Leather is a durable and flexible material created byĀ tanning animal skin. It is a light and strong material that can be cut and shaped easily! Leather is used to make a variety of items, including footwear, automobile seats, clothing, bags, book bindings, fashion accessories, furniture, saddles, and many more.
Key Takeaways
- Leather production is dominated by cow hide (65%), with significant contributions from sheep (15%) and pigs (11%), making it primarily a by-product of the food industry
- TheĀ leather manufacturingĀ process involves three main stages: pre-tanning, tanning, and crusting, each crucial for creating durable and flexible leather
- Full-grain leather, particularly Crazy Horse Leather, represents the highest quality and most durable form of leather available
- Different animal sources provideĀ unique leatherĀ characteristics - from the water-resistant properties of Morocco (goat leather) to the softness of sheepskin
- Quality leather products can last 50-60 years with proper care, making them a valuable long-term investment
Our Leather Craftsmanship Heritage
At Steel Horse Leather, our expertise inĀ leather craftsmanshipĀ spans generations of dedicated artisans who have mastered the intricate art of leather working. Our master craftsmen don't just create leather products; they bring decades of traditional leather-working knowledge to every piece they produce. This deep understanding ofĀ leather propertiesĀ and manufacturing processes allows us to provide not just products, but authentic insights into the world ofĀ premium leatherĀ goods.
We take pride in our holistic approach to leather sourcing and production. Our team has extensively researched and vetted numerousĀ leather suppliers, giving us comprehensive knowledge of every aspect of the leather-making process - from raw hide selection to the final finishing touches. This hands-on experience with variousĀ types of leather, particularly our specialty Crazy Horse Leather, enables us to share detailed, practical insightsĀ about leatherĀ characteristics, care, and longevity. Our commitment to transparency means we can confidently guide you through the intricacies ofĀ leather qualityĀ and manufacturing processes discussed in this article.
The Historical Significance of Leather in Human Culture
Leather has played a vital role throughout human history, serving not only as a practical material but also as a symbol of status and cultural identity across various civilizations. From prehistoric times, early humans utilized animal hides to create protective garments, armor, and shelter, showcasing leather's utility in survival. As societies evolved, leather became integral in trade, craftsmanship, and artistic expression; for example, the ancient Egyptians used leather in their ceremonial attire and decorations, while the Romans crafted intricate leather goods that signified wealth and power. The significance ofĀ leather isĀ further highlighted in religious contexts, where it often held symbolic meanings, such as purity and sacrifice. Today, leather continues to evoke a sense of heritage and tradition, reminding us of its enduring legacy in human culture and craftsmanship. This rich history enriches our appreciation for leather products, making them not just functional items but also storytellers of our shared humanity.
Origins and Sources of Leather
Ā
| Source | % of Global Leather | Key Traits | Common Uses | 2025 Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| š Cowhide | ~65 % | Strong, thick, abundant | Bags, shoes, jackets, upholstery | By-product of meat ā most sustainable mainstream |
| š Sheepskin | ~15 % | Soft, warm, wool-lined options | Winter coats, gloves, slippers | Great for cozy luxury |
| š· Pigskin (Berkshire) | ~11 % | Dense, breathable, pebbled grain | Gloves, shoes, footballs | Affordable alternative to goat |
| š Goatskin (Morocco) | ~5ā7 % | Supple, fine grain, water-resistant | High-end gloves, bookbinding, bags | Premium feel, durable |
| š Exotics (croc, ostrich, snake) | ~2ā3 % | Unique texture, ultra-luxury | Bags, watches, shoes | Most expensive, 50ā60 year lifespan |
| š 2025 Global Insight | |
|---|---|
| Sustainability | ~99 % of leather is meat industry by-product (no animal farmed solely for skin) |
| Top Producer Countries | Brazil, China, India, Italy (tanning leaders) |
| Trend | Rise in traceable, ethical sourcing + veg-tanned exotics |
2025 Takeaway:
Cowhide dominates because it's abundant, strong, and sustainable.
Exotic leathers = ultimate luxury status.
All real leather ages with character ā unlike synthetics.
Real leather is commonly made from cow-hide, but other animal skins can also be used such as goats or buffalos. Thousands of years ago, our ancestors hunt animals for food. They, later on, discovered that the skins of these animals could also be used as clothing to prevent them from elements such as heat and cold. In modern times, different types of leather originating from different animals are used toĀ make leather. In fact, 65% of theseĀ manufactured leatherĀ comes from cows, followed by sheep (15%), Pigs (11%), and other animals (9%) which mostly composed exotic animals. This distribution of leather sources underscores an important aspect of modern leather production: its role in resource efficiency. Research has shown that leather production, particularly from cow hides, constitutes a significant by-product of the meat industry, effectively reducing waste and contributing to more sustainable resource utilization (Kellen et al., 2025; Oetopo et al., 2023).
Cowhide
Cowhides are considered as by-products of the food industry. However, instead of throwing away the skins, they are delivered to the tannery to be manufactured intoĀ good quality leather. These leathers are then transformed into your favorite designer shoes and bags!
Sheepskin
Sheep produce thick wool instead of hair. Sheepskin is known for its durability and softness. Leather made from sheepskin is usually used to make winter clothing such as your leather jackets, gloves, or fluffy slippers!
Berkshire
Berkshire is aĀ type of leatherĀ made from Pigskin! It is dense, durable, and has a soft feel which are similar qualities as goatskin. In fact, in 1852, tanner used Berkshire as an affordable substitute to goatskin.
Morocco
Morocco or goat leather has a smooth and fine grain with a supple feel. It is also preferably used by others because it is water-resistant and can easily be air-dried.
Others
Other animals are also used for leather such as crocodiles, snakes, seals, fish, kangaroos, horses, cats, and dogs. In fact, theĀ most expensive leatherĀ is made from exotic animals such as crocodiles! A product made from this material would last up to 50-60 years if well-taken care of.
The Leather Manufacturing Process
Making leather is a tough process. The process includes mainly 3 stages namely, pre-tanning, tanning, and crusting. Recent advancements in leather manufacturing have introduced more sustainable approaches to these traditional processes. Studies indicate that innovative eco-friendly alternatives, such as plant-based tanning agents and biodegradable materials like alginate, are being developed to offer comparable properties to traditional leather while significantly reducing environmental impacts (Quaratesi et al., 2024; Dang et al., 2024).
Each of these stages is thoroughly discussed as follows:
Preparatory Stage/Pre-Tanning
In this stage, the skin is prepared for theĀ process of tanningĀ and unwanted particles are removed from it. After arriving at the tannery, the rawhide is soaked in water to remove the excess salt used in preservation. For this purpose, large revolving drums that contain 200 hides per rotation are used. After that, hair and epidermis are removed. A solution of lime (Calcium Hydroxide) and Sodium Sulfide is applied to make it soft and flexible. Finally, the hide is split into two layers: grain (top) and suede(bottom part).
Tanning
Tanning is the conversion of animal proteins from raw skin into a stable material. During this step, a tanning agent is applied onto the rawhide. After tanning, the material becomes more durable and less susceptible to decomposition.
Crusting
In this step, the animal hide is thinned, retained, and lubricated. It follows the following short processes: Splitting, Stuffing, Drying, and Conditioning
Splitting
Splitting is a process where the leather is sliced into thin layers. A splitting machine slices the leather according to the desired thickness. The layer without a grain surface can be turned into suede.
Dyeing
Leather is dyed into a variety of colors depending on the design. Some leathers are only dyed on their surface. While some are completely penetrated with the dye.
Stuffing
Fats, oils, and waxes are added between the fibers to make theĀ leather soft. Without these oils, the leather will become hard as it dries.
Drying and Conditioning
Leather is dried and conditioned to keep it soft, and supple.
Types of Leather
Full-grain or Top Grain Leather
The top or Full-Grain Leather is the strongest and most durable portion of the hide. Full-Grain Leather is used to make Crazy Horse Leather. This type of leather has not been sanded, buffed, or snuffed; thus, it retains its original and natural characteristics. Crazy Horse Leather is regarded as theĀ highest quality leatherĀ and is used to make our leather products.
Suede
Suede is the bottom part of the hide. It has a velvety and rough texture.
Reconstituted Leather
Reconstituted leather, also known asĀ bonded leather, is a cheap alternative toĀ real leather. It is of poor quality and tends to get damaged easily. Reconstituted leather is made from a mix of real andĀ fake leather. Manufacturers take leftover scraps, grind them into a pulp, stick them together, and attach it to a polyurethane (PU) overlay.
Craftsmanship Spotlight: The Dagny Weekender
At Steel Horse Leather, our dedication to premium leather craftsmanship is exemplified in ourĀ Dagny Weekender. This full-grain leather travel companion represents our commitment to combining functionality with timeless elegance. Drawing from our extensive experience with Crazy Horse Leather, we designed this weekender to address common travel challenges while maintaining the highest standards of leather craftsmanship.
The bag's development was driven by our understanding that modern travelers need more than just storage space. Through careful consideration of leather properties and user needs, we incorporated multiple interior pockets for organized storage, including dedicated space for laptops and accessories. One of our proudest features is the ultra-soft leatherĀ handle, which we specifically engineered to provide superior grip comfort during extended carry times.
The Dagny Weekender showcases the natural beauty and durability of full-grain leather while offering practical features like a removableĀ shoulder strap, making it a perfect example of how traditional leather craftsmanship can meet contemporary needs.
Future of Leather: Innovations and Alternatives
As we look to the future, the leather industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by innovations and a growing demand for sustainable practices. Technological advancements are paving the way for more efficient production methods, which not only reduce waste but also minimize the environmental impact associated with traditionalĀ tanning processes. For instance, the development of plant-based tanning agents has emerged as a promising alternative, offering a more eco-friendly approach while maintaining the high quality and durability that leather is known for. Additionally, the rise of bio-fabricated and vegan leathers is reshaping consumer perceptions and preferences, providing ethical alternatives that appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. This fusion of tradition and innovation is not only revolutionizingĀ leather productionĀ but also ensuring that the industry can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world, ultimately creating a more sustainable future for leather goods.
However, it's important to note that while vegan leathers present ethical alternatives, research has raised concerns about their overall environmental impact. Synthetic vegan leather materials, in particular, may contribute to plastic pollution, highlighting the complexity of sustainability considerations in leather alternatives (D'Adamo et al., 2024; Kim & Kim, 2022).
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Tell If I'm Buying Genuine Leather?
Genuine leather has natural imperfections, a distinct smell, and feels warm to the touch. Look for terms like "full-grain" or "top-grain" and avoid "reconstituted" or "bonded" leather, which are lower quality alternatives.
What's The Best Way To Care For Leather Products?
Keep leather products away from direct sunlight and heat sources, clean them regularly with appropriateĀ leather cleaners, and condition them periodically to maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
Why Is Exotic Leather So Expensive?
Exotic leather, such as crocodile skin, commands higher prices due to limited availability, strict regulations on sourcing, complex processing requirements, and superior durability, often lasting 50-60 years with proper care.
Is Leather Production Environmentally Sustainable?
As a by-product of the meat industry, leather production helps reduce waste. However,Ā the tanning processĀ can have environmental impacts, leading many manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices and eco-friendlyĀ tanning methods.
How Does Weather Affect Leather Products?
Leather can be sensitive to extreme weather conditions. Excessive moisture can cause swelling and potential damage, while dry conditions can lead to cracking. Different types of leather, such as Morocco (goat leather), offer better weather resistance than others.
Conclusion
Leather is an amazing material that has been around for ages. It is regarded as a great investment that is suitable for everyday use. If well taken care of, it could last for ages! It is important to invest inĀ high-quality leatherĀ bags made from genuine Crazy Horse Leather. It is guaranteed to last for a long time, and even become more beautiful over time. For more high-quality Crazy Horse Leather Bags, visit our shop!
References
Choi, S., Lee, D., Zo, S., Sood, A., & Han, S. (2025). Gel-Based Approaches to Vegan Leather: Opportunities and Challenges in Mimicking Leather Properties. Gels, 11(6), 395. https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11060395
D'Adamo, I., Gagliarducci, M., Iannilli, M., & Mangani, V. (2024). Fashion Wears Sustainable Leather: A Social and Strategic Analysis Toward Sustainable Production and Consumption Goals. Sustainability, 16(22), 9971. https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229971
Dang, X., Qiu, H., Qu, S., Liang, S., Lian-xiang, F., & Wang, X. (2024). Ī²-Cyclodextrin-Based Chrome-Free Tanning Agent Results in the Sustainable and Cleaner Production of Eco-Leather. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 12(9), 3715-3725. https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c07446
Kellen, C., Zhafirah, L., & Kasih, T. (2025). Transforming Fast Fashion: Exploring Bio-Leather as a Sustainable Alternative. IOP Conference Series Earth and Environmental Science, 1488(1), 012039. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1488/1/012039
Kim, H., & Kim, H. (2022). Production of coffee-dyed bacterial cellulose as a bio-leather and using it as a dye adsorbent. PLOS ONE, 17(3), e0265743. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0265743
Oetopo, R., Despriliani, R., & Hazmi, F. (2023). The application of natural dyes from rambutan skin for eco-printing on tanned leather. Bahasa Dan Seni Jurnal Bahasa Sastra Seni Dan Pengajarannya, 51(1), 107-119. https://doi.org/10.17977/um015v51i12023p107
Quaratesi, I., Badea, E., CÄlinescu, I., Sardroudi, N., Zengin, G., Casas, C., ā¦ & Dalmases, A. (2024). Eco-Friendly Alternatives in Leather Production: Performance of Biodegradable Alginate-Based Retanned Leather Compared to Conventional Leathers and Plant-Based Materials. Applied Sciences, 14(22), 10263. https://doi.org/10.3390/app142210263
