The Journal
The difference between hair-on-hide / ponyskin and traditional leather
A Material with Natural Character The beauty of hair on hide, or ponyskin as it is sometimes known, is that no two pieces are quite the same. Smooth leather may behave itself and keep things consis...
A Material with Natural Character
The beauty of hair on hide, or ponyskin as it is sometimes known, is that no two pieces are quite the same. Smooth leather may behave itself and keep things consistent, but hair on hide has a little more personality. Natural markings, changes in texture and subtle variations mean every finished piece has its own character.
With the right care, it can remain beautiful for years. Supple leather combined with natural hair gives it that wonderfully tactile finish and, admittedly, makes it rather difficult not to stroke.
So... what exactly is hair on hide?
Despite the name ponyskin, there are no ponies involved. Hair on hide is one of those materials that tends to raise a few questions, so we thought it was time to clear things up. What is it? How is it different from traditional cowhide? And, most importantly, how do you keep it looking its best?
Hair on hide is made from animal hide where the natural hair is deliberately retained during the tanning process. The hide is carefully treated and preserved while keeping the original coat intact. This creates a distinctive material with natural hair on one side and supple leather on the other.
The natural hair creates a tactile surface and introduces pattern, texture and movement to the material. No two pieces are exactly the same, making it particularly interesting for bags, accessories and statement pieces.
How do you properly care for it?
1. Regular cleaning
Dust and debris can build up between the hairs and dull the appearance of the hide. Use a soft bristled brush, such as a clean horsehair brush, to gently remove surface dirt.
Always brush in the direction of the natural hair growth. This helps to keep the hair smooth and reduces the risk of pulling or damaging it.
2. Spot cleaning
If something is spilled onto hair on hide, gently blot the area immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
Avoid rubbing the surface, as this can disturb or mat the hair.
For more stubborn marks, a lightly dampened cloth can be used to carefully wipe the affected area. Avoid soaking the hide and always test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first.
3. Keep moisture under control
Hair on hide does not respond well to excessive moisture. Prolonged exposure to water can affect the leather and may weaken the hair and its attachment to the hide, potentially leading to hair loss.
For this reason, keep hair on hide away from heavy rain, spills and damp environments wherever possible. If it does become wet, gently blot away the moisture and allow it to dry naturally.
5. Avoid heat and direct sunlight
Extended exposure to heat or strong direct sunlight can dry the leather and cause the natural colour of the hair to fade.
When storing or displaying a hair on hide item, keep it away from radiators, heaters and prolonged direct sunlight. A cool, dry environment is ideal.
