The majority of the leather sourced to manufacture shoes at Bolton Footwear come from tanneries which are LWG certified or in the process of becoming certified.Leather Working Group (LWG) is an organisation focusing on the environmental impact caused by leather manufacturing. To become LWG-certified, manufacturers must have implemented programmes for energy use and wastewater. This certificate means the leather will be a byproduct, traceable and sustainable.

SANDIEGO

Aniline leather is the most natural-looking leather type that displays the natural marks and characteristics visible from the animal’s life. The skin displays a lighter pull-up color while maintaining the feel of a waxy drag. Sandiego is sourced from a high-quality hide selection that is chrome-tanned making it ideal for the manufacture of casual shoes. It is water-resistant and with wear, the leather develops a naturally weathered patina which warrants its quality and durability.

SOFTEE

A corrected grain leather was developed specifically to produce a smooth finished leather. This leather undergoes a lengthy tanning process that ensures the final product is durable and has a quality lifespan. Softee’s main quality is in the name and its thickness (substance) makes it ideal for our unlined shoes, making it one of Grasshoppers’ most successful leathers for years.

SUEDE

Suede is a high-quality form of leather, made from the underside of animal skin that has a soft surface and a napped finish. It is characterized by a soft smooth surface with a comfortable feel and decorative look. The look and feel of suede make it a highly desired material.

TORNADO

This is a corrected-grain cow leather with an elephant skin print. This leather’s reliable durability has been proven over time, making it ideal for everyday wear. The feel of the leather softens with time and wear but maintains a strong durable structure.

DALLAS

Dallas is a versatile leather with a smooth nubuck type look and feel creating a perfect, elegant finish to the shoe. It is soft and well suited for all types of footwear. It will show small scratches and marks as leather is a natural, living product.

TEK-TAN

Tek-Tan is a PU coated leather specially developed for school shoes and corporate footwear. It is easy to wipe clean and needs no polish. The leather is soft and durable. Due to the PU coating no defects will appear on the uppers.

LEATHER CARE TIPS

Here are some simple tips you can follow to ensure your shoes keep their ‘sole.’
Always inquire which leather your shoes are made of. Using the correct cleaning products and materials will bring your shoes back to life.

General Suede:
• Suede shoes stain easily, and it will always need special attention.
• Allow the dirt to dry and then gently remove with a suede brush or a toothbrush.
• Make sure to get a suede brush that safely removes the debris and rejuvenates the material.
• Once you are happy with the cleanliness, blot with a damp paper towel and allow to dry.

Casual Leather (Dallas, Diesel, Sandiego, Terminator):
• Leather Shampoo can be used when you have dirt or debris on the shoe.
• Wipe the dirt away with a damp soft cloth and allow it to dry.
• Use leather conditioner to hydrate the leather and bring back the shine.
• Do not treat with colored polish (it can be polished with a regular dry cloth instead).

Formal Leather (Buffcalf / Cobbler / Emu/Lizard/ Hornback and Glace Kid):
• Wipe with a damp soft cloth to remove dust and grime and allow it to dry.

• Apply colour-matched polish or leather cream. Alternatively, use neutral colour leather cream.
• Use a soft brush followed by buffing with a soft cloth for a new and improved sleek finish.

Additional Information:
• Preferably use a microfiber cloth to remove any excess solution and/or dirt.
• A microfiber cloth helps to trap dirt and grime without scratching materials like leather or rubber. They are also an effective product used for shining shoes.