What is the difference between Full Grain, Top Grain, Genuine and Bonded leather?
All leather is NOT equal and it is important to understand the differences when you are buying leather products. Leather is a natural material. It is strong, breathes, insulates and molds to your body. It is a combination of beauty and strength. Just how beautiful and how strong, however, are influenced by the hide source, cut, and process. As leather fans, we want you to make the right choice. TPK only uses the finest Full Grain and Top Grain Leather.
- Full Grain Leather
Full Grain Leather is the best leather money can buy. It is taken from the top layer of hide and shows the natural markings and grain of the leather. The natural surface of full grain leathers burnish and beautify with use.
Full Grain Leather burnishes over time.
This is the exceptional leather used in the original Coach® thick leather goods and TPK® leather accessories. Top quality cow and water buffalo full grain leathers are extremely strong and durable. It is used in luxury briefcases and expensive saddles and bridles.
- Top Grain Leather
Top Grain Leather is the second highest grade of leather. Top grain leather is split from the top layer of blemished hide and is sanded and refinished. Top grain leather does not burnish and beautify with use. But it is as strong and durable as full grain leather.
- Genuine Leather
Genuine Leather is produced from the layers of hide that remain after the top is split off for the better grades. These weaker under layers are known as suede. (Don't be confused with the fuzzy finish also referred to as "suede.") The suede surface is usually refinished to resemble a higher grade. It can be smooth or rough.
Caution: The inferior quality of genuine leather becomes evident with use.
- Bonded Leather
Bonded Leather is leather's bottom. Suede scraps are ground together with glue and resurfaced in a process similar to vinyl manufacture. Bonded leather is weak and degrades quickly with use.
For More Leather Information: Leather Glossary (Indian Leather Industry) http://www.indianleatherportal.com/leather-glossary/