Mistake 02
You trust the words "genuine leather"
"Genuine leather" sounds reassuring. It tells you that real leather is used, but it does not tell you exactly what type of leather it is or how it has been finished.
Full-grain leather keeps the natural grain surface of the hide intact. It is valued for its strength, natural character and the way it develops with wear.
Other types of leather can be made from different parts of the hide, finished with coatings or combined with other materials. These leathers can look good when new, but they generally do not develop the same natural character as full-grain leather, which keeps the natural outer grain surface of the hide intact.
That difference often becomes more visible over time. A full-grain strap tends to develop character as it ages, while other types can show more visible surface wear, such as cracking, peeling or separation.
That is also why the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has guidelines for clear leather labeling.
Do this instead
Look for specific information about the leather rather than relying on the words "genuine leather" alone.
“I love this belt! The leather is high quality and I really like the distressed/aged leather look.”
★★★★★ Cydney W. Verified buyer