Our Honest Hides include our nubuck, pull-up and aniline leathers because they the most honest leather in our collection. What we mean by that is they are simply the softest, most natural feeling leathers we work with.
They are all dyed in the drum to create deep, vibrant colors and have the least amount of protection added to the finish. Tanneries start by only selecting the very best full grain hides, which are considered the best because it's not corrected or weakened in any way with all the natural markings. With no two hides alike, the art of selecting the perfect skin for each bag falls to the hands of the cutters and crafters.
How They Feel
Nubuck hides (Bluebell, Wicked and Woodstock): are hand sanded so every hide will have a personality of its own. A final touch of silicon is applied creating an irresistibly soft touch and uniquely rustic look.
Pull Up leather (Black Sand & Whiskey): is a type of aniline leather that is coloured with aniline dyes that are sealed using a combination of transparent waxes and oils, instead of paints, pigments and top coats, which gives the leather a very soft hand, or feel. The main characteristic of these leather types is they develop patina very quickly.
True aniline hides (Merlot): achieve their beautiful feel by remaining exposed with a slight finish, but nothing to deter the natural quality, creating a subtle distressed charm found in your most loved items. Aniline is the highest quality leather, the most natural, soft and gracefully supple of all leather types. But as a pure aniline leathers, marks, scratches, and signs of wear will show and a rich patina, or shine, will increase over time on all these leathers.
How They Wear
Because this leather is "exposed," it will develop a beautiful patina with wear over time. A patina is essentially the weathered look a piece of leather will take on as it ages. A good patina is a sight to behold. It's a richness and beauty that only comes with time and experience.
Leather Care Tips
This leather can require a bit more care, because it could fade in direct sunlight or be more susceptible to soiling. Because of this, we recommend the following products for use with these leathers.
Waterproofing from day one is step one, mainly if you want to slow down the patina process and add a layer of protection. The leather dressing is a light conditioner that can be used on markings when the natural oils from your skin won't do the trick and to restore and protect the leather for the long run.
Overall, the best way to care for any leather is to pay attention to the dirt and oils from your touch and take care of any soiling immediately. However, we believe the daily wear of this leather is part of its story. Over time, they will develop a rich shine, and with a little extra care, you can extend the life and beauty of these treasures.
