Understanding Leather Grades

Selecting the right leather for a contract project involves balancing aesthetics, durability, and budget. Here is what specifiers need to know.

Full-Grain Leather

The highest grade — the entire hide, including the natural grain. It develops a beautiful patina over time and is extremely durable. Ideal for high-end hospitality applications where character matters.

Top-Grain Leather

The second-highest grade, with the top layer sanded to remove imperfections. More uniform in appearance than full-grain but slightly less durable. A popular choice for commercial interiors.

Corrected-Grain Leather

Also known as embossed leather — the surface has been sanded and an artificial grain applied. More affordable and stain-resistant, suitable for high-traffic areas.

Our Leather Categories

CategoryGradeBest For

Cat. A–BTop-GrainLight commercial, residential

Cat. C–DFull-GrainPremium hospitality, <a href="/products/trento-desk/" class="seo-inline-link">executive</a> offices

Cat. E–GFull-Grain SpecialLuxury projects, custom finishes

Care and Maintenance

All our contract-grade leathers are treated for stain resistance, but regular maintenance extends life. We recommend a professional cleaning schedule every 6–12 months for hospitality installations.