A Buyer's Guide for Superior Leather Bondage
Learn the difference between low-quality leather and heirloom-grade material, and why we choose the best for your play, safety, and pleasure.
While the thought of leather immediately conjures up feelings of elegance, adding to the sensual vibe and excitement of your bondage scene — it’s unfortunately far too easy to find yourself with a poor quality leather product that ends up killing the mood instead of enhancing it.
We're here to help demystify leather terminology so you never find yourself in that position again. This guide gives you confidence that your purchase is worth the money — and will last for years to come.
What We Use at LVX
Here at LVX Supply we take immense pride in using only the highest possible quality materials. Our ability to offer high-end, fully custom pieces for impact, bondage, and fetish fantasies depends on it.
But what does "full grain veg tan" mean? How does it compare to top grain or genuine leather? How can you tell the difference when you’re holding a piece in your hand?
The Myth of "Genuine" Leather
Despite sounding high quality, "genuine leather" is a vague, catch-all term for low-grade leather that deteriorates quickly. It’s technically leather — but only just.
This material is a bottom cut taken from the innermost layer of a hide, where collagen fibers are weakest. It frays, feels spongy, and breaks down easily. It’s the lowest grade still legally allowed to be called leather.
Top Grain Leather
Top grain is better — it's from the outer grain of the hide — but has been sanded and altered to look smooth and uniform. It’s common in mid-range leather goods and sacrifices character for consistency.
Full Grain: The Highest Quality
Full grain leather uses the entire outer layer of the hide, completely intact. It shows the natural character of the animal, with strength and durability unmatched by any other cut.
We use full grain veg tan leather for our goods. Marks or textures are celebrated, not hidden. These are the hallmarks of authenticity, uniqueness, and longevity.
Over time, full grain leather develops a patina — a soft sheen and deepening of color that reflects your individual use. This aging is considered a premium feature and adds unique beauty to every piece.
Veg Tan vs. Chrome Tan Outers
Besides the cut, how leather is tanned makes a huge difference. For all of our outers, we choose vegetable tanning — an organic method using tree bark and natural tannins.
Veg tan leather has a firmer texture at first, but softens beautifully with use. It smells like real leather and patinas with age. Chrome tanning, while cheaper and faster, sacrifices longevity and quality — and often begins with inferior hides.
Why We Choose Full Grain Veg Tan
We respect the material. That’s why we don’t discard hides with minor scars or variations — these are signs of real leather, not flaws. We minimize waste and maximize the natural beauty of the hide.
When you buy from us, you get a one-of-a-kind piece that grows with you. You’re not just buying gear — you’re investing in something that holds value beyond the price tag.
Leather Care Tips
Avoid water and heat. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and condition as needed with a quality leather balm (available in our shop). Store flat or hung, preferably buckled at your preferred size, do not hard fold, especially if wet.
Have Questions?
We’re always happy to help. Contact us here.