Types and Identification of Cowhide

Cowhide consists of multiple layers (up to 8). The outermost layer is called Top-grain leather, known for its high quality and durability. Beneath it lies Split leather, which is the lower layer of the hide, often coated to improve appearance and wear resistance.

Craftsmanship:

• Top-grain leather is the first layer cut from the animal’s hide, retaining the natural grain and texture. It may show natural marks like scars or vein patterns, reflecting its authenticity. The tanning and finishing process is complex, involving hair removal, dyeing, and polishing.

• Split leather is the lower layer beneath the top grain. Its surface is usually covered with a polyurethane (PU) coating to enhance smoothness and durability, as the natural grain is absent.

Material Properties:

• Top-grain leather has a dense fiber structure, typically around 1.3 mm thick. It is soft, breathable, and highly wear-resistant.

• Split leather has a looser fiber structure and is generally thicker (around 1.6–1.7 mm), but less durable and less breathable than top-grain leather.

Common Uses:

• Top-grain leather is preferred for high-end leather goods such as shoes, clothing, and bags, where quality and comfort matter.

• Split leather, being more affordable, is often used in mid-range products like phone cases, laptop sleeves, and bags that require a thinner or stiffer material.