Leather from different animals 

There are many types of leather, since it comes from several different animals. Most of the leather, which is produced today, is made from cattle hides as well as pig skin, sheep skin etc., but there are many other types of leather as well. The cow skins are the most common ones; however, this is definitely not the only options. Besides the regular types of skins, there are also more unusual types, called exotic leather. Some examples of this are fish skins, such as catfish, stingray, salmon etc. and reptile skins from animals such as python, crocodile, snake, lizard etc. These exotic types of leather constitute a very small part, around 1%, of the general leather production.  

Cow hide 

Cow hide is obviously the most common type of leather. It is made from all different kinds of cows, no matter if they are dairy cows or beef cows. Also, both the hides from young as well as older cows are used. If your leather comes from an adult cow and are from the best portions of the cow, it is probably some of the best leather available. Leather from cows is used for many purposes, including a large selection of different clothing, such as jackets, pants, vests etc.  

Pig skin 

It is most commonly known that pig skin is used for making footballs. However, it is less known that pig skin is also used for other purposes, such as clothing. Pig skin can actually be tougher than cow leather, which is why it is also used for jackets etc. The reason why pig skin in clothing is not well-known is not because it is rare, but rather because people are not aware that their clothing is made from pig skin.  

Sheep skin 

Sheep skin is not nearly as strong as other types of skin, and it is therefore not used as much for jackets, which need to be strong, such as motorcycle jackets. However, sheep skin is used more for fashion items and it can be used for purses, gloves etc. Often the wool is left on for a soft and warm feeling, both when used for fashion jackets, rugs etc. Therefore, the sheep skin should primarily be used for fashion items and such, since sheep skin is not the strongest type.   

Fish leather 

Fish leather is one of the exotic types of leather and it is not very usual compared to leather from cows. Salmon leather is a rather popular kind, however, there are many other kinds of fish leather. These types of leather are processed as well as all other types and they are often glazed in order to give them a shiny look. Stingray leather is also very popular and it is also very beautiful. It is extremely durable, but also one the most expensive types of all. Shark skin is also a very durable and strong type of exotic leather, and it is growing in popularity. Shark skin feels smooth and has a beautiful look, which is also reflected in the price.  

Crocodile and alligator leather 

Another very exotic type of leather comes from crocodile or alligator leather. They are very tough and can last for a long time, but they are definitely also very popular due to their characteristic looks. This sort of leather is quite expensive as well, but it is a good choice of leather, if the price is not an issue.   

These different types of leather constitute only a glimpse of the entire selection. There are many different kinds, which can all be used for different purposes, since they look and feel very different.