Types of Genuine Leather: A Complete Guide by The Tsuru
Leather comes in different types that are not all the same. There are many types of genuine leather, each with its own traits, uses, and beauty. Full-grain leather is rugged and attractive, while suede is soft and luxurious. You can be sure that you're getting a good product at The Tsuru because we teach our customers about the materials we use.
We'll talk about the most common types of real leather, their traits, and why they matter when shopping for high-end leather goods in this guide.
1. Full-Grain Leather
- Unprocessed surface
- Extremely durable and strong
- Develops a beautiful patina over time
Why We Love It at The Tsuru: We use full-grain leather in our high-end bags and items because it has a story to tell, looks great with age, and is the most true way to make leather goods.
2. Top-Grain Leather
The next best type of leather is top-grain, which is a little smoother than full-grain. We sand the surface to get rid of any flaws and then add a finish coat to make it look smooth and even.
Key Features:
- Softer and more flexible than full-grain
- Slightly less breathable due to finishing
- Easier to maintain and clean
Uses: Great for belts, wallets, and backpacks that need to be strong and have a smooth surface.
3. Genuine Leather (Corrected-Grain Leather)
This word can mean different things. Genuine leather is real leather, but not as good as top-grain or full-grain leather. What's left of the hide after the top has been cut off is used to make it. It is common to shine and fix these layers to make them look like they are from a higher-end brand.
Key Features:
- Affordable and widely available
- Often used for fashion accessories
- May not be as durable or age as well
The Tsuru Tip: Genuine leather is an excellent choice for stylish leather goods that won't break the bank, but it might not last as long as higher-quality leather.
4. Split Leather
There are layers of hide below the top grain that have been "split" off. This is called split leather. It's often used in suede and nubuck and can be textured to look like full-grain leather.
Key Features:
- More affordable
- Softer, sometimes fuzzy texture
- Less durable and prone to wear
Best For: Small bags or cosmetic items that don't need to be used often.
5. Suede
Suede is a soft, smooth type of split leather. It feels like silk and looks expensive, but it is more likely to get stained or damaged by water.
Key Features:
- Soft and stylish
- Lightweight
- Requires delicate care
Style Note: We love using suede for lining and limited-edition pieces because they look and feel so high-end.
6. Nubuck
Nubuck is not the same as leather; it is made from the outside of the hide, which makes it stronger. It is scraped to create a velvety feel that looks like leather but lasts longer.
Key Features:
- Stronger than suede
- Luxurious matte finish
- May darken over time
What makes it unique: Nubuck is just the right amount of rough and smooth, which makes it great for trendy items.
Choosing the Right Leather for You
When choosing a leather item, think about what's most important to you:
- Durability: Go for full-grain or top-grain
- Style & Affordability: Genuine or split leather may fit your needs
- Luxury Look: Suede and nubuck offer elegance with a soft touch
To ensure every consumer finds something that suits their ideals, lifestyle, and taste, we at The Tsuru produce items utilising a range of these leathers.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the different kinds of genuine leather can help you make smart, long-lasting purchases. The leather you pick is essential, whether you're looking for a stylish backpack, a wallet you can count on, or a belt just right for you.
Look through our carefully chosen styles to find classic, classy leather that is expertly made by hand just for you.
