Bottom line: don’t fall into the trap of buying “genuine leather” products that are anything but. If you’re looking for real leather products, we’d recommend finding a reliable source for full grain and top grain leather goods. Both are great options when it comes to quality and durability, but choosing between the two depends on what’s important to you. Top grain is typically less expensive than full grain leather and even offers greater stain resistance if the finish remains unbroken. But if you’re looking to invest a little more in a higher-quality leather that can last a lifetime—and look good doing it—then, full-grain leather is the way to go. And remember to give your leather bags, jackets, and accessories the love and care they need with our assortment of easy-to-use leather care products.
An Overview Guide to Leather Grades; Types of Leather.
Leather is a material loved by many for its flexibility and durability. It is made from tanning animal skins or hides, and many different animals are used to make leather. Leather has four basic grains or qualities: full-grain leather, top-grain leather, genuine leather, and corrected-grain leather.
Full-grain leather is characterized by its luxurious, smooth surface, and it has few, if any, flaws. It is the most popular type of leather. It has not been snuffed, sanded, or buffed to remove any natural marks or imperfections from its surface. Its fibers are stable and durable because the grain has not been removed. There is less moisture in the leather from prolonged contact as the grain is characteristic of breathing. This type of leather does not wear out easily. Instead, it develops a patina, which is a thin layer that protects the leather from damage from wearing or corroding; it also gives the leather an aesthetic look. It is used in making high-quality footwear and furniture.
It has two finished product types; Aniline and semi-aniline. Aniline leather is the most desirable finish in the manufacture of leather. It is exclusively dyed using soluble dyes without covering the top with insoluble pigment or topcoat paint. Semi-aniline has a thin protective coat, which protects it from staining and wearing out.
Top-grain leather has the second-highest leather quality of the high-end category of leather products. It is more pliable and thinner as its layer is separated away. Its surface is sanded, and a finish coat is added to make it less breathable with a plastic feel, making it seem cooler. Also, it develops a patina that protects it from damage and corrosion, making it last longer. It has better stain resistance and is less expensive than full-grain leather. Many people prefer this type of leather as it is durable and readily available.
Genuine leather is made from real leather. In a class of real leather products, genuine leather products are the lowest in quality. These products are made from leftover leather after the high-end products are made. The products manufactured from it do not look or feel as pleasing compared to those made from high-quality leather. Likewise, products made from genuine leather only last for a short time before they wear out. However, most people can afford this type of leather product as they are widely available.
Corrected-grain leather is also referred to as the lesser-known grain. It is a special type of leather that is corrected and fixed by experienced leatherworkers to improve its functionality and aesthetic qualities. Hides used in making it do not meet the required standards in making aniline and vegetable-tanned leather. An artificial grain has been embossed on the top and dressed out using dyes and stains. Imperfections are usually sanded off and then corrected. Corrected grain is used to make pigmented leather. This type of leather is usually readily available in stores and is more affordable.
CP Slippers Luxe collection is made from a single piece of Napa leather, which is then handcrafted and sewn to perfection for your feet’s comfort. In our next installment, we will introduce our readers to the art of vegetable tanning and answer the oft-asked question, “Is it Vegan?”
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