Material Properties

1. What is leather?

   Leather is a natural, durable material made from the hides and skins of animals, primarily cow cattle, sheep, goats and buffalo. It is a by-product of the food industry that would otherwise go to waste.

2. What is the difference between leather and synthetic or 'vegan' leather?

   Leather is a natural material, while synthetic or 'vegan' leather is usually made from plastic materials like PVC, PU, polyester, and nylon, designed to mimic the appearance of leather.

3. How does leather compare to synthetic materials in terms of durability?

   Leather is a highly durable material that can withstand wear and tear better than many synthetic alternatives. It is less prone to scratches, scuffs, and fading over time.

4. How does leather perform in terms of breathability?

   Leather is a breathable material that allows air to circulate, making it comfortable to wear in various climates. This is due to the natural pores and grain structure of the material.

5. How does leather perform in terms of water resistance?

   Leather is naturally water-resistant, as the tanning process helps to seal the material and prevent moisture from penetrating. However, it is not completely waterproof and may stain or become damaged if exposed to excessive water.

6. How does leather perform in terms of temperature regulation?

   Leather is a natural insulator that helps to regulate body temperature. It keeps you warm in cool weather and cool in warm weather, making it a versatile material for various climates.

7. How does leather perform in terms of flexibility?

   Leather is a flexible material that can be molded and shaped into various designs. It is often used in clothing and accessories that require a certain level of movement and comfort.

8. How does leather perform in terms of scratch resistance?

   Leather is a durable material that is resistant to scratches and scuffs. However, the level of scratch resistance can vary depending on the type of leather and the quality of the tanning process.

9. How does leather perform in terms of stain resistance?

   Leather is naturally resistant to stains, as the tanning process helps to seal the material and prevent liquids from penetrating. However, it is important to clean up spills promptly and use appropriate cleaning products to maintain the material's stain resistance.

Environmental Impact

1. Is leather environmentally friendly?

   Yes, leather is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable material. It lasts a long time, ages well, and is repairable. At the end of life, leather will biodegrade in around 10-50 years, compared to 500-1000 years for plastic and fossil-fuel based materials.

2. What is the environmental impact of leather production?

   Leather production has a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic materials. It is a by-product of the food industry, and modern tanning processes use less water and energy while reducing chemical usage.

3. Does the leather industry use harmful chemicals?

   While leather manufacturing does use chemicals, the best available technology today does not require toxic chemistries. Tanneries are required to comply with strict standards such as EU REACH requirements and many have joined initiatives like ZDHC to reduce overall chemical usage and eliminate fossil fuel-derived chemicals.

4. Can leather be recycled?

   Yes, leather can be recycled at the end of its useful life. It can be shredded and used as a filler material in other products or broken down into its component parts for reuse.

5. What is the future of the leather industry?

   The future of the leather industry looks promising, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and transparency. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases, the leather industry is working to improve its practices and provide more sustainable options. This includes using renewable energy sources, reducing water usage, and implementing closed-loop systems to minimize waste.

6. How can I ensure I am purchasing sustainable leather?

   When purchasing leather products, look for certifications from organizations like the Leather Working Group. These certifications indicate that the leather has been produced using environmentally responsible practices. You can also research the brand's sustainability initiatives and look for transparency in their supply chain.

Animal Welfare

1. Are animals killed specifically for leather?

   No, the hides and skins used to make leather represent less than 1-2% of the overall value of the animal. Farmers do not raise or kill livestock for leather, and using less leather does not mean that fewer cattle are reared.

2. What happens to hides and skins if they are not used for leather?

   If hides and skins were not transformed into leather, they would need to be disposed of in some way, potentially ending up in landfills. Using hides and skins for leather ensures that this natural resource is utilized effectively.