. At this stage, the hide or leather is perfect for engraving. Initial Preparation To start the process, the hide or leather needs to be moist. It is important to moisten the leather so that its fibers become ready for tooling. Moreover, it is only when the surface is moist where you can carve the leather. Once the leather dries out, it would be difficult to manipulate the leather's surface. You can, however, just re-apply water to the leather's surface from time to time, or for as long as the project takes. It is also important to remember that you must apply or moisten the surface as evenly as possible. We usually apply or moisten the surface by rubbing it with a damp sponge. Tools and Techniques Once the preparations are complete, you are now ready to engrave, tool, or carve the leather hide. There are different techniques that you can apply. Many patterns and textures are also available to carve on the grain side of the hide. However, you must have the proper tools to properly engrave, tool, or carve the leather. These tools are not that expensive. Likewise, there is no need for you to spend a fortune on tools. Just have the right tools for the right job and you will be fine. Some people only need a swivel knife, a background tool, and a hammer. Appearance and Characteristics Since we generally use vegetable tanned leather as tooling leather, its appearance will largely depend on the whole tanning process. Vegetable tanning uses natural tannins that come from leaves, branches, the bark of trees, and plants. This natural process of tanning produces natural earthy colors like browns, beiges, yellows, and even red. Vegetable tanning also produces a distinctive smell on the leather. The leather usually has a sweet, woody fragrance. Something that you normally associate with real leather. It also produces a unique set of shades and other nuances on the surface, making it look and feel genuine. Common Applications and Uses Since engraving, tooling, or carving leather is typically by hand, its use is more personal. Many treat tooling leather as an ornamental item for their personal collection. Since it is a labor-intensive process, it is generally expensive. Its price is also due to the use of high-quality leather necessary and equipment for tooling. Tooling leather has many uses. From shoes to bags, belts, holsters, life sheats, clutches, wallets, and many more. As long as you use the right leather, the right tools, and creativity, tooling leather will have infinite uses! For example, at Steel Horse Leather, we recently developed The Langley Backpack, which showcases the versatility of high-quality crazy horse leather. While this particular piece doesn't feature traditional tooling, it demonstrates how different leather working techniques can be combined to create functional art. The deep chocolate brown leather develops a unique patina over time, similar to tooled leather pieces, showing how different leather working approaches can achieve equally stunning results. During the development process, we carefully considered how the natural characteristics of the leather would enhance the bag's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Another prime example of tooling leather's versatility can be seen in our signature Dagny Weekender bag. During its development, our artisans carefully selected premium leather to ensure optimal tooling results. The intricate detailing on the bag's exterior demonstrates the perfect balance between functionality and artistic expression. Each interior pocket was thoughtfully designed and tooled to maintain both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The ultra-soft leather handle required particular attention during the tooling process to ensure it would maintain its comfort while developing that coveted patina over time. Pros and Cons of Tooling Leather Advantages The main advantage of tooling leather against other types of leather is that it is perfect for engraving, tooling, or carving leather hide. It is also the ideal leather for embossing designs on leather. Using other types of leather will not produce the best results. High-quality tooling leather on the other hand will produce edges that are sharper, clearer, and more well-defined. Moreover, since this type of leather is generally vegetable-tanned leather, it will develop a beautiful patina over the years. This type of leather is also strong and durable, and will typically last for a long period of time. Disadvantages The process of creating leather from the vegetable tanning process is slow and labor-intensive. It is also an expensive process. It likewise, requires a lot of time and a great deal of patience. Another disadvantage of tooling leather is its inconsistencies. Because it uses hides from different animals, its quality will differ greatly. Some may not be the same qualities as the other just because it comes from a different animal. Furthermore, there is no artificial protective agent coating on this form of leather. As a consequence, it's vulnerable to the elements. Caring for Tooling Leather Tooling leather is an ornamental item. It is personal and unique. It is likewise expensive. You wouldn't want anything as exquisite and expensive as tooling leather to deteriorate too easily. Even if the tooling is made of high-quality leather, it will need some tender loving care. Protection from Elements A big disadvantage when it comes to this type of leather is that it has no protective agent coating whatsoever. It is therefore vulnerable to the elements like water and the sun. It is best to avoid getting the leather wet. In case the leather does get wet, you can wipe it dry with a soft dry cloth. Allow it to dry in a cool place away from direct sunlight. Do not dry your leather by exposing it to heat or hot hair. Cleaning and Maintenance Of course, other than the elements, leather is vulnerable to dirt, dust, and grime. There are many ways to remove and clean them. The easiest method is to wipe it off with a damp cloth. You can also dampen the cloth with mild soap or baby shampoo. Be sure to wipe it dry after! However, since this leather has carvings on its surface, dirt, dust, and grime can get into difficult-to-reach places. Brushes are usually the right tool for the job. We recommend using animal hair brushes for cleaning. Brushes that have synthetic bristles tend to be stiff. We likewise recommend cleaning the leather at least once a week, especially if you use it often. Finally, add leather conditioner to the leather. This will nourish the fibers while also providing a protective coating. We suggest that you wax the leather on a regular basis if you want it to stay in good shape. Step-by-Step Guide to Tooling Leather We mention how leather tooling requires skill to do. However, it is a lot easier than you think. With the right tools, a little bit of guidance, and practice you can make beautiful leather carvings yourself! In fact, all you need is a few tools, vegetable tanned leather, a sponge, and some water. Essential Tools Once again, you do not need to spend a fortune on tools to tool leather. Especially if this is your first time or if you are new to tooling leather you might want to start small. You will essentially need a few tools. These essential tools are a swivel knife, a background tool, and a mallet or a hammer. A shader of some kind would also be a good tool to have. However, if you are not ready to invest in one or if there are none available there are alternatives. A spoon is an easiest and most common replacement. Detailed Tooling Process Step 1: Transfer Your Design to the Leather Before you actually transfer the design to the leather, you must first moisten the leather with your damp sponge. Once the leather is wet enough you can start your design. Generally, there are two methods to design the leather. The first method and probably the safest thing to do for newbies is to print out a design. Place the design on the leather ink-side up and trace the line with a stylus. A stylus is a special tool we use to trace the printout onto the leather. If there is none available you can always use a pencil or anything that will dent the surface of the leather. The second method is to freehand the design. You may either refer to a design on the internet or get creative. Make a custom design yourself. Be sure to get the leather wet so that it will leave a dent where you run your pencil or stylus. Step 2: Cut the Lines After the design is clearly indented on the leather it is time to use your swivel knife. Use the swivel knife and trace along with the design. You will actually cut the leather here wherever the bold lines and edges are. A swivel knife blade is sharp, control is very important. Make sure not to cut the leather all the way through. We recommend you cut it halfway through. First-timers or those who have not had enough practice tend to make shallow cuts. That is okay, however, shallows cuts usually end up looking flat in the end. At this point, your leather will look really nice with all those cuts and the design. However, this is just the second step. There are still a few things to do to make the leather more beautiful. Step 3: Bevel the Edges In this step, we will use a shader or a special beveling tool. However, a spoon is really great alternative. Use the spoon to bevel the edges that you want to stand out. This will add depth to the design and make it look even better. After beveling the cuts, we are more than halfway done. Step 4: Add Little Cutesy Stuff After the third step, the leather and your design will probably look like the final product. However, there are a few steps that will make the tooling leather look better. This step is not necessary and will require a specific tool for the job. If you have the tool available, then better. If you have none, it's okay, just move along to the next step. In this step, you will need a seeder. This tool makes little circles on the leather for added design. We usually use this to add "seeds" in plants or flower designs. Another tool that you may also use is a camouflage tool. this tool makes little dimple on the leather. Step 5: Fill in the Background The next step is fairly simple however it is time-consuming. This is also an essential step, so you can’t skip this out. Use your background tool and stamp down all the backgrounds on your design. This will make your design really stand out, so do not hold back on stamping it down. Step 6: Add Finishing Touches / Edits Take a look at what you have accomplished so far. Take a look at the design, get a closer look or take a step back and see the whole picture. Make finishing touches such as cutting, beveling, or stamping. Step 7: Finish the Leather Finally, is to add a finishing. You can either opt not to do this since it is not really a necessary step. However, you can always add a protective layer to your leather once you are done tooling. We suggest you condition the leather and really get in the cuts and edges. This will protect the leather, especially if you don’t have time to clean it regularly. Adding Color and Finishes to Tooled Leather When it comes to enhancing the visual appeal of tooled leather, adding color and finishes can create stunning results that highlight the intricate designs. Various techniques can be employed, such as dyeing, painting, or applying a finish to protect and enhance the leather. For instance, using a high-quality leather dye can penetrate the grain and enrich the natural tones, while acrylic paints allow for vibrant, artistic expressions on your leather pieces. Additionally, finishing products like beeswax or acrylic sealers provide a protective layer that not only helps to preserve the color but also adds a subtle sheen. By experimenting with these techniques, leather craftsmen can achieve unique and personalized looks, bringing their creations to life and ensuring that each piece tells a captivating story. Why Trust Our Leather Tooling Expertise? At Steel Horse Leather, our deep understanding of leather tooling comes from years of hands-on experience crafting premium leather goods. Our master artisans have dedicated their lives to perfecting traditional leatherworking techniques, including the intricate art of leather tooling. This expertise is reflected in every piece we create, from our vintage bags to custom-tooled accessories. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond mere craftsmanship. We maintain direct relationships with premium leather suppliers and have extensively researched various tanning processes, particularly focusing on vegetable-tanned leather - the gold standard for tooling work. This comprehensive understanding of leather sourcing and processing allows us to select the perfect materials for tooling projects, ensuring optimal results in terms of both aesthetics and durability. What sets us apart is our holistic approach to leatherworking. While many focus solely on the end product, we understand that exceptional tooled leather pieces begin with selecting the right raw materials and using time-tested traditional methods. Our artisans' obsessive attention to detail and passionate dedication to their craft means we can offer not just products, but valuable insights into the art of leather tooling. Whether you're a beginner looking to start your leather tooling journey or an experienced craftsperson seeking to refine your techniques, our expertise is grounded in real-world experience and a genuine love for this timeless craft. Frequently Asked Questions What Is Tooling Leather And Why Is It Special? Tooling leather is specifically designed for creating decorative patterns and designs. While any leather can technically be tooled, vegetable-tanned leather is preferred because it's softer and easier to work with, producing the best results for detailed designs. How Do You Prepare Leather For Tooling? Leather must be moistened through a process called casing, where water is applied evenly to both the flesh and grain sides using a damp sponge. This process makes the leather fibers swell and soften, making it workable for tooling. What Tools Are Needed For Leather Tooling? Essential tools include a swivel knife, a background tool, and a mallet or hammer. Additional tools like shaders can be helpful, but beginners can start with these basic tools. A spoon can serve as an alternative to specialized shading tools. What's The Difference Between Leather Engraving And Embossing? Engraving is done by hand using tools and requires skill and practice, while embossing uses machines that apply heat and pressure to create uniform patterns. Engraving offers more creative freedom but takes longer to complete. How Should Tooled Leather Be Maintained? Tooled leather should be protected from water and direct sunlight, cleaned regularly with a soft cloth or animal hair brush, and conditioned periodically. Regular waxing helps maintain its condition and appearance. Conclusion Leather tooling is both an art form and a craft that combines traditional techniques with creative expression. While it requires patience and practice to master, the basic principles are accessible to beginners with the right materials and guidance. By understanding the proper preparation, techniques, and care methods, anyone can begin their journey into the rewarding world of leather tooling. Whether pursuing it as a hobby or profession, the satisfaction of creating unique, handcrafted leather pieces makes it a worthwhile endeav

When it comes to the groomsmen gifts duffle bag, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. That's why we've compiled this comprehensive guide on the best duffle bags for groomsmen. So if you're looking for the perfect gift for your groomsmen, be sure to check out our blog!

A laptop backpack is the perfect work backpack for women who is tired of using a different type of bags such as a handbag, tote bag, luggage, satchel, carry-on briefcase, or pouches. Or for women who need to carry their laptops and other work-related supplies around town. Not only is it stylish and comfortable to wear, but it also has padded compartments and zippered pockets to store everything you need. Whether you're looking to take your work with you on the go or simply make your work life a little easier, a laptop backpack is a perfect choice. So whether you're in search of the perfect work bag or just want some advice on which one to buy, read on!

Owning a leather work bag is the ideal way to arrange all of your office supplies in an orderly and fashionable way.

Leather backpacks have come a long way. From its first inception to its modern designs, leather backpacks are bags for everyone. Likewise, it is a bag perfect for almost every occasion. It is fashionable and likewise for function. Throughout the years, the backpack’s design has evolved to cater to different needs. It caters to the likes for school needs, office needs, and popularly for hiking and trekking. It is a bag that you should definitely own. If have yet to own leather backpacks maybe this is the year to do it. You might however feel overwhelmed by the different designs of the modern backpack. The type and quality of the leather will also matter. Its size and style are likewise important. Fortunately for you, we have curated the best of the best for 2022. Let us help you look for the leather backpack that fits you. What to Look for in a Men's Leather Backpack or Rucksack Are you new to leather? If you are planning to purchase leather backpacks then you should first know a thing or two about leather. For example, there are three types of real leather out there. When we say real leather we mean organically made leather. These three types of leather are full-grain leather, top-grain leather, and genuine leather. Accordingly, the quality of leather goes from the best to the least good. The different type of leather you choose matters. This is because each type of leather will have its own advantages and disadvantages. Much of which will depend on the preferences of the buyer. Like for example, full-grain leather might be the best quality among the three but it is also the most expensive. Or that top grain leather is has a more uniform and refined finish in comparison to full-grain leather. Likewise, if you are on a tight budget, there are genuine leather backpacks that have the perfect balance of price and quality. The style and size of your leather backpack will also matter. Leather backpacks are heavier in comparison to nylon or canvas backpack. Accordingly, the bigger the backpack the heavier it is to carry. Find a middle ground between function and comfort especially for those with a smaller stature. Never compromise one for the other. Do not worry we are here to help. Best Leather Backpacks Among the three types of real leather, full-grain leather is the highest quality leather. It is the strongest among all leathers. Likewise, full-grain leather is very durable. It can withstand the test of time. and it is not easily susceptible to wear and tear. It is also by far the most unique among all leather types. Its uniqueness comes from its patina. The patina develops a unique pattern borne from the imperfections of the animal's skin. Unlike top-grain leather and genuine leather, its surface is full of scars and blemishes. Overall whether on leather backpacks, couches, shoes, or other leather-made things, full-grain leather remains to be the best of the best. How can you tell if the leather is of good quality? For the untrained eye, all leather might look the same. Telling the difference between the different qualities of leather might prove to be a difficult task. For one, high-quality leather-like full grain and top grain is much more expensive in comparison to genuine leather. However, the price is not conclusive nor is it a good indication for good quality leather. The trick is to get intimate with the leather using your senses. By sight, you can discern full grain from other types of leather. Full-grain has unique patterns whereas the others are more uniform and refined. You can also tell by feeling the leather. Top grain, in comparison to full grain, is more flexible. Genuine leather is likewise more flexible than full-grain leather. In some instances, you can also tell the quality of leather by its smell. Although it is not much on the quality of the leather itself but on the process of making it. More specifically during the tanning phase. Different methods of tanning, for example, vegetable tanning and chrome tanning, will affect the quality of the leather. We only use full grain vegetable tanned leather in our backpacks. This makes for a bag that can last for a very long time and age with a beautiful patina. What are the best backpacks for high school? The best backpacks for high school are those you are comfortable wearing. Of course, they have to be made out of light material for teenage kids to carry every day. Likewise, it must be strong enough to carry all those textbooks, papers, and occasionally a laptop or tablet. These backpacks must also have a compartment or two to store extra things. Moreover, backpacks for high schoolers should be durable. It must both withstand the daily use and the abuse. And last but not least, it should also look cool and with style. Nothing turns heads more in highschool than a cool-looking backpack. Sometimes you also need portability and that is where a mini leather backpack can come into play. Types of Leather for Leather Backpacks There are three types of leather. Real leather that is. They are full grain leather, top-grain leather, and genuine leather. Each having different qualities. Real leather has the highest among the three. Next is top-grain and then genuine leather. These three types of leather are made of animal skin or leather hide. The animal skin or leather hide goes through a long process of change. They are skinned, tanned, and finally cured to create the leather we all know and love. This process will either take a long time or a short time to finish. Depending on the leather making method. Different methods also produce different types of leather. These methods may involve sanding, splitting, or buffing the leather hide. Another is to assemble different leather hide scraps to make one whole fabric. It is also important to distinguish real leather types from fake leather. Also known as faux leather, these "leather" are not made of real animal skin. On the contrary, they are a product of synthetic materials that imitate how real leather looks and feels. Thus they are fake. Even more so, we do not consider faux or fake leather as leather at all. An example of fake leather is PU leather. It is created from polyurethane, a plastic with a similar feel and aspect to real leather. Full Grain Leather What is full grain leather? Full-grain leather is basically, animal skin that is cleaned, tanned, and cured as is. "As is" meaning that the animal skin is left untouched and its natural grain remains intact. Full grain leather has the highest quality among all leather. It is stronger and more durable in comparison to top grain leather because of the natural grain. The natural grain contains most of the strong fibers that keep the leather strong and durable. In other words full-grain leather is tough. Its toughness however has its downside since it becomes harder to work with. Manufacturing full-grain leather requires more costs and manpower, which is one of the reasons why it is expensive. Another interesting thing that full-grain uniquely possesses is the patina. Patina develops only for full-grain leather. It develops along the natural grain of the leather. It does however require time to age the leather into its beautiful vintage look. Top Grain Leather Genuine leather, the lowest quality leather among the three. Its strength is significantly inferior to the top-grain and full-grain. It is still however very tough and durable but not as breathable in comparison to the full-grain. Genuine leather's price is also significantly lower. It also has the least demand among the leather. Genuine leather comes from the remains after the top layer is split off to make top-grain and full-grain leather. Splitting leather is often necessary especially if the leather hide is too thick to work with. Likewise, when it has too many imperfections that manufacturers can not turn it into full-grain leather. The remaining leather goes through the tanning process just like top-grain and full-grain. Genuine leather however does not have a natural skin finish. Most of the time manufacturers use chemicals to give genuine leather a look similar to top grain leather. They use a combination of artificial grains, spray painting, and pattern embossing to imitate the top grain surface. Genuine Leather Genuine leather, the lowest quality leather among the three. Its strength is significantly inferior to the top-grain and full-grain. It is still however very tough and durable but not as breathable in comparison to the full-grain. Genuine leather's price is also significantly lower. It also has the least demand among the leather. Genuine leather comes from the remains after the top layer is split off to make top-grain and full-grain leather. Splitting leather is often necessary especially if the leather hide is too thick to work with. Likewise, when it has too many imperfections that manufacturers can not turn it into full-grain leather. The remaining leather goes through the tanning process just like top-grain and full-grain. Genuine leather however does not have a natural skin finish. Most of the time manufacturers use chemicals to give genuine leather a look similar to top grain leather. They use a combination of artificial grains, spray painting, and pattern embossing to imitate the top grain surface. PU Leather + Vegan Leather Backpacks If there is real leather then there is also fake leather. This fake leather is an imitation of the real organic leather. Unlike real leather, they are synthetic and not organic. Another name for fake leather is faux leather. Likewise, many people call fake leather vegan leather. Vegan because it is leather that does not involve harming any animals nor does it involve using any animal skin. PU Leather is commonly used in items such as a purse, handbag, or tote. We commonly know two types of fake or vegan leather. These are PU Leather and PVC Leather. Both are made with synthetic materials. Accordingly, PU leather is polyurethane while PVC leather is from polyvinyl plastic. If you value quality, it is wise to avoid any synthetic leather or vegan leather. They are significantly inferior to real leather. Inferior even in comparison to the lowest quality real leather. They are not as strong as real leather. Making them unfit to carry heavy loads. Fake or vegan leather is also not as durable as real leather. They easily crack and peel off especially for PU leather since it is made of thin materials While they look like real leather and may feel like real leather, they are nowhere as great as real leather. Especially for leather backpacks. Leather backpacks are supposed to carry many things. They are also meant for various activities, indoors or outdoors. Thus the activities frequently expose leather backpacks to different elements. Elements that will harm them. A backpack should not easily be a victim of wear and tear. Especially leather backpacks. While they are indeed a cheaper alternative, they are not good investments. Picking the Right Size Leather Bag How do you buy the perfect backpack? Choosing what leather your leather backpack is one thing, knowing what size to buy is another. As there are different types of leather, there are also different sizes. The size of your leather backpack will not only play an important part in carrying your things but for comfort as well. For example, a large leather backpack may not be suitable for someone of small stature. Size also matters especially if you are planning to purchase a leather laptop backpack. Obviously, you would not want to buy a leather backpack smaller than your laptop. You would necessarily want a backpack that will fit perfectly to your laptop. Common laptops have sizes of 13 to 15 to 17 inches. A leather backpack with a laptop sleeve or even a padded compartment is a plus. They will keep your laptop in place and protected inside and out. Look for the perfect leather backpack with the right size, utility, and comfort. How to Choose the Right Style and Look Of course, choosing the perfect leather backpack also comes with choosing the right style and look. You should be comfortable both with how you wear and what you wear. Choosing the right style and look however is very personal and will depend on the person's preferences. For leather backpacks, there are three styles, namely: vintage, modern, and rolltop. Vintage Vintage leather backpacks are usually the most popular. Usually because of the vintage aesthetic. The vintage look also includes old school buckles and clasps to keep up with the style. It also gives off the sense that the leather is strong, durable, and old because of its look. Nonetheless of its style, the vintage look does not compromise on function. Photographer: Aoumeur Abderrahmen | Source: Unsplash Modern Rising in popularity, modern style makes it possible to merge the vintage leather aesthetic with modern designs. The modern design entails more compartmentalization for storing. It offers space not only for clothes and books but for laptops, smartphones, and other devices as well. You will find multiple pockets in the modern style, with hidden pockets for your valuables too. This style is also more safe and secure because of its velcro straps and zipper. They are easily accessible as well. Rolltop It is a unique design, with a wide opening. It has often has two buckles that seal the backpack's rolltop opening. Unlike the other styles, the rolltop gives you the option to expand and retract the bag's size depending on how much you carry. For example, if you are carrying only a small amount of things, you can roll the top down to make the bag smaller. Likewise, if you are carrying more or larger things. Just roll it up and secure the end with the buckle. However, you won't probably see the rolltop style these days. Top 7 Men's Leather Backpacks With a variety of leather backpacks, it is often hard to choose which is the best. To make your decision easier we have made a list of the top 7 best leather backpacks in 2022 for men. Find the bag that is perfect for you in this selection. The Hagen Backpack | Grain Brown Leather Backpack A vintage-style leather backpack, the Hagen Backpack has the look of a true antique. It is strong and durable for everyday use, yet soft and lightweight for comfort. It has a spacious main interior compartment that can fit a laptop of up to 14 inches. Additionally, it has two exterior zippered pockets for things that you want to access easily. Besides being a great men's leather backpack, it has also been proven to be a solid choice for women's backpacks due to its smaller size. Make a great fashion statement and pair it with our Pathfinder wallet. The Hagen Backpack The Helka Backpack | Vintage Leather Backpack The Helka Backpack is made for everyday use. It is comfortable to wear and durable enough for school, work, or even outdoor trips. The Helka Backpack has a sleek and minimal design. It is a leather backpack that has a modern design with a vintage look. The Hekla Backpack will never go out of place both in an outdoor or urban setting. Moreover, this leather backpack offers a spacious main compartment. It works as a great laptop bag for sizes up to 15 inches. Likewise, the backpack has an external pocket that is easy to access with a zipper. The Helka Backpack The Asmund Backpack | Genuine Leather Backpack If you are looking for a leather backpack with a truly vintage aesthetic then the Asmund Backpack is for you. This small backpack offers an effortless rugged look that has been around for years. However, it does not only offer looks but it is a quality leather backpack as well. It is strong and spacious enough to fit a laptop of up to 14 inches and other day-to-day items. It is also extremely durable and weather resistant. The Asmund Backpack The Freja Backpack | Handmade Classic Leather Backpack A bag that will suit your daily needs. The Freja Backpack is a multifunctional shoulder bag perfect for school, work, and outdoor trips. Not only is it a large bag, but it is full of compartments and pockets as well. It can fit a laptop that is up to 15 inches wide. You can also find pockets in and out of the backpack. These pockets are also kept secure with zippers. Despite being a backpack meant to carry heaving things, its design has comfort in mind. The design, more importantly, focus on supporting the back. It keeps the weight evenly distributed across the body of the bag and you never have to worry about sore shoulders and it has a very comfortable shoulder strap. The Freja Backpack The Vali Backpack | Handmade Convertible Leather Backpack The Vali Backpack has a sophisticated yet simple design. It is a leather backpack built for efficiency and function. This leather backpack is ideal for school and work. Its frame and compartments are specifically designed to store books and papers. It can likewise store a laptop up to 15 inches wide. Its straps also provide extra comfort as it distributes the backpack's weight evenly despite its structure. The Vali Backpack The Vernon Backpack | Genuine Vintage Leather Minimalist Backpack The simplest yet most versatile bag on this list is the Vernon Backpack. Do not let its simple design fool you. This backpack has a very roomy feature to it. Its main compartment is able to secure a laptop of up to 15 inches with plenty of room to spare. It also has a secondary compartment or an exterior compartment secured by a zipper. It is strong yet lightweight. Highly functional without compromising on style. A bad that is very dependable and will definitely last a lifetime. The Vernon Backpack The Shelby Backpack | Handmade Leather Rucksack A leather backpack of both style and utility. The Shelby backpack is the best of both worlds. Not only does it have a beautiful vintage look but it also provides huge storage space. It has a spacious main compartment built to house a laptop of up to 17 inches. Its laptop compartment also has padding for protection. It has several exterior pockets of various sizes for holding all of your smaller items. These compartments and pockets are secured by YKK zippers and buckles. It is quite a large bag, however, it is surprisingly lightweight. It is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, however, it works for the daily commute as well. This bag would make the perfect backpack for travel. https://steelhorseleather.com/collections/vintage-leather-backpacks/products/the-shelby-backpack-handmade-genuine-leather-backpack?_pos=1&_sid=10778992f&_ss=r Benefits of Buying Real Leather What are the benefits of buying real leather? And most importantly should you buy real leather? The answer is definitely a yes. Real leather is strong and beautiful. It is a proven fact that its quality is far superior to its synthetic imitations. Likewise, real leather is very durable in comparison to fake leather. While both are vulnerable to the elements, real leather does not crack and peel of as easily as fake leather. While they may look the same and feel the same, through daily use, you will notice very significant differences. However, because of the advancements of our technology, manufacturers have been making imitations as real as possible. It has reached the point that it has become a difficult task to tell them apart. This is very true especially for those who know nothing about leather. It does not take an expert to tell good quality leather from a bad one. At most times it is as easy as checking the label and the price. Manufacturers often label their products with what kind of leather it is made from. Likewise, it is apparent for good quality leather costs more. These tips however are not very dependable. To get a conclusive answer in telling the quality of the leather you must have to get intimate with it. Use your senses to discern good quality from bad. Look at it. Feel it. Take a whiff at it. To know more about telling real leather apart from fake leather click on the link below. Real Leather vs Fake Leather: How To Tell Them Apart Hardware, Zipper, and Stitching Of course, what makes leather backpacks great are not only the type of leather it uses. Hardware, zippers, and stitching also play an important role in its greatness. A quality leather backpack is only as good as its stitching. Imagine having to own a full-grain leather backpack, but it cannot handle the load you are carrying because of bad stitching? What use is the leather if what holds it together is not up to its quality? Therefore you must pay attention to every detail to ensure the leather backpack is of overall high-quality. Moreover, high-quality backpacks use YKK zippers to close and secure the backpack. YKK zippers are generally known as a very dependable type of zipper. They are heavy duty and reliable. Most of the time they are found not only on bags but jackets, jeans, and other clothing as well. How to Care for Your Leather Backpack A very important aspect whenever you own leather backpacks or even any other leather product such as a briefcase is taking care of it. It is important yet many disregard it. Many think that just because leather is strong and durable that they can abuse it as much as they want. To keep your leather longer you must take care of it. But how do you take care of your leather backpack? There are two important steps in taking care of your leather backpack. Cleaning The first is cleaning. Cleaning your backpack is important because dust, stains, and other elements that attach to lInk stains for example are the worst things to happen to leather. If you do not clean it right away then it might stay there permanently. Likewise, you should know how to clean your leather. Cleaning leather is a very delicate process because the leather itself is also delicate. Despite its toughness and durability there are cleaning products that will ruin your leather. Even submerging your leather into water is a big no-no. While there are leathers that are water-resistant like oil-tanned leather, it does not mean that you should submerge them in water. Trust us, it will ruin your leather, especially if you do not try it off quickly. If you want to know how to remove an ink stain from your leather backpack click on the link below. Steel Horse Leather Co. | How To Get Ink Out Of Leather What is oil-tanned leather? Just a little segue, since we mentioned oil-tanned leather it is best to explain it as well. In the process of making leather there are three main steps: skinning, tanning, and curing. In the second stage, there are different methods of tanning. To name a few, there is vegetable tanning, chrome tanning, and of course oil tanning. Oil tanning is the process of tanning leather after the initial vegetable tanning. This method uses natural oils, typically fish oil. Oil tanning makes the leather soft and flexible making it easier to work with. More importantly, it makes the leather highly water-resistant. Holding long exposures of moisture is really great quality for leather since water has degrading effects on the fabric. While it is water-resistant it is not waterproof. Make sure to dry your leather as soon as possible. Conditioning While cleaning is good for the leather it often leaves the leather dry because of the soap or other cleaning products. Conditioning your leather with a leather conditioner helps the leather renourish its fibers. This will keep the leather strong and durable for a very long time. It will also protect the leather from harmful elements such as sunlight. We suggest that you condition your leather at least two times a year. This practice will ensure that your leather is in tip-top shape. It also increases the longevity of the leather. More on what leather conditioner does to your leather. Click on the link below. Steel Horse Leather Co. | What Does Leather Conditioner Do? How to Clean a Leather Rucksack Cleaning a leather backpack is the same as cleaning other leather products. Taking care of leather is a delicate process. There are a few cleaning products that may be harmful to leather. Likewise, exposing your leather to water for a long period of time will degrade the leather. Thus, to clean leather you will need the proper tools and cleaning products. We suggest you use saddle soap or other leather cleaners. If you have none you can use a mild shampoo or baby soap as alternatives. Handwash your leather, NEVER clean it on the machine for two obvious reasons. The first is that you will be submerging the leather in water. The other is the machine will be rough on the leather and it may cause the leather to tear. Just use a smooth clean cloth to dampen your leather and to dry the same as well. After you clean your leather backpack and it is dry, make sure to condition it. This will protect your leather from dirt, dust, and other harmful elements. Conditioning also nourishes the leather fibers and makes the leather last longer. In conditioning leather backpacks, make sure to condition them regularly especially when you use them daily. Nonetheless, no matter what type of leather your backpack is taking care of the leather is necessary. Whether you own a real leather backpack or fake leather clean it regularly at least. You can only however condition real leather since fake leather cannot absorb the conditioner. Can a Leather Backpack Get Wet? We get our things wet once in a while and leather backpacks are no exceptions. While there are leather backpacks that are water-resistant, they are in no way waterproof. Being water-resistant means that it can hold of exposure to moisture for longer periods of time without the leather degrading. However, it can still get wet and will ruin your leather if left too long. Waterproof on the other hand means that exposure to moisture will have no degrading nor harmful effects to the leather. Raw leather is permeable and therefore absorbs water. While you can make your leather resistant to water, making it absorb less moisture you cannot make it 100% waterproof. Real leather of all types should not get wet. Water of any type will have adverse effects on the suppleness of the leather. Moreover, leaving it untreated will turn the leather brittle and crack. To avoid any damaging we advise you to properly maintain your leather. Cleaning and conditioning are the first lines of defense. You may also use leather sprays to protect your leather from moisture. It is quick and convenient however it may change the hue of your leather. It is, therefore, best to avoid using leather sprays. How to Store a Leather Backpack and Rucksack Since leather backpacks are durable most of the time they can handle the abuse of wear and tear. However, it is best to store your leather backpacks where there is no direct sunlight. This may dry up and damage the leather. Likewise, you should not store it near damp or wet areas. Long exposure to any moisture will also damage the leather. It will turn brittle and crack or peel off. You may also want to cover your leather backpack with a dust bag if you won't be using it for quite some time. We do however advise that you clean and condition your leather before tucking it away for safekeeping. How is Leather for Rucksacks Made Leather rucksacks are rugged bags that are built to carry heavy and large things. They are made of the toughest and strongest leather in order to carry all that weight. How is that leather made and where does it come from? Before we begin, there is only one kind of leather and that is real leather. Fake leather is not considered leather at all. There are however different types of leather of varying qualities. Leather comes from animal skin or leather hide. The leather hide commonly comes from the skins of cows and horses. Although they may also come from alligators, buffalos, and other exotic animals. They go through the process of skinning, tanning, and curing in order to turn into leather. In the process of making leather the most important part is the tanning stage. Here the anima skin goes into a molecular change. The protein found all over the skin is permanently altered making the skin more durable. This also prevents the skin from decomposing. What are the Benefits of Owning a Leather Backpack or Rucksack Purchasing a leather backpack is a big decision to make. It is overall quite an expensive thing to own. And you might be second-guessing yourself on the big purchase that you are about to make. However, we can assure you that owning a leather backpack is a great investment. While its price point is high leather backpacks offer quite a number of benefits. It is strong and we cannot stress that quality enough. It is reliable not only with its strength and the capacity it can carry but because of its water-resistant qualities as well. Leather backpacks are also very durable. They are made to last a lifetime and perhaps even more. This is something that they call the long-lasting heirloom quality. Because of its longevity, a leather backpack may be passed down from one generation to another. Furthermore, we can assure you that our handmade leather backpacks are the best of the best. Here at Steel Horse Leather Co., we work only with the best Leather Artisans to bring you genuine, high-quality leather. And because it is handmade there is great attention to every detail. Leather backpacks are not only an investment for you but for the next generation as well. With every year that passes by, it grows into something stronger and more beautiful. Not only is it a bag of style and function but it is also a bag filled with memories as well.

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Looking for the perfect bag but the duffel bag or the messenger bag is just not for you? How about the rucksack? But what is a rucksack? In the most basic sense, the rucksack is a backpack. However, it is not just a backpack. It also has its own unique qualities and functions that separate them from the backpack. In a way, it forms part of the family of backpacks. Get to know more about the rucksack. Know their similarities with the backpack and their differences as well.The Asmund Backpack (Rucksack)The FundamentalsTo fully understand what truly is a rucksack we must first identify what fundamentally is a backpack. Additionally, we will also include what are the similarities and differences between the rucksack and backpack.The Backpack and The RucksackA backpack in its most basic design is frameless. It is made of cloth or other materials such as leather or waxed canvas. Backpacks are typically carried on the back hence the word “back” of the backpack. It has two parallel straps that you can hang over your shoulders. The backpack’s design is intended to carry a heavier weight which is also why it is carried on the back for additional support and convenience. Some designs of the backpack sport a waist strap to secure the backpack. Moreover, it is a known fact that the additional waist strap significantly eases the wearer’s burden, especially when carrying heavy loads. This is because the hips are stronger than the shoulders. In addition, the design also increases the agility and balance of the wearer since the heavy load is near his or her center of gravity. This, therefore, leaves the shoulder straps mainly for stabilizing the load.Similarly, the rucksack has the same frameless design as the backpack. It is however larger and more rugged-looking than the backpack. Although they may differ when it comes to the opening of the bag. In addition, rucksacks sometimes have additional straps on the waist and on the chest for stability. It is quite clear that they share a similar look. The difference however lies when you take a close look at the rucksack’s characteristics.OriginsThe origins of the simple backpack may date back way longer than you would have ever imagined. According to many sources, the use of the backpack or something quite similar to its use and design today dates back even to the prehistoric era. Although there is no hard evidence a probability exists. This is because our ancestors might have learned that it is easier to carry heavy objects on the back rather than carrying them in their arms. Carrying something on your back would also give them a free hand to carry weapons such as spears and clubs.The evidence to prove this probability however is scarce. Many believe that the earliest use of a backpack was from the people who live in the Alps. The earliest design of the backpack was a U-shape rod with two wooden boards. By tying them together with a string they form a pack or bag. They were mainly for carrying firewood.It was only around 1910 when the first records of the use of backpacks appear. Like the duffel bag, the backpack was primarily for military use. However, its rise to popularity was earlier than expected. Many people started to use the backpack for recreational activities such as hiking and camping. The early 60s was also a popular time for the backpack with the rise of “backpackers”. Then the evolution of the simple backpack took place. Many discoveries of its use led to a variety of designs such as the rucksack. Genuine Leather RucksackTerminologySimilar to how they look, the backpack and the rucksack are also often confused with how they are called. This because throughout history the backpack is known by many names. One of those names was a “rucksack” which now contributes to the confusion. To start, it was only around 1910 when the term “backpack” was coined by the Americans. However, during the Second World War soldiers would sometimes refer to the bag as the “rucksack”. The rucksack was a German loanword mainly used by the United Kingdom, the United States, and other western forces. This is because in Middle High Germany the work “ruck” means “back” (or dorsum). While the words “sack” and “pack” mean the same thing.You may use whatever term you choose. However, it is better to use the correct term such as the rucksack when referring to a large, rugged backpack.The Backpack and Rucksack: Similarities and Differences Let us start with the similarities. Obviously, the backpack and the rucksack look similar however there are some nuances. To reiterate, a rucksack is larger than a backpack. While both bags function to carry heavier loads, the rucksack’s has a larger capacity because of its size. The backpack is lightweight and usually carries 50 liters less than the rucksack. Likewise, both rucksacks and backpacks sometimes have waist straps to ease the burden of carrying a heavy load. The rucksack however often has an extra strap across the chest. This is necessary and convenient especially for hikers who often spend more time carrying the heavy bag.Another significantly different characteristic of the rucksack is its opening. A rucksack typically has an opening at the top with an overlapping flap to close it. Closing the bay may either be by using a zipper or a tie or drawstring. Larger rucksacks also have belts and loops for holding pots and other things for camping. This even store sleeping bags and water canisters.Why you should choose the Rucksack?Know that you know what a rucksack is it is also important to know why you should choose it. Here are three reasons why:1. Perfect for Long Distance TravelLet us face it. Traveling is not only rough for the traveler but for the bag as well. If you frequently travel you will need a strong, sturdy, and reliable bag. And with the rucksack’s large size you can squeeze in a few more souvenirs from your travels.2. Perfect for CampingIf it is not obvious enough, the rucksack is made for camping! With the capacity that it can carry it is a guarantee that all your camping essentials will fit in one rucksack. Plus if you are hiking to your campsite, the additional straps will ease the burden on your shoulders. 3. Perfect for Everyday UseDo not forget that a rucksack is still a backpack. And for a backpack, there is always a variety of uses. From carrying your books to school to short distance travels the rucksack is perfect for any use.The Olaf Rucksack