What is deerskin leather?
When it comes to luxury leathers, a few names stand out,calfskin, shell cordovan, and Horween’s Chromexcel among them. But there’s one that quietly sits at the pinnacle of softness and comfort, deerskin leather. At GORAL, we work with some of the world’s most exclusive leathers, and deerskin holds a special place in that lineup. But what makes it so unique?
As its name suggests, deerskin comes from the hide of a deer. Unlike bovine leathers (cowhide or calfskin), which are denser and firmer, deerskin is prized for its supple texture and natural grain. Historically, it was used by Native American tribes for clothing and moccasins due to its comfort, breathability, and durability, qualities that still make it highly sought-after today.
The first thing you notice when handling deerskin is its buttery softness. It’s pliable in the hand and molds beautifully to the shape of the foot, making it an incredible choice for footwear. While some leathers take months to break in, deerskin feels comfortable from the very first wear.
Don’t let the softness fool you. Deerskin is also incredibly strong and resistant to abrasion. Unlike calfskin, which can scuff more easily, deerskin’s fibrous structure gives it a resilience that balances comfort with durability. It also has natural water resistance compared to many other leathers, which makes it practical as well as beautiful.
Another hallmark of deerskin is its pebbled grain. Each hide is unique, giving the finished leather a natural, organic look that’s difficult to replicate. This texture adds depth and character to the shoes, ensuring they don’t just look luxurious but also feel alive with personality.
At GORAL, we chose deerskin for our Huxley sneakers because it delivers on everything we value, comfort, craftsmanship, and longevity. It’s rare, it’s refined, and it’s a material that makes every pair feel truly special. Deerskin is for those who want more than just footwear, it’s for those who appreciate heritage, natural beauty, and timeless luxury. Key features of deerskin:
- Soft and supple: unrivalled comfort from day one
- Durable: tough enough to last a lifetime
- Distinctive: unique grain that develops character with age
- Luxury feel: a material reserved for the finest footwear
