'Genuine Leather'...Not quite what it seems

[Dos_Box]

Found out about this the other day whilst looking for a new watch strap. Not all leather is created is create equal (well, we all knew that) but then again not all leather is what it seems!

 

https://www.businessinsider.com/leather-buying-guide-2014-12?r=US&IR=T

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMIEbyfcSmc

 

Hope you found this useful and something to consider when you are looking to buy something nice!

[unixman_again]

I have a sheep leather trench coat which is fab. I also had a cows leather trench coat, which was very heavy. Cows leather is great for motorbike leathers (maximum thickness, maximum protection), but for normal coats sheep or goat leather is the go IMO. Much lighter to wear and just as warm.

 

Leather clothes will last pretty much for ever. My motorbike trousers are about 40 years old. My motorbike jacket it around 30, but I can't get my arms in the sleeves any more. (See my life story below.) I've just retired a 25 year old leather jacket and treated myself to a new one; the old one has gone in the seams and there are a few holes from hanging it up. Nothing that can't be repaired and I might get it done one day.

 

http://cartoonician.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/atlas-top-half.jpg

[bald_pig]

I have a sheep leather trench coat which is fab. I also had a cows leather trench coat, which was very heavy. Cows leather is great for motorbike leathers (maximum thickness, maximum protection), but for normal coats sheep or goat leather is the go IMO. Much lighter to wear and just as warm.

 

Leather clothes will last pretty much for ever. My motorbike trousers are about 40 years old. My motorbike jacket it around 30, but I can't get my arms in the sleeves any more. (See my life story below.) I've just retired a 25 year old leather jacket and treated myself to a new one; the old one has gone in the seams and there are a few holes from hanging it up. Nothing that can't be repaired and I might get it done one day.

 

"Real bikers don't grow old, their leathers just grow tighter..."

[Dos_Box]

I have a long black leather coat which has faded but still can't find a decent leather colour restorer to use.

It's a shame as the coat is still in fine shape, just very faded in places which spoils it.

[pete]

As a data point I've used Barton Watchbands (leather straps are top grain) and the products are decent.

[SpuffMonkey]

I think the worst con are the ads for leather items (often on ebay) that say somewhere in tiny font "Real PU leather" - ie polyurethane - not leather at all

 

I do a leathercraft class - I'm not there for a couple of weeks - but try and remind me and I'll ask if the teacher can recommend anything for your coat

[Garacesh]

I think the worst con are the ads for leather items (often on ebay) that say somewhere in tiny font "Real PU leather" - ie polyurethane - not leather at all

Yeah, I feel like leather should be one of those protected/restricted terms you're not allowed to use unless certain requirements are met (like champagne, dietitian, etc)