Leather fabric
Leather is a durable animal material that lasts for decades, but about 80 percent of it is chrome-tanned and can carry traces of chromium-VI, a recognized contact allergen. Vegetable-tanned leather is gentler on reactive skin.
On your skin
Around 80 percent of leather is chrome-tanned and can carry chromium-VI traces, a recognized contact allergen. Vegetable-tanned leather is gentler.
Comfort and performance
Moulds to the body and lasts for decades with care.
Durability
Extremely durable. Condition it and keep it dry.
Environmental impact
Long-lasting but resource- and chemical-heavy to produce. The EU restricts chromium-VI in leather to under 3 mg/kg.
See what your clothes are really made of
Scan any care label. ClothTrace reads the real fibre, decodes the wash symbols, and flags what it puts against your skin. Free to scan.
Download for iPhoneLeather FAQ
Is chrome-tanned leather safe?
For most people, yes, but it can carry chromium-VI, a contact allergen. Vegetable-tanned leather avoids that risk.
How long does leather last?
Decades, if conditioned and kept dry. It is one of the most durable materials in a wardrobe.
Is leather sustainable?
It is durable and long-lasting but chemical- and resource-intensive to produce.
- Sources
- Hansen et al. (2002), Contact Dermatitis; EU REACH Entry 47.