LEATHERS
At Alder, we take pride in working with some of the finest Full Grain leathers from renowned tanneries around the world. Chosen for their character, durability, and ability to develop a rich patina over time, these leathers become more beautiful with age and use.
Each leather offers a distinct texture, appearance, and aging process, allowing every Alder piece to develop its own unique character through years of use.
Here are some of the leathers we currently offer:
- Buttero by Conceria Walpier (Italy)
- Buttero Hatch by Conceria Walpier (Italy)
- Alran Chevre by Tanneries Alran (France)
- Shell Cordovan by Shinki Hikaku (Japan)
- Shell Cordovan by Horween Leather Company (USA)
BUTTERO (Conceria Walpier, Italy)
A premium vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany, Italy, known for its smooth surface, firm structure, and rich colors. It develops a beautiful patina over time.
Pros
- Beautiful patina with age
- Firm structure that holds its shape
- Smooth, elegant finish
- Softens over time
- Classic vegetable-tanned leather
Cons
- Scratches more easily
- Sensitive to water
- Requires occasional care
- Color changes noticeably with use
BUTTERO HATCH (Conceria Walpier, Italy)
Produced by Conceria Walpier in Tuscany, Italy, A textured version of Buttero with an embossed hatch grain that offers better scratch resistance while still developing a natural patina.
Pros
- More scratch-resistant
- Durable and holds its shape well
- Subtle patina over time
- Refined, luxurious texture
- Great for everyday use
Cons
- Less visible patina than smooth Buttero
- Slightly firmer when new
- Textured finish may not suit everyone
- Edge painting is recommended
SHELL CORDOVAN SHINKI HIKAKU
Produced by Shinki Hikaku in Japan, this exceptional shell cordovan is renowned for its deep luster, dense fiber structure, and remarkable durability. Over time, it develops a distinctive shine and character that make it one of the world’s most sought-after leathers.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Develops a rich glossy shine
- Resistant to creasing
- Luxurious feel and appearance
- Can last for decades
Cons
- Premium price
- Requires dedicated care
- Sensitive to water spots
- Scratches may be visible
- Longer break-in period
SHELL CORDOVAN HORWEEN
Crafted by Horween Leather Company in Chicago, USA, Horween Shell Cordovan is one of the world’s most iconic leathers. Made from the fibrous shell beneath the horsehide, it is renowned for its rich depth of color, smooth finish, exceptional durability, and the unique luster it develops with age.
Pros
- Develops a rich, natural shine over time
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Resists creasing; forms gentle rolls instead
- Smooth, luxurious feel
- Rich color with beautiful aging character
- One of the world’s most prestigious leathers
Cons
- Premium price due to limited production
- Requires proper care and occasional conditioning
- Sensitive to water spots
- Surface scratches may appear but can often be buffed out
- Longer break-in period than softer leathers
ALRAN CHEVRE
A premium French goat leather with a lightweight feel, pebbled texture, and excellent scratch resistance. It is durable, low-maintenance, and keeps a clean appearance over time.
Pros
- Lightweight yet durable
- Excellent scratch resistance
- Water and moisture resistant
- Low maintenance
- Maintains a clean appearance
- Soft and comfortable
Cons
- Minimal patina development
- Little color change over time
- Pebbled texture may not suit everyone
- Less character change with age
