12 Different Types of Leather

A Deep Dive into the World of Leather
Let's take a closer look at the various types of leather and their unique properties:
Full-grain leather: The highest quality leather, full-grain leather is known for its durability, natural texture, and breathability. It's commonly used for high-end bags, such as the rainbow collection leather purses and the gold hands-themed leather purses.
Top-grain leather: With a smooth surface, top-grain leather is more affordable and still offers excellent quality. It's often used for baguette bags and other stylish accessories.
Genuine leather: A versatile and budget-friendly option, genuine leather is widely used for various products, including cowhide purses and small leather purses.

Split leather: Split from the lower layers of the hide, split leather is less durable but more affordable than full-grain and top-grain leather. It's often used for belts and budget-friendly bags.
Bonded leather: Made from a mix of leather scraps and synthetic materials, bonded leather is an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to genuine leather. It's commonly used for wallets and book covers.

Suede leather: With a soft, velvety texture, suede is made from the underside of the hide and is popular for shoes, bags, and jackets.

Napa leather: Known for its softness and pliability, Napa leather is often used for gloves, wallets, and upholstery.
Aniline leather: Treated with aniline dye for a natural finish, aniline leather is prized for its luxurious feel and rich color.
Crazy Horse leather: This type of leather is characterized by a distressed, vintage look and is commonly used for rugged bags and accessories.
Patent leather: Featuring a glossy, shiny finish, patent leather is often used for dress shoes, handbags, and belts.
PU leather: A synthetic alternative to genuine leather, PU leather is made from a combination of polyurethane and fabric, making it a popular choice for affordable cell phone bags and other accessories.
Nubuck leather: With a soft, velvety surface similar to suede, nubuck leather is made from the top layer of the hide and is known for its durability and luxurious feel. It's often used for high-end shoes, bags, and furniture.
Pro Tip: To ensure your leather items stay in top condition, be sure to follow proper care and maintenance guidelines. Learn more about how to clean leather purses and how to remove oil stains from leather.
Choosing the Right Leather for Your Needs
When selecting leather for your next project or purchase, consider the following factors:
- Purpose: Determine the primary use of the leather item. For example, choose a more durable leather, such as full-grain or top-grain, for everyday bags like black leather baguette bags for women or crossbody cell phone purses.
- Budget: Your budget will play a significant role in your choice of leather. More affordable options include genuine leather, split leather, and PU leather.
- Style: Consider the desired aesthetic of your leather item. For a luxurious look, opt for aniline or Napa leather, while suede and nubuck offer a softer, more casual feel.
For more information on leather goods, styles, and care tips, be sure to explore the extensive collection of articles and products on Zornna.com.
Author: Seuruyalvi - Chief Designer
My name is Seuruyalvi, as the chief designer at ZORNNA, I am responsible for overseeing the creative direction of the brand, from conceptualization to final product design.