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Originally Posted by PJ
What's the reason? Do you actually know the differences in the leather, other than the branding?
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Here's a short primer
1. Start with
this Saddleback Leather link explaining the differences between the parts of hide used to make the leather.
Summary:
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Full Grain is the best, no contest. And a warning: many products say "genuine leather," and technically they are, but that means they are likely bonded or top grain, both of which are inferior to full grain and the latter of which is just garbage.
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Fully tanned leather is better than non-fully tanned leather.
2. Check out
this Die Workwear link to see the imperfections that can mar certain hides.
Summary:
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Better jacket makers will avoid hides that have scars, tick marks, and fat wrinkles. Cheaper ones will keep these imperfections since leather dye can make them less apparent.
3. Common hide types: (quoted from
reddit):
Quote:
Cowhide, Steerhide, and HorseHide - All stiff types that are designed to be heavy and durable. These will last you eons, but may not be as supple to the touch.
Calf skin similar to cowhide but slightly softer. Meant to be broken in and is still considered heavy.
Lamb Very light and soft type of leather. The feeling of this will almost feel like cloth or silk like. Many people may not even believe it's leather because of it's soft hand feel.
Goat Softer than calf, but not as soft as lamb. Will be much more porous and heavy grain. Very good versatile all around type of leather.
Buffalo and Bison more heavy leather types. Used for protection and functionality. Will last eons.
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4. Also consider hide thickness,
tanning method, and the construction of the garment when it comes to overall quality.
Of course, retail pricing is still heavily dependent on brand. A Burberry jacket will likely have better leather than a Danier, but you can definitely bet the price difference is also a function of the brand's status.