We want you to enjoy the comfort and functionality of your soccer boots as well as protect your investment. To do so, it is important to understand the basics of leather terminology as well as its maintenance.

Leather is a natural material made from the hides of animals. Just as no two animals are exactly alike, no two pieces of leather are identical. In addition to its own genetic heritage, each hide bears the little nicks and cuts that marked the animal during its lifetime. These natural characteristics are not defects, and are considered marks of distinction in "full grain" leather, adding to the unique appeal of each finished product. When a more uniform appearance is required, the leather can be sanded to produce what is called a "corrected grain".

When hides are converted to leather, all non-essential parts of the original animal hide are removed, leaving only the surface "grain" and middle corium layers. It is the remarkable structure of this corium - made up of millions of microscopic fibers, twisted and interwoven by nature - that gives leather its highly tensile strength and other desirable qualities. One of the best leather for soccer shoes is Kangaroo. Because of its high tensile strength, Kangaroo leather can be cut very thin thus providing excellent "feel" of the soccer ball.

High grade leathers include kangaroo, calfskin, goatskin, and highly processed leathers such as "Pittards". Medium grades include full grain cowhide, pigskin, suede, and Nubuck suede. Lower grades include split grain cowhide and corrected leathers which have a polyurethane covering and are not long lasting leathers for soccer boots.

In the tanning process, the hides are chemically cured to prevent deterioration. The chemicals used in this process also enhance the flexibility of leather and improve its ability to withstand extreme humidity and temperatures. Tanning is followed by another process that restores some of the natural lubricants lost during the conversion of raw hide into finished leather.

The qualities of leather - created by nature and preserved by the tanner - are superior to those of any man-made or synthetic material.

Flexibility - Leather stretches so it conforms to the contours of your feet, yet retains sufficient shape to provide support.

Durability - Leather "breathes" allowing air in and moisture out. A natural insulator, leather protects against extremes in temperatures and humidity.

Beauty - By its very nature, leather comes in a wide range of pleasing textures and surface patterns. It also takes well to a variety of finishing processes, designs, and color applications.