Leather comes in all shapes and sizes - and by shapes and sizes, we mean type and quality. We’ve spoken in the past about the different types of leather that exist, such as lambskin, sheepskin, and cowhide.

Corrected grain leather is a type of leather that has undergone a process to remove imperfections from its surface, giving it a more uniform appearance. Unlike full grain leather, which retains the complete grain intact, corrected grain leather is typically made from lower-quality hides, often split grain leather, which is a result of separating the surface layer of the animal hide. In the leather industry, grading leather plays a crucial role in determining its quality, and corrected grain leather is often considered a more affordable option compared to full grain leather or top grain leather.

The leather grains in corrected grain leather are usually buffed or sanded to remove blemishes and imperfections, and sometimes, it is artificially embossed to mimic the texture of higher-quality leathers. This process can give corrected leather a glass-like appearance, which some may find attractive for leather goods, especially when a consistent, smooth finish is desired. While faux leather and bonded leather are made from synthetic materials, corrected grain leather, although altered, is still considered genuine leather as it originates from animal hides. It may lack the natural appearance and unique character of more premium leathers, but its durability and uniform texture make it a popular choice for many leather items.

The process of correcting the grain is often done to make leather more visually appealing and functional, but it can also be used to remove imperfections that would otherwise compromise the leather's quality. Leather items made from corrected grain leather, such as jackets, bags, and furniture, can still offer excellent leather quality at a more affordable price point. This type of leather often has a protective finish, which can help resist wear and tear, though it may not develop the same patina over time as natural leather.

When comparing corrected grain leather to other leathers, such as full grain or top grain leather, it’s important to consider personal preference, as some may prioritize a more uniform surface over the natural texture found in higher-grade leathers. While corrected grain leather is not quite as luxurious as its counterparts, it offers a functional, cost-effective option for quality leather goods. Whether you’re looking for a leather jacket or a durable bag, corrected leather can still provide a beautiful leather finish, giving you a product that looks great and serves its purpose well.

The quality of a leather jacket is determined by how the leather has been handled before being turned into a jacket.

• Genuine leather is the lowest quality leather. When full grain leather is split, genuine leather is the bottom half, while the top half becomes top grain.
• Full grain leather is the full hide and has not been split. This type of leather retains the natural grain and skin pattern of the animal. It has not been sanded, buffed, or gone through any other process to remove imperfections. It is inflexible leather as well.
• Top grain leather refers to leather that is split from the bottom layers of the leather. Top grain is the process of sanding away the natural grain from the top surface of the leather.
• Split leather is produced from top grain leather but is another layer underneath. It is the leftover from the processing of top-grain leather.

Each type of leather looks and feels different. The higher the quality of leather, the closer to the animal hide it looks and the stiffer it feels.

As with any type of leather, there are pros and cons to corrected grain.

Corrected grain is a lower quality leather compared to top and full grain. As a result, it costs less. If you are on a budget, getting a corrected grain jacket might be the move for you. This is one of the major benefits.

At the same time, corrected grain leather is lower quality leather. If you are looking for top-tier leather quality when purchasing your jacket, then corrected grain won’t work for you.

The other important characteristic of corrected grain is generally seen as a con, but depending on your style could be a benefit. As we mentioned, imperfections get sanded down when the leather is split. This gives corrected grain a more artificial feel. Many leather enthusiasts prefer all of the imperfections of the hide. There are some people, however, who might want clean skin. For anyone who prefers a more uniform look, this aspect of corrected grain leather could serve as a positive.

Corrected grain leather offers a practical and affordable option for those seeking genuine leather with a more uniform appearance. While full grain leather and top grain leather are often considered superior in terms of durability and natural texture, corrected leather is still a form of real leather that can provide excellent leather quality for many leather goods. Its ability to remove imperfections from the surface layer of the hide makes it an ideal choice for consumers who value consistency and a clean, smooth finish.

Corrected grain leather is made from hides such as split grain leather or finished split leather, which are typically less expensive than top grain or full grain leather. By sanding or buffing away any imperfections, the leather grain texture is altered, and sometimes it is artificially embossed to achieve a more uniform look. This process can create a leather that resembles the texture of more premium types of leather, without the high cost. However, it’s important to note that although corrected grain leather has been treated to remove flaws, it doesn’t have the same natural origin or character that comes with full grain leather, which retains the complete grain intact.

When it comes to understanding leather quality, it’s helpful to refer to a leather quality chart, which can highlight the differences between various types of leather. While bonded leather and faux leather are often used in imitation of real leather, corrected grain leather is still genuine leather. For those in search of leather that offers good quality while maintaining a more consistent and refined look, corrected grain leather is a suitable choice. Whether you’re looking for a leather jacket or other leather items, corrected leather can provide an excellent option for both style and function, offering a smooth, protected surface and a durable finish.