Split Leather
What is Split Leather?
Split leather is a type of genuine leather derived from the lower layers of an animal hide, which is separated from the top layer during the leather production process.
When a hide is too thick for specific applications, it is split into multiple layers, with the top layer being referred to as top-grain or full-grain leather, and the lower layers being called split leather.
Types of Split Leather
Environmental Considerations
Resource consumption: Like all genuine leather products, the production of split leather requires resources such as water, land, and energy. The environmental impact of leather production is a concern for some consumers.
Chemical use: The leather tanning process, which split leather undergoes, can involve the use of chemicals that may pose environmental risks. However, alternative eco-friendly tanning methods, such as vegetable tanning, are becoming more popular.
Waste reduction: By utilizing the lower layers of the hide, split leather production helps reduce waste in the leather industry, as it makes use of parts of the hide that might otherwise be discarded.
Role of Split Leather in the Global Leather Market
Market share: Split leather holds a significant share of the global leather market due to its affordability and versatility. It caters to a wide range of consumer needs, from budget-conscious shoppers to those seeking genuine leather products with unique textures and finishes.
Niche markets: Split leather, such as suede and nubuck, has created niche markets within the leather industry, where specialized products are crafted to cater to specific consumer preferences and trends.
Industry dynamics: The demand for split leather products influences the dynamics of the global leather industry, affecting supply chains, production methods, and market pricing.
The Future of Split Leather
Evolving consumer preferences: As consumer preferences evolve and become more focused on sustainability, transparency, and ethical production, split leather producers may need to adapt their practices to align with these values and maintain market share.
Technological advancements: The adoption of new technologies and innovative production methods could lead to the development of split leather products with enhanced properties, such as improved durability, water resistance, or unique textures and finishes.
Growing demand for leather alternatives: The increasing popularity of leather alternatives, such as vegan leather and other synthetic materials, could impact the demand for split leather products in certain market segments. To stay competitive, split leather producers may need to differentiate their products and highlight the unique benefits of split leather.
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.
Read more
What is Bonded Leather? Bonded leather, sometimes referred to as a "patchwork" leather, is a unique material crafted by fusing leather scraps and fibers with synthetic binders. Born from the desire...
Read more
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 kn...
Read more
