Leather Care Guide: How to Care for Your Leather and Make It Last

Good leather is made to be used.

It will see water, sun, cold mornings and long days outside. It will pick up marks along the way. That is part of it.

With the right care, it will not wear out. It will wear in.

This guide will help you take care of your leather gear and better understand the materials we are using.

How to Care for Your Leather Gear

Leather does not need much. But a few simple habits will go a long way.

Keep It Dry After Use

After a day on the water or outside, use a cloth to wipe your leather dry.

If it gets wet, let it dry naturally before storing it. Avoid direct heat as it can dry the leather too quickly and cause it to stiffen.

Condition It When Needed

We recommend using Canadian Beeseal leather conditioner a few times a year depending on how often you use your gear.

Using a soft cloth, apply the conditioner in circular motions. Let it absorb and wipe off any excess before storing your gear.

Let It Age

Marks and wear are not flaws. They are part of how the leather evolves.

Good leather develops a patina over time. It reflects where it has been and how it has been used.

A Note on Shearling

Some of our fly wallets use bark-tanned sheep shearling on the inside.

This is not synthetic fleece or treated wool. It is a natural material that keeps its softness and structure over time.

It does not need much maintenance. If it gets damp, let it air dry naturally. Avoid compressing it while wet and it will keep its loft and feel.

Like the leather, it will age with use while staying functional.

Understanding the Different Types of Leather

Not all leather is created equal. Each type has its own characteristics and uses.

Full-Grain Leather

The highest quality available. It includes the entire grain layer of the hide, natural scars, wrinkles and all.

It is strong, durable and develops a rich patina over time. This is what we use for most Timber&Fins products.

Vegetable-Tanned Leather

Tanned using natural tannins from bark and plants.

It starts firm and breaks in with use. Over time it develops depth and character. It is also a more environmentally responsible option and widely used in traditional leatherwork.

Chrome-Tanned Leather

Tanned using chromium salts, resulting in a softer and more flexible leather.

There are very high-quality chrome-tanned leathers that perform extremely well, especially in applications where flexibility and water resistance are important.

The process is faster and more common in modern production.

Made to Be Used

Every piece we make is sewn and finished by hand in our Montreal workshop using materials chosen for how they perform in real use.

On the water. In the field. Over time.

Take care of it and it will take care of you.