Our Leather

At Mettle & Hide, we put quality before the brand, emphasizing craftsmanship and careful selection of materials over fleeting trends. Our approach is deeply rooted in a profound respect for traditional techniques that work in harmony with the Earth.

Vegetable-Tanned, Full-Grain Excellence

At Mettle & Hide, our distinction lies in our commitment to using vegetable-tanned, full-grain leather. The process of vegetable tanning is rooted in age-old artisanal traditions, utilizing natural tannins extracted from barks, leaves, and fruits. This method eschews the harmful chemicals synonymous with chrome tanning—a process known for its quick turnaround and cost-efficiency but marred by its adverse environmental impacts and potential health risks for workers. Our choice of vegetable tanning instead represents a harmonious blend of durability and sustainability.

Following this thoughtful tanning process, we select only full-grain leather—the epitome of leather quality. Characterized by the integrity of the hide's top layer, full-grain leather proudly bears its natural textures and slight imperfections. Far thicker and more resilient than the processed alternatives prevalent in the market, our full-grain leather ensures that Mettle & Hide’s products not only endure but also mature beautifully with time.

The Beauty of Solid Brass Hardware

Our commitment to unmatched durability extends to our use of solid brass for all hardware components.

Known for its strength and resistance to corrosion, solid brass not only ensures the longevity of our products but also ages beautifully alongside our leather. Together, they develop a rich patina over time, each mark and hue telling a story of its journey with you.

The Truth About Vegan Leather

In our quest for quality and mindful crafting, we've critically assessed the materials commonly labeled as "eco-friendly," such as vegan leather. Often marketed as a sustainable alternative, many vegan leathers are primarily made from petroleum-based products, contributing to pollution and environmental degradation.

 

These synthetic materials, while avoiding animal products, do not offer the durability, biodegradability, or minimal environmental impact of our vegetable-tanned, full-grain leather. At Mettle & Hide, we believe in making choices that align with our commitment to quality, longevity, and responsible sourcing, ensuring our products genuinely benefit both our customers and the planet.

A Positive Impact on the Environment

At Mettle & Hide, we also recognize the role of responsibly raised cattle in enhancing environmental health. Properly managed livestock can significantly improve soil quality and aid in carbon sequestration, turning a potential environmental concern into an opportunity for ecological restoration.

Our leather is thus a byproduct of practices that contribute to the land's natural cycle, aligning with our ethos of mindful material sourcing.

Quality Before Brand

Mettle & Hide represents more than just a brand name; it embodies a profound commitment to excellence, tradition, and a mindful approach to our environmental impact.

Opting for our handcrafted leather means you're investing in more than just a product, You’re choosing a piece that harmoniously blends durability with sustainability, each carrying a unique story that becomes intimately yours over time. Thank you for prioritizing quality. Thank you for choosing Mettle & Hide.