In today’s society, leather is used in many different industries. We see leather in our cars, in our homes, and even as part of our wardrobe. Leather pieces have been found in Egypt dating back to 1300 B.C, so it goes without saying that people have been making and using leather for quite some time. The durability and quality products created from leather have enhanced our lives and protected our belongings for centuries, and will continue to do so.
What is leather, exactly? Leather is a versatile material made from an animal skin that has been tanned (or cured) and transformed into a durable material. Most leather is made from cattle hide, but the skin of any animal can be turned into leather. Cows have very thick skin, so leather made from cattle hide is very strong and durable. Most of the leather we see today is made from cattle hide and tanned using a variety of traditional and more modern techniques.
Our early ancestors used leather garments to protect their body, hands and feet from the many dangers of primitive life. It should come as no surprise, then, that leather has continued to be worn as protective gear. We have all seen the images of the Old West with cowboys wearing their leather chaps, belts, vests, and boots. Or how about the motorcycle counterculture? The black leather jackets, chaps, motorcycle boots, and plenty of fringe is an iconic image to many. Whether it was a cowboy herding cattle or a motorcycle gang riding cross-country, the initial purpose of the leather garb was first and foremost to protect the wearer from the elements and accidents alike.
Even though donning leather once served a more protective purpose, wearing leather garments and accessories has become quite fashionable in more recent society. The durability and functionality of leather clothes and accessories has just made them that much more desirable. While leather clothing once served to protect our bodies, we now use leather to protect our most valuable possessions.
Men and women alike now keep their most personal and important possessions in wallets, purses, and handbags made of leather. Leather briefcases, computer bags, and backpacks tote important work documents, electronics, and personal accessories from home to the office and back again day in and day out. We rest assured when we travel with our leather luggage because it has been made to withstand the roughest treatment by baggage handlers and protect our traveling necessities in all kinds of weather.
Protecting our own hide by wearing leather has a long-standing history in our society. It only makes sense that leather use would evolve to protecting our paychecks, our laptops, our wardrobes (as well as being a prominent item in our wardrobe), and many other important personal items. Leather is durable, natural, and beautiful. The quality and durable products made from this tradition will continue to enhance our lives and keep our belongings safe.