What is cowhide? How to choose a bag based on the type of calf steer, etc., and the finish

Whether it's a shiny work bag or a slouchy holiday bag, if you look at the material section, you'll find that they all use the same "cowhide leather." Just by saying that, it's hard to imagine the difference in comfort.

Cowhide leather is a material that has a wide range of expressions depending on the cow it is made from, as well as the tanning and finishing. Rather than memorizing the name of a type, knowing what the name describes will help you understand more from photos and product descriptions.

Cowhide is a material made from tanned cow skin.

Tanning is the process of processing animal skin into a state that is resistant to decay and can be used as a practical product. Cowhide is made from cow skin and is one of the major categories of genuine leather. [1]

"Genuine leather" and "cowhide" are not contradictory words. In addition to cow leather, genuine leather also comes from sheep, goats, pigs, horses, etc., and the label "cowhide leather" indicates the animal it is made from in more detail.

According to the Japan Tanners Association's Japan Leather Fair, cowhide is widely used in leather products, and is generally described as a material that is large, thick, and has a relatively uniform fiber structure. However, the weight and softness of the finished bag will vary depending on the thickness of the leather, processing, lining, and metal fittings. [2]

Calf and steer are names that refer to the cows from which they are made.

Some cowhide names are derived from age, gender, etc. The following table summarizes the classification of Japanese Leather Market. [2]

These are not tables that rank the durability of the products as a whole. For example, the desired thickness and shape are different for a wallet that enjoys fine texture and a bag that you use every day to store your belongings.

Also, if a product only says "cowhide" on it, you cannot conclude that it is calf or steer based on that information alone. If detailed ingredients are the deciding factor in your choice, don't make assumptions based on the appearance; instead, check with the vendor.

Two treatments that change the look of the same cowhide

Tanning adjusts the properties that form the base of the leather.

The main tanning methods include methods that use vegetable-derived tannins, methods that use chromium salts, and methods that combine multiple methods. At Nippon Leather Market, the characteristics of each type of leather are introduced, such as the formability and color change of tanning, and the flexibility and dyeability of chrome tanning. [3]

It's not a question of which one is always of higher quality, but rather a choice that suits the product you want to make. For leather that does not have a name written on it, avoid judging the tanning method based solely on the color or smell.

Finishing changes the appearance and the impression you touch.

The expression of leather changes depending on the processing, such as finishing to make use of the natural surface, embossing to add patterns, and nubuck to raise the surface. The name of the raw material, cowhide, and the name of these finishes are different information, so it does not necessarily mean that it is not genuine leather because it is embossed. [4]

Before you buy, enlarge the photo and look not only at the surface, but also at the folds, handle, bottom, and inside. You can see the thickness and shape characteristics that were not visible from the front view.

crazy horse leatherAlso, cowmono uses cowhide

The name "horse" may make you think of horse leather, but the material introduced at cowmono as crazy horse leather is cowhide. Its characteristics are the texture that makes use of oil and wax, and the shading that appears with movement.

A finish that uses oil or wax to create shading in areas that are bent or pulled is called "pull-up." This is a change in the appearance of the color and does not mean that the torn fibers will return to normal. [5]

This option is suitable for those who want to enjoy the change in appearance as they carry it around, rather than maintaining the uniformity of a new product. On the other hand, be careful about color transfer to light-colored clothing and water exposure, and avoid treating all scratches and stains as taste.

If you choose a cowhide bag, try changing it to your daily life.

If it's for work, is it heavy enough to hold with the PC inside, and can documents be taken in and out without breaking? If it's for the holidays, will it fit your wallet and smartphone, and will the strap be easy to adjust even when wearing a jacket? Even with the same cowhide, the necessary conditions differ depending on the person.

• In addition to the texture of the leather, see photos of the handle width, base, and seams.
• Check not only the external dimensions, but also the opening and internal partitions.
• Add your usual luggage to the empty weight.
• Also read the precautions before purchasing, such as water damage and color transfer.

You cannot tell their compatibility just by looking at the price. At cowmono, we choose items that emphasize materials and everyday usability rather than logos or excessive decorations. The idea for keeping prices down isAbout cowmonoWe will also guide you

Genuine leather shoulder bag for packing your work belongings

Genuine leather shoulder bag_H

A model with a cowhide body and canvas lining. This is a candidate for those looking for a work bag that can be carried over the shoulder and has storage for a computer and pockets for small items.

Approximately 42 x 16 x 29 cm, approximately 2 kg. If you prioritize lightness, please also consider the total weight when packed.

View product details

A mini shoulder bag you'll want to carry on light days.

Crazy horse leather mini shoulder bag_T

It has a compact shape that can be used by opening the flap, and there is also storage for small items inside. This item is perfect for days when you want to limit your belongings to just what you need while enjoying the texture of the leather.

Approximately 20 x 15 x 6.5cm. Please check the product photo to check the thickness of your wallet or device and compatibility with the opening.

View product details

Care is more detailed than "for cowhide"

Not all creams can be used with cowhide leather, so choose based on whether or not it has naps and the surface finish. Coronil also provides guidance on checking the material and testing it in an inconspicuous area before use. [6]

Usually, I remove dust, and if it gets wet, I suppress the moisture and dry it away from heat. When adding oil, follow the instructions on where you buy it and the supplies, and avoid adding too many layers just because you want shine.

Frequently asked questions about cowhide

If you use cowhide leather, will it definitely last for a long time?

The age cannot be determined just by the name of the material. It is necessary to consider the structure, frequency of use, load on luggage, storage environment, etc.

Are wrinkles or uneven coloring of cowhide defective?

While some may be seen as an expression of the natural material or finish, these should be checked separately from tears, frayed seams, or significant peeling. If you have any concerns, please consult the seller before you start using the product.

Can you tell the difference between cowhide and synthetic leather just by looking at the photo?

Because there are materials and treatments that look similar, it is difficult to judge with certainty just from the photo. It is important to check the material display and the seller's explanation.

Will all cowhide turn dark color?

The appearance of changes depends on the dyeing and finishing. Not all products change color in the same order or over the same period of time.

Once you know the name, pay attention to the situations in which it is used.

Knowing the type of cowhide is a clue to getting closer to the item you like. Please take a look at the name of the raw materials, the appearance of the finish, and the structure of the bag and choose one that fits comfortably with your daily clothes and belongings.