Types of Leather
Explore common leather types and understand how the hide, grain and finish can influence the final material.
Read the overview →Rexo Leather Factory · Since 1998
Understand leather. Choose with confidence.
Leather is not one-size-fits-all. Learn how different types, grades, tanning methods, finishes and care practices can affect the look, feel and everyday use of a leather product.
Explore the GuideTHE REXO LEATHER GUIDE
Practical knowledge for better leather choices.
Whether you are choosing a jacket, a pair of boots, a bag or a smaller leather accessory, understanding the material helps you ask better questions and make a more informed decision. This guide is designed as a starting point.
Leather Grades
Learn the difference between terms such as full-grain, top-grain and other commonly used leather descriptions.
Understand the terms →Tanning & Finishing
Discover why tanning methods and surface finishes can change the character and maintenance needs of leather.
Explore tanning →Leather for Jackets
What to consider when choosing leather for a jacket, from appearance and weight to feel and intended use.
Explore jackets →Leather for Boots
Consider leather characteristics, fit, finish and intended use when choosing leather footwear.
Explore boots →Leather for Bags
Learn what to think about when selecting leather for work, travel, everyday and custom bags.
Explore bags →Leather Care
Simple principles for cleaning, conditioning, storing and protecting leather products in everyday use.
Learn the basics →Leather Glossary
Decode common leather terms so you can understand product descriptions and discuss requirements clearly.
View key terms →Custom Leather
See how material, colour, dimensions, hardware, stitching and finish can come together in a custom order.
Customise with Rexo →THE MATERIAL
Different leather. Different character.
Leather can vary considerably depending on the animal hide, part of the hide, tanning method, finishing and how it is prepared for a particular product.
There is no single leather that is automatically the right choice for every jacket, boot or bag. The best option depends on the look, feel, use and requirements of the customer.
Cow LeatherOften selected for products where a balance of structure, durability and a distinctive leather character is desired.
Buffalo LeatherKnown for a more substantial feel in many applications and commonly considered for rugged leather products.
Goat & Sheep LeatherOften valued for their different combinations of softness, flexibility, weight and surface character.
Suede & NubuckSurface treatments create a softer, more tactile appearance that needs appropriate care.
LEATHER TERMS
Full-grain, top-grain and more.
Full-Grain
Refers to leather where the natural grain surface is retained. Natural marks and variations may remain visible.
Top-Grain
Generally refers to leather from the outer part of the hide that has undergone some surface treatment or correction.
Genuine Leather
The term is widely used in the market but does not, by itself, tell you the exact quality, grade or finishing of a leather.
Important: terminology can vary between suppliers and markets. Ask about the actual leather, construction and finish rather than relying on a label alone.
TANNING & FINISHING
How leather gets its character.
Tanning converts a raw animal hide into a stable leather material. Different tanning approaches can produce different characteristics, and finishing can further influence colour, surface appearance, feel and maintenance.
Vegetable tanning uses plant-based tannins and is often associated with a distinctive natural character and the possibility of developing a patina over time.
Chrome tanning is widely used and can produce leather with a broad range of colours, softness and finishes.
The right choice depends on the product and the desired result. Rexo can help customers discuss suitable options for their individual requirements.
LEATHER CARE
Good leather deserves good care.
Keep It Clean
Remove surface dust and dirt gently. Avoid aggressive household cleaners unless the leather manufacturer specifically recommends them.
Condition Carefully
Use a suitable leather conditioner when appropriate, and test any care product on a discreet area first.
Store Properly
Keep leather away from prolonged direct heat and excessive moisture. Jackets and bags generally benefit from sensible support and airflow.
LEATHER GLOSSARY
Words you will often hear.
Grain
The natural surface pattern of a hide. Grain can be retained, lightly corrected or heavily finished depending on the leather.
Patina
A change in appearance that can develop through use, handling, light and time, depending on the leather and finish.
Hide
The skin of a larger animal, commonly used as a general term for the raw material before it becomes finished leather.
Finish
The treatment applied to the surface of leather to influence appearance, colour, feel and protection.
NEED HELP CHOOSING?
Talk to Rexo about your requirements.
If you have a particular leather product or design in mind, visit our Shivajinagar store or contact us by phone or WhatsApp. We can discuss the available options with you.
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