Cordovan is a type of leather renowned for its unique luster and smooth texture.

Among the many types of leather, it is particularly popular, and its scarcity further contributes to its widespread fan base around the world.

However, despite its luxurious image, many people seem hesitant to purchase cordovan products, or are overly cautious about how often they use them, perhaps thinking they might be difficult to handle.

But cordovan products can be used casually every day, as long as you keep a few key points in mind. In fact, it's a type of leather that allows you to enjoy changes like deepening luster and color the most through daily contact.

In this blog post, we will introduce "tips for enjoying cordovan leather products on a daily basis."

Basic Knowledge of Cordovan

Cordovan is a leather made from the hide of a horse's rump.

While common leather utilizes the texture of its surface (grain), cordovan is finished by shaving and polishing a dense fiber layer called the "cordovan layer" located inside the skin. This results in a smooth, even sheen with almost no visible pores.

However, only about two pieces of cordovan leather, one from each side, can be harvested from a single horse. The overall supply of horse leather is already limited, and the tanning process requires skilled craftsmanship and a long time, so the amount available on the market is very small. Due to its rarity and beauty, it is sometimes called the "diamond of leather."

Munekawa uses "Shell Cordovan" from Horween in America. It is known as the highest-grade variety of cordovan.

Its fibers are extremely dense, and by thoroughly impregnating it with oil, it achieves a unique texture that is both firm and supple. As it ages, it develops an even more beautiful luster, making it a leather whose charm only deepens with extended use.

▶︎Reference article: Oil Maintenance for the Full Cordovan L-zip Wallet Cram in use

Reasons why Cordovan is considered "hard to approach"

As mentioned earlier, cordovan is rare and tends to be more expensive than other leather materials. Additionally, due to its nature, there are certain points to be aware of when handling it compared to other leathers.

1. Vulnerable to water

When handling cordovan, the most important thing to be careful of is water exposure. Cordovan absorbs water easily, and water droplets can cause stains or blisters.

Furthermore, in summer, the salt from sweat can cause discoloration. Summer, with its high humidity and sudden weather changes, can be a challenging season for cordovan.

2. Small scratches are noticeable

Cordovan's glossy, smooth surface tends to make even minor scratches noticeable. Scratches often occur when the wallet rubs against hard objects like keys inside a bag.

Minor scratches may become less noticeable as the leather ages, but large scratches are difficult to completely remove, so caution is advised when storing it in a bag.

However, both susceptibility to water and scratches are not exclusive to cordovan; they are common concerns for all natural leathers.

Water stains can often be resolved by promptly wiping away moisture. Scratches, too, can blend into the luster and become less noticeable with use, or even serve as a catalyst for aging.

Furthermore, cordovan is known for its excellent strength and resistance to losing its shape. As long as you keep a few precautions in mind, it can be used as an everyday item for a long time. So, don't be overly concerned, and if you're interested, please give it a try.

Four Key Points for Everyday Use

When using cordovan daily, it's important to develop a few simple habits. Keeping these four points in mind will help you feel at ease:

Be careful with water exposure

Be especially careful with cordovan around water. Pay particular attention when going out on rainy days, and avoid repeatedly touching it with wet hands. Simply being mindful of not getting it wet on a daily basis can significantly reduce problems.

If it gets wet, wipe it off quickly and gently.

If it does get wet, don't panic. Gently press a dry, soft cloth onto the area to absorb the moisture as soon as possible. Do not rub vigorously or try to dry it quickly with a hairdryer. This can damage the surface or worsen the stain. After wiping off water droplets, allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Be careful where you store it

When carrying it, it's best to store your wallet in a sub-pocket of your bag or another location where it won't rub against keys or other hard objects, preventing scratches. Also, during hot summer months, avoid putting it in your pants pocket. Sweat and friction can cause water stains and scratches.

Avoid care creams and oils with high water content

When caring for your cordovan, avoid creams and oils with a high water content. These products, when containing a lot of water, can actually cause water spots and unevenness. Choose a cream specifically for cordovan or one that is suitable for it, and apply a very small amount, spreading it thinly.

Cordovan-specific cream "Collonil Premium Series Cordovan Cream"

Can water stains disappear? Observing the progress of a staff member's wallet

Many of you might be wondering, "What happens if a water stain appears?" To answer this, a production staff member has been continuously using their Cordovan L-zip wallet "Cram", which previously had a water stain, and we have been tracking its progress.

The color is burgundy. It's a deep wine-red shell cordovan. About three months have passed since it started being used, and at present, there are no major changes overall, but a faint water stain can be seen on the surface.

As cordovan is used, its luster gradually increases due to the natural oils from your hands and friction, and the surface becomes smoother. While we cannot guarantee that they will completely disappear, light water stains can become less noticeable with oil care and continued use.

We will continue to track and report on how the water stain changes in the future.

Summary

Cordovan can be used casually in daily life if you keep a few points in mind. Water stains and scratches can also blend in as part of its character with continued use.

While it has delicate aspects, it is also a highly durable leather. Without being overly anxious, why not try starting with small leather accessories if you're interested?

Munekawa also produces and sells leather products made from cordovan. You can see them at our directly managed store in Daikokucho, Osaka, so please feel free to come and experience the actual texture and luster for yourself.

Additionally, from June 20th to June 29th at 10:00, 20 select customers will receive a "Collonil Care Cream Kit" as a gift campaign.

Collonil leather care cream is a versatile leather care cream that can also be used on cordovan. It is recommended for those who are unsure what to use.

Please check it out and try the care cream kit.

Please check the details of the campaign on the page below.

▶︎Limited-time Collonil Care Cream Kit Present Campaign [Limited to 20 people・6/20 ~ 6/29]

▶︎Click here for details on the Collonil Care Cream Kit

▶︎Click here for details on Munekawa's directly managed store