There are a variety of leather types. The four most common kinds you will come across when purchasing leather goods are full grain leather, top grain leather, split leather, and bonded leather.
Full Grain Leather
Full grain leather is seen as the highest quality of leather and also the most expensive. It is sourced from the hide's top layer and is left in it's natural state. Being the grain is left untouched the leather may have a few natural blemishes. Full grain leather ages well and has proven to be more durable than its leather counterparts, thus the higher price tag.
Top Grain Leather
Top grain leather can be classified by it's smooth close to suede texture like our Bayonne Nubuck Leather Booties or by it's stained grain similar to our classic Jigsaw Leather Flats. The leather is made by splitting the hide's top layer in half and is smoothed to remove the natural imperfections. Since the leather has been smoothed down, top grain leather is more flexible and will stretch over time.
Split Grain, or Corrected Grain Leather
Familiarly referred to as genuine leather when shopping, the term is misleading and is used inconsistently often. Split grain leather is made from the layers of the hide that are left after the top has been split away. The grain is then manipulated to appear more natural. You can spot split grain leather if the grain has been embossed or spray painted. It also is more likely to have a harder exterior than top or full grain leather.
Bonded Leather, or Blended Leather
The cheapest and most common, bonded leather is made from the hide's left over pieces. They are bonded together by latex or polyurethane, then spray painted to look like top or full grain leather. This type of leather falls apart quickly and is the lowest grade of leather.
Shop smarter by being knowledgeable of what kind of leather you are buying, you can avoid problems like over paying or purchasing counterfeit products.
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