CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Some Leather Basics

What does "full-grain" mean?

You might have seen this term before -- it's not just for marketing! All of the products you will find here are made of full-grain leathers.

Leather is composed of different layers corresponding to anatomical regions of the skin . The tightly-woven collagen matrix of the epidermis and upper layer of the dermis (papillary dermis) are what give full-grain leather its tensile strength and durability. With proper care, full-grain products break-in and age beautifully, lasting for decades.

This is in contrast to so-called "genuine leather", a term that most typically refers to a low-grade product composed of suede (or "splits") sprayed with an artificial (i.e. plastic) finish to simulate a grain texture. Ever had the surface of a leather jacket or purse start to flake off with age? Now you know why...!

What does "veg-tan" mean?

Veg-tan is short for vegetable-tanned leather, which is produced using a slow, traditional method involving plant-derived tannins. The other major category is "chrome-tan", produced using a more rapid process involving chromium salts instead.

Some type of leather are produced using a combination of these two methods (e.g. Latigo leather) or with certain modifications, such as including additional oils, waxes, or lacquers during veg tanning ("bridle" or "harness" leathers) or chrome tanning ("oil-tan" leather).

The majority of leather produced today can be categorized as chrome-tan; veg-tan is generally regarded as a higher-end product (though that is not to say chrome tan leathers do not have their uses or are inherently low quality!). Only veg-tan leather has the water-absorbent properties necessary for molding, carving, tooling, and stamping. Full-grain veg-tan is known for its durability – as it breaks in, it becomes supple and develops a distinctive patina over time.

Tooled martingale and buckle collars (veg-tan)

These collars are generally low maintenance, with only occasional cleaning and conditioning necessary.

While the layered wax and lacquer finish provides excellent general weather resistance, the collar should not be submerged in water (i.e. please take it off before your dog goes swimming!).

If the collar gets wet or otherwise dirty, clean and condition as follows:

Use a glycerin-based saddle soap (e.g. Fiebing’s brand) applied with a soft cloth or sponge as directed.
The above step provides some degree of conditioning, however my preference is to then follow up with a thin application of high quality, wax-based leather balm – my personal favorite is Ray Holes Saddle Butter, which waterproofs and conditions with no discoloration (and as an added bonus, it smells delightful!).
Conditioning products designed for equestrian gear are generally the safest; avoid shoe polish or other very oily products as these can cause discoloration.
Always spot test any cleaning or conditioning product!

Rolled collars

I generally don’t recommend this style of collar for everyday use on heavy-pulling dogs due to the potential for stretching over time (however, general wear purposes -- as in not for training and walks -- are fine). For those "freight train" dogs, our martingale and flat buckle collar products are perfect for this kind of abuse!

For classic colors:

These are all made from oil-tanned leathers, which naturally have a degree of weather-proofing due to the oils and waxes infused during tanning. However these should still not be submerged in water. If the collar gets wet or otherwise dirty, clean and condition as follows:

Use a glycerin-based saddle soap (e.g. Fiebing’s brand) applied with a soft cloth or sponge as directed.
The above step provides some degree of conditioning, however my preference is to then follow up with a thin application of high quality, wax-based leather balm – my personal favorite is Ray Holes Saddle Butter, which waterproofs and conditions with no discoloration (and as an added bonus, it smells delightful!).
Conditioning products designed for equestrian gear are generally the safest; avoid shoe polish or other very oily products as these can cause discoloration.
Always spot test any cleaning or conditioning product!

For metallics:

As with all metallic leather, abrasion and friction may wear off the shiny finish over time. Therefore, if you want the high shine to last, this might not be the best choice as an every day collar -- but perfect for "special occasions", whether that's a show, trial, club outing, or simply strutting around town!

The collar should not be submerged in water. I recommend occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and glycerin saddle soap.
Various products are available for the upkeep and conditioning of leathers with a metallic finish. Mild leather balms containing Carnauba wax are often recommended.
Always spot test any cleaning or conditioning product!