Guides d’expertise UniversBags

Types of leather: recognizing quality and choosing the right leather

Understanding the types of leather at UniversBags

Understanding leather types: the foundation of excellence

Leather is a living material, with its nuances, fibers, and characteristics. Choosing it well means understanding where the hide comes from , how it has been processed , and what differentiates high-end leather from standard leather.

At UniversBags® , we exclusively use leathers selected for their durability, their resistance over time and their ability to develop a beautiful patina.

The major leather families

Leather types are generally classified according to two elements:

  • 📍 The layer of skin used (full grain, corrected grain, scab).
  • 🛠️ The treatment applied (natural grain, embossed, sanded, suede).

1. Full-grain leather: excellence

This is the top layer of the skin, preserved in its most natural state. Authenticity, durability, and nobility.

  • ⭐ Unique texture (every skin is different)
  • ⭐ Exceptional durability and excellent breathability
  • ⭐ Patina that improves over time

Ideal for: premium handbags, high-end travel bags.

2. Premium leather / Top Grain: the balance

Its surface has been very lightly sanded to smooth out minor natural imperfections. A more even appearance and a smooth surface.

  • ✨ More uniform grain and soft to the touch
  • ✨ Very high resistance

Ideal for: structured bags, everyday bags, satchels.

3. Grained leather and Togo leather

Grained leather offers high scratch resistance and a modern look.

  • 💎 Natural grain: Irregular and deep texture, more luxurious.
  • 💎 Embossed grain: Uniform pattern obtained by pressure, more regular.

Togo leather: premium grain

Intensively milled calfskin leather for a deep, fine, and elegant natural grain . Very lightweight and scratch-resistant, it perfectly maintains the bag's shape.

4. Flexibility, Rigor and Velvet

  • 👜 Clémence leather (Bull calf): Very supple, wide grain, "relaxed" drape. Ideal for tote bags.
  • 📐 Epsom leather: Fully embossed, very rigid and graphic. Easy to clean.
  • ☁️ Nubuck: Full-grain leather sanded on the surface for a fine, matte, velvety feel.
  • 🦌 Suede: Sanded inner surface of the hide. Natural and casual look.

How to recognize quality leather?

✅ Irregular grain (natural signs of life)

✅ Natural scent (organic, not chemical)

✅ Lively touch (reacts to the warmth of the hand)

✅ Patina (becomes more beautiful over the weeks)