Leather Types We Use
1. Leather Grades
Leather quality varies greatly depending on which part of the hide is used and how it’s processed:
Full Grain Leather
The highest grade of leather, using the entire thickness of the hide without sanding the surface.
Features: Maximum strength, breathability, and natural character. Ages beautifully with a rich patina.
Common Thickness: 6–9 oz (2.4–3.6 mm).
Top Grain Leather
Slightly sanded and corrected to remove imperfections while keeping most of the strength.
Features: Smooth surface, durable, and more uniform in appearance.
Common Thickness: 4–6 oz (1.6–2.4 mm).
“Genuine Leather” (Why We Avoid It)
Often made from leftover scraps that are bonded together.
Issues: Weak structure, prone to peeling and delamination. Not suitable for high-quality gear.
2. Leather Types
Different tanning processes and finishes produce unique characteristics:
Vegetable-Tanned Leather
- Tanning: Natural plant tannins, eco-friendly and develops a rich, unique patina over time.
- Use: Belts, sheaths, structured gear, belts and pouches.
- Thickness: 6–10 oz (2.4–4.0 mm).
Chrome-Tanned Leather
- Tanning: Chromium salts for flexibility and water resistance. Maintains smooth, uniform look with minimal aging effect
- Use: Bags, outdoor gear, items requiring softness.
- Thickness: 3–6 oz (1.2–2.4 mm).
Waxed / Pull-Up Leather
- Finish: Infused with oils and waxes, giving color shifts when flexed and water proof.
- Use: Rugged bags, boots, jackets, sunglass cases
- Thickness: 4–6 oz (1.6–2.4 mm).
Suede
- Process: Inner layer of the hide, buffed for softness.
- Use: Accents, liners, soft-touch surfaces.
- Thickness: 2–4 oz (0.8–1.6 mm).
Stamped Leather
- Process: Leather (usually full grain, top grain, or chrome-tanned) that is heat-pressed or embossed with decorative patterns.
- Use: Belts, wallets, bag panels, armor accents, and other pieces where function meets style.
- Thickness: 4–8 oz (1.6–3.2 mm), depending on the base leather.
Vegan Leather and why we wont use it
What It Is: A synthetic alternative to animal leather, usually made from polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or plant-based materials.
Features: Lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to clean, but generally less durable than real leather.
Common Thickness: 0.8–1.5 mm (varies by type and backing).
Common Uses: Fashion accessories, upholstery, bags, and low-impact products.
Considerations: Does not develop patina, prone to cracking and peeling over time, and often less eco-friendly than marketed (depending on the material source and finish).
3. Leather Thickness Guide (by Weight)
| Ounces | Millimeters | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 2–3 oz | 0.8–1.2 mm | Wallet interiors, light pouches |
| 4–5 oz | 1.6–2.0 mm | Bags, straps, light sheaths |
| 6–7 oz | 2.4–2.8 mm | Belts, heavy bags, holsters |
| 8–10 oz | 3.2–4.0 mm | Tool belts, heavy gear, armor |
Why This Matters
Choosing the right leather type and thickness means the difference between a lifetime piece and something that falls apart. At Pyr & Hide, we only use premium hides of Top grain , Veg tanned or Chrome tanned leather. Never bonded, vegan or “genuine leather.”