The 5 Main Leather Grades

Full grain leather is often compared to a soft leather because it has more fat under the hide, giving it a more dense appearance and more natural sheen. Generally, only the outermost surface of the hide is removed; however, the inside grain is usually densely packed with stronger fibers; this produces a durable, tough, and more natural surface. When comparing leather surfaces, you will find that full grain is often found in high end Italian and some discount jackets. While there are several benefits of full grain leather, there are also some drawbacks that you should consider when choosing your next jacket.

One of the biggest drawbacks to full grain leathers is that they are not as easy to clean as other types. It is not uncommon for people to spend hours just trying to remove dirt and debris from these coats. Because of this, you may find that full-grain leather is not the best choice for everyday use, especially when purchasing shoes, coats, or any other high traffic merchandise that tends to accumulate dirt. Because of the difficulty that it presents, you may want to consider another option such as cowhide.

Antique Grain: There are many types of full grain leather made from hide which is centuries old. These types are much easier to clean and more durable than their contemporary counterparts. An example of an antique grain leather is full-grain veal, which is commonly used in old English clothing, coats, and more. The older pieces tend to have a sturdier surface than contemporary counterparts, making them a more sensible choice when looking for quality attire.

Split Grain: This is a less common form of full grain leather made from the hide of younger animals. In this process, more hairs are removed from each animal’s carcass, creating a smoother, more uniform texture than older pieces. This type is often used in shoe construction and is particularly popular for items that will be worn in colder climates. The smooth surface is most commonly seen on modern styles that utilize the split grain, with sometimes visible seams.

Shiny Leather: This is the opposite of aged leather. It is often blended with synthetic fibers to produce a shinier appearance. This type is often used in shoes, handbags, belts, and more. While shiny leather is often used as a protective covering, it can also be polished to create an appealing surface. This type of full grain leather is often used as a fashion accessory, although it is often found in business establishments where it serves a functional purpose.

While the leather qualities listed above are by no means all of the available options, they should serve as a basic starting point when shopping for high quality products. By taking a little time to learn about the different types and what each one has to offer, it will be easier for shoppers to find the best leather product for their needs. This will allow them to enjoy the many benefits that come with leather goods. For example, high quality products will not crack, tear, or wear down quickly, so items bought in this fashion will last for a long time.