What Is Genuine Leather?

Genuine leather label is purposely ambiguous, and meant to mislead the consumer. The label actually tells the consumer what it is not, and should actually send off a buyer beware signal. It is most certainly

The typical leather hide is split into two parts. The surface layer or layer closest to the animal’s hair line is called the top-grain or full-grain layer. The lower layer is called the split layer. In our industry the full-grain leathers are the most desirable. The natural markings are attractive and consequently it is not necessary to correct the leather in any artificial manner. Some hides have more insect bits, or excessive animal scaring in which case it becomes necessary to correct the hide to give it more appeal.

There are many methods in correcting the leather hide. It can be buffed, sanded, plated or embossed with an artificial pattern. Some of these patterns are meant to simulate the best full-grain leather markings, while other embossed patterns are intended to give the hide an authentic print meant to look like genuine alligator, ostrich, snake, lizard, etc.

Belting leathers were developed in the industrial age, and are actually the most premium level of full-grain leathers. These durable hides were used to turn pulleys, to give you an idea of their impressive application and performance. Today some of the finest personal leather goods, business cases or luggage products are offered in belting leather for the consumer who is looking to enjoy a product for an entire lifetime and then pass on to their child.

Split leather is more affordable than top-grain or full-grain leather and consequently has many applications. This classification of leather describes the under layer that is split off from the surface layer. The split layer is void of any natural animal scaring that gives the hide the natural look of leather. Consequently, it may be far more difficult for the consumer to tell whether the product is leather or synthetic

I recommend that you ask the sales associate to describe the leather. If they are unable to describe the type of leather with confidence you might ask to speak to another associate who can provide more product knowledge. If none of the associates can impart their product knowledge, you may be in the wrong store.

However, in any evet if you see the ‘GENUINE LEATHER’ label in the product, you now have the education to make an informed decision. I hope that I have provided a basic guideline in helping you make a more informed decision when purchasing your next leather product.