Whether you're shopping for leather gifts for others or you're looking for a new set of leather luggage for yourself, you're probably wondering how you can tell if you're getting a good quality item. What really makes an excellent leather binder or leather backpack is the use of quality leather during the construction. Here are some tips for finding a leather duffle bag or other item made from quality material.
Ask about the origin of the leather. Leather from Europe is considered the best, with North American leather also being of good quality. Central and South American leather is more mediocre, but very affordable. Leather from Asia used to be thought of as poorer quality, but it has improved quite a bit as of late. The source of the product does not always indicate the source of the leather.
Smell the leather. If the leather has a chemical or rotten odor to it, it is a lower-quality product. Poorer-quality leather will retain the smell from the various processing chemicals.
Check the label. Leather that is marked as "Full Grain" or "Top Full Grain" is generally the highest quality. You shouldn't pay equivalent prices for items made from the layers underneath, known as "splits." While splits are not necessarily poor in quality, they don't have the same value as full grain.
Examine the grain. The grain is the smooth side of the leather, the side that was closest to the fur/hair of the animal it came from. Leather should be supple and soft (but not mushy) as opposed to stiff. If the leather is stiff (similar to cardboard) or cracks when bent, it is not good quality.
|