10 Aug Glossary of footwear concepts (6)

Sixth entry corresponding to the series of posts in which we are compiling different terms in a glossary of footwear concepts (6). Within our field, there are numerous terms that refer to important elements in the manufacture and design of shoes.

We continue with other concepts from the world of footwear arranged in alphabetical order (Translator´s note: the order is lost in the translation).

Cordovan leather

It is a horse leather tanned with chrome salts. It is used for the cutting of shoes and boots.

PVC leather

In this case, we are talking about a compound material, usually of two layers. The first support layer is made of woven or non-woven polyester fibers. It is combined with an external surface, thanks to a dry lamination process, or a liquid or a wet processes.

Glossary of footwear concepts

Full grain leather

This refers to a leather that has not been sanded, polished or split, to remove any imperfections or natural marks on its surface. The natural grain is maintained, allowing the strength and durability of the fibers. The grain also has a better ability to transpire, which produces less moisture on prolonged contact.

Grainded leather

It is any leather to which an artificial grain has been applied to its surface. The hides used to create this type of leather do not meet the standards for use with vegetable or aniline tanning. Imperfections are corrected, or sanded down. A grain is artificially engraved on the surface, which is then coated with dyes.

Semigrain or grained leather

It is used for high-end leather products, being the second best in terms of quality. Its superficial layer is divided, being thinner and more flexible than the full grain leather. Its surface has been sanded and etched to even out the surface layer with a finish that gives it a cooler, more plastic feel. This type of leather has less breathability.

Photo credit: Eli 1957