What is waxed leather? Surface gloss/white marks and what you need to know before starting care

A slightly cloudy texture that remains on the leather surface. Some people may have heard of waxed leather because they are attracted to the luster that changes depending on the angle you pick it up and the bright color of the folded part.

The appeal of waxed leather is that you can enjoy the look of the finish itself, which is different from the smooth, uniform surface. However, ``waxed leather leaves white marks'' and ``scratches disappear when rubbed'' cannot be summarized all at once.

Here, we will focus on how the surface looks, and summarize the points you should check before purchasing, as well as ways to avoid changing the original texture with care.

Waxed leather is a name that focuses on the finish.

Waxed leather is a term that generally refers to leather that has been given a texture using wax. The classification axis is different from animal types such as cowhide and sheepskin.

The Japan Leather Industry Federation's Leather Terminology Dictionary also describes wax as a material that adjusts the feel and gloss of leather finishes. There are multiple types of raw materials, and the name alone does not determine the composition or processing method. [1]

Therefore, even though the word ``wax'' is written in the same way, it can appear in many different ways, such as moist, smooth, or less glossy. In product photos, it will be easier to imagine the texture if you look not only at the front but also at angles of light and at the folded parts.

crazy horse leatherrelationship with

Crazy Horse Leather sold at cowmono is a type of leather that is made from cowhide leather with oil and wax. Even though it is called "Horse", it does not mean that it is introduced as horse leather.

A related finish is ``pull-up,'' which shows the shading of parts that are bent or pulled. However, not all leathers treated with wax will show the same color change, so it is important to check the finish name and the actual appearance. [2]

There is a difference between enjoying gloss and scratches and leaving damage untreated.

The corners of a wallet that you often touch, and the flap of a bag that bends every time you open and close it. As you continue to use it, you will notice differences in gloss and shading in different places, giving it a different look than when it was new.

If these changes suit your taste, waxy texture is one of the fun things to choose. On the other hand, if you want to maintain a uniform color at all times, check for scratches and uneven color before purchasing to reduce the difference in impression after you start using it.

Please be careful not to treat scratches that change the color of the surface as the same as scratches that gouge the leather or damage the seams. Adding wax or oil will not restore lost leather or broken threads.

Don't assume that all white marks are caused by wax.

Some leathers are introduced as having a whitish surface, but the finish may not necessarily be the same, including the white powder and marks that appear after storage.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Leather Technology Center explains ``spew'', which is the appearance of salt or fat on the surface of the leather. There are different causes of white appearance, so do not conclude that it is wax, dirt, or mold just by looking at the photo or appearance. [3]

If you notice any changes in your leather, contact your retailer or leather goods specialty store, including information about when you noticed it, whether it got wet, and how it was stored. This page does not recommend using heat or solvents at home for identification purposes.

Care begins with protecting the current finish.

Instead of thinking, ``Since the leather contains wax, add wax regularly,'' check the care label on the product first. The Japan Leather Market guide also states that it is important to choose a method that matches the type and finish of the leather. [4]

• Usually does not leave dust: Clean without applying force using the soft cloth or brush provided with the product.
• If it gets wet, take immediate action: Absorb moisture without rubbing and dry naturally away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Make sure the cream is compatible: Check whether the leather is usable and check for changes in color, luster, and stickiness in inconspicuous areas.
• If you don't want to change the finish, don't force it.: If you want to maintain a matte feel or pale color, please consult the retailer first.

Coronil, a manufacturer of care products, also provides guidance on compatibility with materials and tests in inconspicuous locations. Even if the leather contains oil, it does not mean that any additional care agents will be suitable. [5]

It is also important to note that a water-repellent finish does not guarantee that the entire bag is waterproof. Consider water ingress through seams and openings, and on rainy days, consider adding covers and protection to the contents.

Choose the look of the leather based on the occasion where it will be used.

If you want to enjoy the texture up close, you can choose an accessory that you often pick up, or if you want to look at it as a surface, you can choose a bag. Here we will introduce two product numbers of crazy horse leather with different uses.

Long wallet E where you can enjoy the texture every time you pick it up

Crazy Horse Leather Wallet_E

A long wallet measuring 18 cm wide x 9.5 cm high x 1.5 cm thick, with storage for cards and banknotes and a coin purse with a zipper. This is a candidate for those who want to start with small items that can touch the leather surface every time they are taken out of the bag.

Some designs include woven straps and metal fittings, so please check the product photo to see not only the color of the leather but also the overall design.

View product details

Shoulder bag N where you can enjoy the large leather surface

Crazy horse leather shoulder bag_N

It comes in two sizes: S is 36 x 14 x 26 cm, and L is 40 x 15 x 29 cm. This is a comparison candidate for those who want to see the shades of leather on a wider surface than wallets and accessories, and those who want to keep their work and everyday belongings together.

The dimensions are shown on the product page and are not the internal dimensions of the storage compartment. When inserting a PC, please check the size and opening including the case.

View product details

cowmono is a select shop that selects products based on materials and ease of daily use. For ideas on how to keep prices down,cowmono policy on quality and pricePlease also see

Frequently asked questions

Are waxed leather and oiled leather different?

Although the processing and materials focused on are different, some leathers use both oil and wax. Don't completely judge by the name; look at the texture, finish, and care instructions to make your decision.

Will the surface of waxed leather turn white?

This cannot be said uniformly. Please consider finishes characterized by a whitish surface and white marks that appear after use or storage separately, and check with your retailer if there are any unknown changes.

If I'm concerned about scratches, should I brush it harder?

Avoid strong friction as it will cause the color and gloss to change. Check for shallow color changes or surface scratches, and take care of them according to the instructions provided by the product.

Is waterproofing spray necessary?

Not necessarily required. Because it is compatible with the finish, it is safe to check the labeling on both the leather product and the spray, and if you are unsure about compatibility, consult before use.

Can I expose it to sunlight to speed up aging?

Intentional sunbathing is not recommended. The deepening of the luster and color you desire is not the same as fading due to UV rays, so don't force the change and enjoy it through regular use. [3]

Once you know the finish, it will be easier to understand the changes and how to choose it.

When looking at waxed leather, think not only about whether it is resistant to water and scratches, but also what kind of surface you would like it to have and what kind of changes you would like to see as you use it.

They don't dismiss all the traces that bother them as tastes, and on the contrary, they don't try to remove all the slight shades as dirt. If you can interact with the leather in a way that suits it, it will be easier to enjoy your favorite expression every day.

Reference materials/annotations

1. Japan Leather Industry Federation Leather terminology dictionary “wax”:Refer to the usage and classification of materials in finishing.
2. Japan Leather Industry Federation Leather terminology dictionary “Pull-up finish”:See explanation of processing and shading. We do not guarantee the same changes on all wax finishes
3. Tokyo Metropolitan Leather Technology Center Q&A about leather and leather products:See Q18 spew and Q14 explanation regarding fading. Identification using heat and solvents in the document is not introduced as a home care procedure.
4. Japan Tanners Association/Japan Leather City About leather product care:Refer to the basics of care appropriate for the material/finish.
5. Coronil Precautions for use:See material suitability and testing before use.

Product information is based on each product page. There are individual differences in expression and color, and this text does not represent the results of durability or waterproof tests of the listed products.