Different Types of Leather Used in Sporrans: Pros and Cons

4 6 minutes read

Leather has covered our lives and fulfilled our requirements from ancient times. It is settled in every corner of our homes, from clothing to wallets and shoes. It also exists in our Scottish wardrobes in the form of sporrans, which are pouches often worn with kilts. They are primarily made with leather, in fact, many variations of leather. This piece of information is going to revolve around different types of leather used in sporrans and help you pick the ideal one.

Why is Leather a Top-priority for Sporrans?

Many materials are used in making kilt sporrans, while leather is the central one as it constructs the body. The other materials are hair of animals and metal embellishments, but leather is the core material. Why is leather the top choice for sporrans? A simple answer to this question is durability, versatility, classical look, and practicality.

Their use like tartan kilts is not specific to the single theme, but they fit every occasion, whether it is a formal or casual event. As sporrans are exposed to part of the dress, the durability favors them in every condition. A well-maintained and polished leather sporran absorbs the UV rays on sunny days. Likewise, leather itself has water-resistance qualities, but applying relevant sprays makes it entirely waterproof. Conclusively, these features are sufficient to make them a valuable choice.

Types of Leather Used in Sporrans

Leather products, including sporrans, are made with a number of leather types and discussing them all would be lengthy. Keeping it short and simple, let’s discuss the most-used types of leathers here.

Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain is the highest form of leather that holds the tag of the most durable variation. Makers generate it from the outermost skin layer of the animals, and it passes through various steps to achieve the final look. It has a smooth to naturally pebbled surface, offering exceptional flair.

Pros of Grain Leather

The durability peaks to extra limits.
Offers a unique and luxurious feel.
More breathable than other types of leather.
Adds a classical touch to the products.

Cons of Grain Leather

More cost compared to other variants.
Potential to get scratches and stains.
Needs extra maintenance efforts.

Top-Grain Leather

Top-grain leather follows the previous form and is considered the second most durable form of leather. It offers a sanded look, connecting itself to the more natural flair. The durability may be compromised, but affordability is a prominent feature.

Benefits of Top-grain Leather

Provides a uniform appearance.
Less expensive compared to the full-grain leather.
Water and stain resistance are positive aspects.
Easy to maintain comparatively.

Drawbacks of Top-grain Leather

Compromised durability
impacts the overall lifespan.
It offers lower breathability.
The outer surface can peel with time.

Animal Hide Leathers

Animal hide leather is the top priority to make sporrans, as the material is generated from common animals or livestock such as cows, sheep, deer, and goats. Other than its free availability, this form of leather is durable and has the potential to withstand harsh conditions. Have a look at the traits of some common animal hides first, and then we will explore the overall advantages and disadvantages of animal hide leather.

Cowhide Traits: As the name represents, this material is taken from the skin of cows. Exceptional durability and being economical are its primary features, while the ability to mold easily and withstand wear and tear makes it the first choice for sporrans.

Deerhide Traits: This particular hide, the deerhide, is a bit rare to find, which makes it costly compared to other leathers (animal hides). It is the top choice of sporran makers because of its extreme durability and soft texture. With time, it develops a patina over the surface, offering timeless appeal.

Goatskin Traits: When we compare goatskin leather with other animal hides, we find it more cost-effective and easily available. It shares the same traits as cow and deer hide, while additional breathability is a plus point.

The features of different animal hides must be clear now. They all have the same traits with a few differences. Let’s discover the overall pros and cons of this particular variation.

Advantages of Animal Hide Leather

The extra durability makes products long-lasting.
Development of patina offering sophistication in appearance.
It is flexible and easily comes back to its origin.
Versatile and a sign of heritage in Scottish culture.

Disadvantages of Animal Hide Leather

The tanning process causes water pollution.
Animal exploitation and slaughter sounds inconvenient to many.
Fur shedding can be a problematic situation.

Exotic Leathers

Let’s discuss the costliest form of leather, which is very rare to find. It is exotic leather, which is made with the skin of animals that are not common, such as crocodiles, reptiles, and ostriches. Its limited availability and complex sourcing increase its price and keep its use limited to luxurious sporrans.

Benefits of Exotic Leathers

Unique aesthetics because of distinctive patterns of rare animals.
They often have luxurious value.
Durability to the extreme level.

Drawbacks of Exotic Leathers

It is the most expensive form of leather.
Very rare and difficult to find.
Requires specific care to maintain its charm.

Faux Leather

Every natural ingredient has its artificial form today, and faux leather fully justifies this statement. This variation of leather is made with synthetic materials such as polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride. Both are plastic-based materials that look similar to leather. Faux offers a considerable level of breathability and durability, while costs are much lower comparatively.

Positive Aspects

Cost-effective due to synthetic materials.
Limited care level, as they do not get impacted easily.
Being water- and ultraviolet ray-resistant makes them a good choice for sporrans.
Available in a variety of colors, qualities, and styles.

Negative Aspects of Synthetic Leather

Do not offer an actual leather touch.

As it is plastic, the breathability level is almost zero.
The punctures and tears can be the major problems.
Cannot restore itself to the origin once molded.

Purchase Premium Quality Leather Sporrans at The Utility Kilt

The above discussion about a specific Scottish accessory and different leathers used to make it must have cleared everything. If you are planning to buy a Scottish leather sporran or other kilt accessories made with premium-quality materials, do not hesitate to explore the inventory of The Utility Kilt. At our store we offer every component of a Scottish outfit, whether you want a sporran or Scottish leather kilt shoes. If you ask us to mention some of our exceptionally made Scottish bags, we will mention:

FAQs About Leather Types Used in Sporrans

Are animal hide leathers more durable than other types?

Except for full-grain and top-grain leather variants, yes, animal hides are more durable than others. Along with durability, they also offer cost-effectiveness.

How do exotic leathers compare to traditional leather in terms of maintenance?

Exotic leather is less durable compared to traditional ones, which means it requires high maintenance efforts. Similarly, many other aspects, including washing techniques and product requirements, make traditional leather more convenient than exotic material.

Is faux leather a good alternative for sporrans?

Yes, faux leather is a more considerable option for those who do not need genuine material and those who want a budget-friendly sporran option.

How do I care for animal hide leather sporrans?

Animal hide animal leather sporrans should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth. Make sure to make it waterproof when it is raining outside. Similarly, applying relevant polish keeps the surface shiny.