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Croc, Gator and Caiman Hides

How to Snap up Quality Reptilian Leathers

While protected under strict laws, the crocodilian group is an excellent leather choice. Based on premium quality, caiman is at the bottom, crocodile sits in the middle (although it’s a high-fashion favorite), and alligator is considered the best. As accessories, they all feature distinctive patterns that, to experts, will give away exactly which species they came from. These exotic leathers are timeless style choices that will last for years.

The American alligator is found in the southeastern U.S. Harvested skins come from the wild and from farm-raised gators. Skins are supple, yet distinctively textured with the softest goods coming from the belly area. Caimans are a smaller species and are native to South America. Tough “teeth” embed their skin, which makes it a less flexible leather choice. Sections from the belly, however, are much more flexible. Caiman skins are an economical choice, but are extremely popular for a wide variety of goods.

Several crocodile species, both freshwater and saltwater, are used in leather production. These are considered the top of the heap when it comes to high fashion. They remain a favorite of the most recognizable fashion brands and are always at a premium.

Quality and grade are more important than the species you select. Most experts believe the tanning processes for caiman remains somewhat limited. Some sellers will try to pawn off caiman as alligator. Also, there are a lot of products out there called croco-leathers. These are actually faux leatherettes that can mimic the real thing, but won’t last nearly as long.

In addition to the neck and belly areas, the “hornback” (a ridged line of scales along the back) is also used for products. The least desired area is skin from the tail, which may exhibit some scarring. The items you choose should be labeled by grade, species, and origin.

Photo courtesy Wing-Chi Poon, Wikipedia CC license

Ostrich Leather Gives Us Goose Bumps

It’s In the Texturing

Ostrich is among the finest of leathers, namely for its distinctive pattern and durability. In most cases, you can expect to throw caution to the wind in pricing, too. This fashionable hide features a bumpy texturing that is the result of the bird’s large quills. As an exotic, it gives the wearer a step up in sophistication and great looks.

Valued for its suppleness, ostrich is perhaps the best among all leathers. Its strength makes it a popular choice for boots that can take quite a bit of wear while remaining handsome in surface finish. Various parts of the bird are used for leather, from necks to legs. The quill-dimpled skin, however, is prime. For women’s fashion accessories, ostrich is the ultimate in handbags (think Prada, Hermes, Gucci). Of course, be ready to open up that ostrich wallet and shell out between $2,000 and $6,000-plus dollars.

The business of ostrich hides is highly regulated with skins coming from sustainable South African resources. While the bird’s meat is also used, skin is still the most valuable part. Some parts of the skins are smooth and are not rated as valuable as textured portions, which are called the “crown.” Grading also indicates whether any flaws exist. While you can find less expensive ostrich goods, expect to see sub-standard skins. “Super Premium” is at the top followed by “Premium,” Grades 1-5, and then “Lesser Grade.” When shopping, it’s good to know which grade you’re getting.

Just like other exotic leathers, ostrich requires some care and protection. Keep accessories away from direct sunlight when not in use and avoid exposure to oily products or spotting. A light coating of protectant can provide some water resistance.

Photo courtesy Jzking, Wikipedia CC license

Leather Takes a Plunge

In the Water, That is - With Sharkskin

Stingray leather is nothing new, but it seems to be getting renewed attention through upscale retailers. European products are known as “shagreen,” perhaps to avoid those who oppose such things. Look around and you’ll find it on just everything from wallets to knife sheaths and even as cue stick wraps. It’s a durable leather, perhaps even the toughest as it is referred to as “immortal.” Classified as luxury goods, it’s going to be a bit pricy, too.

These aquatic creatures are in no danger of extinction, so no worries there. As a food product, stingray serves a dual purpose, too. The skin, said to be as much as 25 times tougher than cowhide, can be dyed any color, but the majority of products are black. Texturing resembles beading and some skins display whiter areas, which are calcium deposits. As light hits the surface, the rounded beads appear to glisten from some angles.

In earlier times, stingray was used by warriors for body armor. That’s how tough it is and it simply won’t fray or break down. Think of how the stingray’s scales must survive in water and you get an idea. With a random crisscrossing of fibers, it is also resistant to flames. But as rugged as it sounds, it’s a chic choice for everyday and special occasion accessorizing. Boots, handbags, and belts are among the choice pieces available.

As members of the fish family, stingrays are wild caught and cannot be farm raised. That contributes to their higher cost. But, with potential decades of use, they may very well be worth the expense.

Photo courtesy of Pellemagna, Wikipedia CC license

Python Leather a Hot Fashion Trend

With PETA and other Detractors, Of Course

Wearing or showing off python leather is likely to get you in trouble with some folks. However, it’s one of the hot fashion trends of this season and probably has been a favorite in some circles much longer. Most major designers have jumped on the bandwagon, incorporation this distinctively patterned skin into their collections. From clothing to boots, handbags, and wallets, it’s the go-to trend for now.

While importers swear python leathers come from farms, detractors are saying this isn’t true. I won’t debate those claims as reputable companies rely on CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna) certificates to ensure they’re getting farm-raised goods.

The beauty of python leather is obviously appealing as are other exotics. The list of accessories is long: phone cases, wine totes, watch straps, headwear, belts, jewelry, and jackets. There are also a variety of colors and treatments you can choose including metallic finishes and painting processes along with a “decoloring” that fades the pattern. Shinier patents and matte finishes are also trend choices that change from year to year.

Python hides aren’t actually harvested from molted skin as those would be too flimsy. Like other leathers, they’re actual skins that undergo the same tanning processes to make them soft and durable. Maintenance is similar to other leathers with a little added precaution. Don’t leave python leather accessories in the sun and avoid using python goods on rainy days. They’ll absorb moisture, which can darken the surfaces. Avoid using any type of cleaning products.

Photo credit: Oceancetaceen Alice Chodura under Wikipedia CC license.

Rawhide - A Stiffer Choice in Untanned Skin

Like it Tough? Choose Rawhide!

Some will argue that rawhide isn’t really leather as it hasn’t been tanned for softness and flexibility. Rawhide is still animal skin, though, with the hairs removed. It’s been stretched and dried to stiffness and has been used for centuries in a variety of ways. You’ll see it used frequently in southwestern style furniture and when it has been softened a bit (yes, like leather), then it’s used in moccasins and even clothing.

In earlier times, rawhide was used by Native Americans for their drums, footwear, and robes. It goes back to the Stone Age and earlier, though, as the process of tanning hides hadn’t yet become an alternative for the masses. Tough strips of cattle hides were braided and eventually became elaborate accessories as horse bridles and ropes. Rawhide is also available from a variety of animals including bear, deer, and kangaroo.

Rawhide is also a popular do-it-yourself choice and many folks even choose to make their own from freshly killed animals. In its freshest state (just after a kill), it’s called “green” hide and this is the best time to scrape the hide clean. Then, it can be soaked in lime and stretched out to dry to its final stiffness. Cut into sections, it makes excellent seating and backs for chairs, especially if attached to the frame with braided strips. It’s also a great choice for western style lamp shades. You can even paint it or create scenes on the surfaces.

When you want to give your living space a “rustic chic” look, rawhide is the perfect choice. And if you don’t feel like going out and getting your own hides in the wild, there are plenty of stores where you’ll find furnishings and accessories.

Photo: Painted rawhide courtesy Morguefile

Leather Gloves - Protection or Style?

Leather gloves are not only for looking good, they’re the protection of choice when it comes to manual labor. During the winter, gloves are a necessity that can be practical or come bundled with style. Work gloves have to be rugged and breathable, while still providing dexterity. There are so many styles to choose from, but it also helps to know what type of leather the gloves you’re wearing is made from. Let’s take a look at the options.

Fashion Gloves

As an accessory, stylish leather gloves are naturally thinner, although durable. They’ll stretch a little to conform and flatter the shape of hands and are soft as butter. They’re also available in a variety of colors for men and women. The leathers you’ll find in this group include calfskin and lambskin. Cabretta, or hairsheep, leather is an even finer choice. Its origins are sheep that grow hair instead of wool and contains a natural suppleness along with a comfortable elasticity. Cashmere linings add a little warmth without bulk.

Leather Gloves for Warmth

For warmth, leather gloves need to be lined, of course. They also need to be made from hardier leathers. Sheepskin with fleece lining is a popular choice that’s more casual and often referred to as country style. If you’re driving a lot, you’ll want a roughened or textured palm, but some leathers have a natural texturing depending on the tanning process. Deerskin is also good because it remains flexible even when wet. Avoid cotton liners for any leather gloves you’ll be wearing through the winter. Cotton absorbs perspiration, making your hands feel colder.

Work Gloves

You’ll usually have three different choices when it comes to leather work gloves: pig, cow, or goat. Cowhide is the toughest choice because hides are naturally thicker, but can limit finger mobility. Gloves from cowhide are generally warmer and water repellant while providing breathability. Goatskin is somewhat thinner and water resistant, but not as tough. Pigskin falls last in durability, but the breathable hide reduces sweating palms. It’s also a more common - and economical - choice in leather gloves.

Just like in other leather goods, you get what you pay for. My favorites are soft Italian leathers for looks and thicker fleece-lined gloves for the coldest weather.

Leather Wallets Protect Your Identification

Built-In Blockers Prevent Lifting from High-Tech Pickpockets

It's no longer a matter of protecting your wallet from getting lifted. Thieves are now stealing information without laying a hand on these essential pocket or handbag accessories. What does that have to do with leather? Leaders in leather products are getting on the bandwagon in defending your most valuable property, including credit cards, passports, and government issued ID cards.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) has become a common way to quickly read and process information. Many credit cards, debit cards, and other types of cards with personal data are now RFID enabled for use with scanning equipment. In fact, companies are moving away from magnetic strips that require swiping to this more time-saving process.

That's a big jump in successful retrieval for pickpockets as well. With the advent of handheld RFID readers, all a thief has to do is come within a few feet or inches of your body and they can access all that information tucked in your wallet. The encoding is also clonable so they can transfer all the details to their own cards. It's a high-tech operation that's also easy to implement. Even better, the owner won't know information has been lifted until it's too late.

Leather wallets are at the forefront in stylish accessories that also include RFID blockers. Some have a metal sheath inside while others incorporate mesh that eliminates access from both high-frequency and low-frequency readers. You simply can't beat leather for its longevity and now you can sport a fashionable protector that safeguards the most vital details.

Leather: Take it Along for the Ride

History of Biker Gear

The roar of a bike means there's leather about to follow. At least, that's what many of us think. It's true, of course, we do tie in leather apparel with those who ride motorcycles. Don't forget the shiny metal studs and chains. Of course, there's good reason for wearing leather on the road, even in warmer weather.

While tougher nylon fabrics and kevlar are catching up, it's still hard to ignore the benefits of leather biker jackets, pants, chaps, and gloves. For one thing, leather deflects kicked up debris and the material is still a preference for many who ride mainly on asphalt. Also, if a rider goes into a slide, leather goes right along without dragging and causing even more bodily damage. Denim, on the other hand will grab pavement or rocky ground and break through.

The Motorcycle Jacket's Early Days

Riders first adopted aviator styles, but by the early 1900s, manufacturers were paying attention to dedicated apparel. Schott was perhaps the first along with Buco (formally known as the Joseph Buegeleisen Company). A few short decades later, Harley-Davidson, Indian Motorcycles and even Sears became brand leaders in leather gear for riders. They all produced distinctive styles for both men and women. Sporting plenty of storage pockets with silver zippers, these were the ultimate bad boys. So bad, in fact, that jackets were banned in some schools during the 1950s. That was thanks to Marlon Brando in "The Wild Ones."

Of course, the fact remains that leather is still about the sexiest apparel you can own. You don't have to be a biker to appreciate its great looks and its practicalities.

Vehicle Interiors - What's that Leather Type?

The Smell of New Leather is Nice

There's nothing more exciting that sliding into a new car with a leather interior. The smell is unmistakable and one you hope will never go away. But, of course, it will. No one ever really questions what type of leather is used in cars. We find it a critical point when purchasing furniture, so why wouldn't it be just as important to know what we're getting before signing off on a new vehicle? Here's the low-down on what you may be getting.

In most cases, the leather used for vehicle interiors is what is known as "fully finished." It may also be listed as "top-coated" or "pigmented." It's still real leather, but it's been surface protected - and perhaps even painted - to provide a uniform appearance that's also more durable that the more expensive untreated leathers. You can still enjoy that new smell along with the luxurious feel of a taut leather seat.

But is the seat all leather?

Not necessarily. Just like interior furnishings, some manufacturers incorporate vinyl panels on the sides. The seat is billed as genuine leather, but if you read the smaller details in vehicle descriptions, you may uncover the truth. It's a less expensive alternative but those vinyl panels may also break down a lot faster.

Other automotive leathers

Other types of interior leather names you may come across include nubuck and aniline. These are generally found in some higher-end brands, but you may also pay the price in longevity. These generally haven't received a top coating, so they'll absorb stains and body oils over time. In addition, they'll be prone to show more wear and can even fade faster when vehicles are left in the sun.

Even though you can't change the leather choice in an on-the-lot vehicle, at least it helps to know what you're getting.

Caring for Leather Furniture

Choosing the Right Products for the Right Leathers

Leather furniture requires some maintenance. Care is often minimal to keep gear in its best condition and many different cleaners are on the market to make the job even easier. The type of leather (aniline, semi-aniline, bonded, etc.) used requires various treatment options.

First, some precautions regarding leather furniture

Avoid placement in direct sunlight if possible to avoid premature fading.

Keep pets' nails trimmed to avoid tearing and don't let them drool on the surface. Animal saliva is an acidic that can harm leather.

Avoid using sharp instruments, nail polish, nail polish remover, and standard cleaning solvents around leather furniture.

Natural oils from hair and skin tend to darken leather.

Dyes in clothing colors and print from newspapers can also affect leather.

Maintenance suggestions

A weekly wipe-down (more often in an active family area) with a soft damp cloth will work wonders.

Water-based cleaners are generally safe for attacking stains that are also water-based. They're often recommended for aniline leathers and those that are pigment-dyed.

Protectancts provide a barrier against water-based and oil-based stains. Applied on a regular basis, they're also an excellent protector against everyday grime.

Always follow furniture manufacturer's instructions for cleaning leather and read product labels carefully. In some cases, retailers include starter cleaning kits with furniture purchases. It's also wise to apply a small portion of cleaner in an unseen spot first to see the results.

Some coated leathers will respond to cleaning better than aniline and semi-aniline upholstery. For natural hides, such stains as lipstick and ink will be difficult, if not impossible, to remove.

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