Leather shoes are considered to be the best shoes. They are stylish, durable, and classic. Generally, luxury leather goods are always trendy. I’m sure your grandfather and father had leather belts and shoes; of course, your mother had leather handbags. Leather products are classic and trendy at the same time. You can buy leather products with no doubt as you are going to use them for sure and most likely, you will use them for years.
The material leather is so amazing. Every pore and scar on an animal is a window into its past. One of the most popular uses of leather that humanity has had from the beginning of time is in the manufacture of shoes. Actually, leathers from various animals have varying characteristics. This indicates that there are numerous varieties of shoe leather, which might be difficult to understand for the majority of us.
The selection and quality of leather are the second most crucial factors in shoe design after construction. In essence, leather is skin obtained from numerous animals and has a variety of qualities. For the final product, each leather goes through a number of processes. While some of them are more delicate and appropriate for more formal settings, others are suitable for rougher use and are scuff-resistant. Suede is a supple leather that doesn’t like water and makes a great summer or casual shoe.
Types of leather in shoes
Calfskin
The most typical material utilized to create high-quality men’s shoes is calfskin. It is derived from young calves’ skin, which is typically older than three months, as its name suggests. “Velum,” a name that comes from Latin, is another term for calfskin. Interesting contrasts exist between European and North American calves. Due to the latter’s breeding practices and use, its hide is often twice as big and of higher quality.
It is the ideal leather for most luxury dress shoes because of its very tight grain and few flaws. Even though the grain is particularly fine, it is both strong and flexible. This is so because calf fibers are thick and stronger than those of older animals or normal cowhide. Depending on the type, one decent hide of calfskin can provide enough leather for up to ten pairs of shoes.
Despite the fact that calfskin is prone to scratches and scuffs, applying the right polish and buffing can conceal these blemishes and produce a beautiful patina over time. There are many colors and finish options because it accepts dye quite easily. An aniline finish and burnishing both contribute to a high gloss. Additionally, it very effectively conforms to your foot, which is crucial for comfort.
Scotch Grain
Scotch Grain leather, also referred to as Pebble Grain, was created in Scotland. Old Scots invented the texturizing technique that would shrink the leather to produce the distinctive pitted rhino-like appearance using the grain from old whiskey barrels. Nowadays, an older calfskin is typically embossed with the design. Scotch Grain is more weather resistant than other leathers thanks to this tough finish, which has made it a popular option for informal English shoes.
Shell Cordovan
Shell Cordovan, one of the rarest and most durable shoe materials on earth, is frequently referred to as the “holy grail” of leather. The shell is taken from the horse’s hindquarters, where the pores are so dense that the material is naturally resistant to water and stretch and ripples rather than creasing and folding at stress spots.
All of these factors combine to produce a shoe that, with proper care, can last for many years.
The lavish character or someone who truly wants to stand out is usually the target market for the majority of the leathers in the luxury exotic category. Additionally, especially if you work in a more traditional company, they are noisy and not a businessman’s first choice.