The process of turning an animal hide into wearable leather involves several steps. One of the most significant aspects is finishing since it gives the leather its completed look. Finishes also prevent the dye from rubbing off onto other surfaces while protecting the leather. Of course, with so many options, it’s hard to know which one to choose, so let’s look at the most popular leather finishes and what you need to know about them.

When it comes to choosing the right leather product, whether it's a timeless leather jacket or high-quality leather accessories, understanding leather finishes is an essential step. The finish applied to the leather surface can dramatically affect not just the natural look and leather feel, but also the durability, stain resistance, and even the level of water resistant protection it offers. These factors play a huge role in how a real leather item ages, develops its natural patina, and withstands daily wear.

Leather starts its journey as raw materials—often hides sourced during the leather manufacturing process—and is transformed through a careful tanning process that preserves and strengthens it. After tanning, the leather finishing process comes into play. This is where different leather types take shape, and finishes are applied to create specific textures, colors, and protective qualities. Whether you're interested in unfinished leather with a natural grain that ages beautifully or prefer the sleek appeal of smooth leather articles, there's a finish to suit every style and purpose.

Among the most sought-after types of leather is aniline leather, known for its soft, supple texture and natural leather appearance. Unlike faux leather, which is synthetic and lacks the character of genuine leather, aniline leather reveals the hide’s natural grain, embracing its subtle imperfections and rich tonal variations. On the other hand, corrected grain leather is buffed and coated to create a more uniform look, often preferred for fashion items that need to be more durable and less prone to scratching.

Each finish—from a natural wax finish that enhances leather edges, to an antique finish that gives a worn-in, vintage look—serves both aesthetic and practical functions. Some finishes improve stain resistance, while others allow the leather to breathe and evolve over time. Understanding these distinctions is crucial to making informed choices, whether you're shopping for jackets, bags, or any other leather product. With proper leather care, even the most delicate finishes can maintain their beauty and longevity for years to come.

Aniline leather receives its color from soluble aniline dyes, which maintain the pores for a more natural texture and a soft, smooth finish. It is made of top or full grain leather, ensuring the highest quality piece. A thin coating is usually applied on top for protection against wear, though it is susceptible to sun and water damage.

Semi-aniline uses similar aniline dyes as aniline leather. The result is more pigmentation for a natural appearance. The pores are large and distinct, though a light finishing coat is applied to hide noticeable blemishes. Semi-aniline leather can have a slight sheen and resists moisture and sunlight damage.

Pigmented leather is one of the most common and highest-quality finishes. A resin-based pigment is applied to full grain leather, hiding the pores, defects, and natural color for a smooth, uniform appearance. Though this leather isn’t as breathable, it offers exceptional resistance to light and water.

Pull-up leather, also known as oil, waxy, or waxed leather, has oil and a thick wax layer applied after pigmentation. The result is a dark coating, though as the leather moves, tiny cracks appear, revealing the light pigmentation underneath. The two-toned effect gives pull-up leather a worn, rugged look that evolves over time, though it is more vulnerable to scratches and abrasions.

Nubuck is created when the surface of top grain leather is sanded, creating a nap of short protein fibers. The material feels velvety-soft, similar to suede, has a remarkable appearance and has high durability. It is expensive, though, and susceptible to water damage, so it needs to be kept dry.

Made of split leather, suede is created when the material is buffed to raise the corium fiber, resulting in an even layer of short fibers. Suede is durable, soft, and stylish, making it a terrific option for jackets, shoes, and gloves. Unfortunately, it doesn’t mix well with moisture.

An embossed finish occurs when the leather is pressed using a hot metal patterned plate. The leather retains the pattern permanently and is often used to mimic the look of crocodile, snake, lizard, or other exotic animal skins as an affordable alternative to genuine exotic hides. The downside is reduced breathability and a firm, stiff feel.

An antiquated grain finish makes new products look aged and worn. The process involves a few tones of finish layered over the material to accentuate depressions and hollows, creating a natural patina in very little time. A thin, protective coating is applied, adding moisture resistance while maintaining flexibility. It is a specialized process, though, so it can be more expensive.

To create a dry milled finish, leather is placed into a milling drum. The heat and rotation of the drum enhance the natural lines in the material while creating a pebbled effect. The finished product is incredibly soft, with a unique, lived-in look.

Patent leather has a lovely, shiny surface. Traditionally, this sheen was created using linseed oil, though modern leather companies replaced this with liquid resin or laminated plastic. Though durable and eye-catching, the coating isn’t biodegradable, so it is not an eco-friendly choice.

Leather finishes give the leather its final look, but with so many options, the right choice should reflect what you’re looking for in a finish. For high durability and moisture resistance, aniline or semi-aniline are best. Those looking for a soft velvety feel may want to stick with nubuck or suede. For an aged look, antiqued grain is a good choice, while a patent finish gives the leather a shine that can’t be beat.