Some things are meant to look perfect only when they're new. Good leather isn't one of them.

Full-grain leather is prized because it retains the natural surface of the hide rather than being heavily sanded or corrected. The small variations, markings and changes that develop with use aren't flaws—they're part of what gives a well-made leather bag its individual character.

At Pug & Bulldog, many of our Heirloom Leather pieces are made from Crazy Horse leather, a type of full-grain leather finished with waxes and oils to create its distinctive feel and appearance. Despite the name, Crazy Horse leather has nothing to do with horses. Its appeal comes from the way the leather responds to everyday life.

What Is Crazy Horse Leather?

Crazy Horse leather is full-grain leather treated with waxes and oils that penetrate the hide. When the leather is bent, rubbed or handled, those oils shift slightly, creating changes in tone across the surface.

That is why a new Crazy Horse leather bag rarely looks exactly the same after a year of use.

It develops a patina.

Small scratches can often be softened simply by rubbing the area with your fingers. Frequently handled areas may darken. Other areas may lighten or develop subtle variations in texture and color.

Rather than trying to remain untouched, the leather records where it has been.

Full-Grain Leather vs. Corrected Leather

Not all leather is created to age this way.

Full-grain leather retains the strongest outer portion of the hide and much of its natural character. More heavily corrected leathers may be sanded, coated or otherwise processed to create a more uniform surface.

There is nothing inherently wrong with wanting uniformity. But if you're looking for a leather briefcase, travel bag, backpack or handbag that becomes more personal with use, full-grain leather offers something different.

The goal isn't for the bag to look new forever.

The goal is for it to look better because it is yours.

What Should You Look for in a Leather Bag?

A beautiful photograph can tell you only so much. When considering a leather bag intended for years of use, look beyond the initial appearance.

Consider the type of leather, the construction, hardware, stitching, lining and whether the design is something you'll still want to carry years from now.

Also consider how you feel about patina.

If every small mark will bother you, Crazy Horse leather may not be the right choice. If you appreciate leather that develops character and tells the story of how it has been used, it may be exactly what you're looking for.

Leather Goods Made to Be Used

Our own Heirloom Leather collection includes briefcases, travel bags, backpacks, handbags and smaller leather goods selected with this philosophy in mind.

We don't believe a good bag should spend its life protected on a shelf.

Carry it. Travel with it. Take it to work. Let it acquire a few marks.

Years from now, those marks may be precisely what makes it impossible to replace.

And because Pug & Bulldog began with something even more enduring than leather—our lifelong love of dogs—10% of every purchase supports dog rescues.

Good things deserve a long life.

We think that applies to dogs, too.

The Pug & Bulldog Team