Leather is a versatile material that has been used for centuries to create a wide range of products, including clothing, shoes, and accessories such as leather bags. However, not all leather is created equal, and understanding the different types of leather and their uses can help you make informed decisions when purchasing leather products. In this article, we will discuss the different types of leather and their uses, with a focus on leather bags.
Full-Grain Leather
Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather available and is made from the top layer of the animal hide. This is thick and most durable, also has a natural texture that develops over time. Full-grain leather is commonly used for high quality leather goods including bags like leather briefcases, satchel bags, and shoulder bags as it can withstand heavy use and last for years. Expect to pay a higher price for Full grain products, but then also they will last the longest.
Top-Grain Leather
Top-grain leather is the second highest quality leather and is made by splitting the top layer of the animal hide and removing any imperfections. This type of leather is thinner than full-grain leather but has a smoother and a nicer looking surface. This type of leather although bit weaker than full-grain leather, but still comes with good quality and is used for premium products. The products made from top leather are soft and supple, so women’s leather bags and leather tote bags etc are amde from it.
Suede Leather
Suede leather is made from the underside of the animal hide and has a soft, fuzzy texture. It is less durable than full-grain as it is missing the tough outer skin. But the very same weakness gives it more softness, mouldability and a thin texture. Which makes it suitable for items where a thinner material is required and other type of leathers would be too stiff, for example luggage, shoes etc. It is also used to create inner layer in several products to give them added strength or luxuriousness, like bags, luggage etc.
Nubuck Leather
Nubuck leather is similar to suede leather but is made by sanding the top layer of the animal hide. Being made from the top layer makes it more durable than Suede. While the sanding and buffing gives it more consistent look and texture. With the velvet-like texture and is commonly used for leather shoes, jackets, and even in leather bags, purses, and furniture to bring a luxurious look and feel.
Patent Leather
Patent leather is a type of leather that has a high-gloss, shiny finish, and it is generally water resistant. This type of leather is commonly used for formal shoes, bags and belts etc. Recently it has been used in high end sneakers as well.
Bonded Leather
Bonded leather is the lowest quality leather and is made by gluing together scraps of leather. It is the lowest quality and quantity of leather in the bonded mixture determines the quality. Basically used in place of real leather where cost could be a factor. Or used to create inners or linings for some clothes could be another use.
In conclusion, understanding the different types of leather and their uses can help you make informed decisions when purchasing leather bags. Full-grain leather is the highest quality and most durable type of leather and is commonly used for leather bags like leather briefcases, satchel bags, and shoulder bags. Top-grain leather is a soft and supple type of leather that is commonly used for leather bags like women’s leather bags and leather tote bags. Suede leather and nubuck leather are lightweight and have a casual or luxurious look and feel, respectively, and are commonly used for leather bags like leather sling bags and shoulder bags. Patent leather is a formal type of leather that is commonly used for leather bags like leather briefcases and satchel bags. Bonded leather is the lowest quality and least durable type of leather.
