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A question we often receive at Bomboná is: “Do you use real leather? What kind of leather do you use?” Some of our clients are curious about the difference between Full Grain Leather, Top Grain Leather, and Genuine Leather, and which one we use in our creations.
So today, we’d love to share more about our materials and why Full Grain Leather is essential to our identity.
The Leather Behind the Tradition
Our signature bags are inspired by Colombia’s iconic carriel or coffee saddlebag—an accessory deeply rooted in the daily journeys of muleteers transporting coffee from the mountains to be processed. This heritage piece is both practical and symbolic, and we honor that legacy in every Bomboná design.
All of our bags are made in Colombia, specifically in Nariño, using leather sourced locally from this mountainous region. We only work with leather that is a by-product of the farming industry, staying true to our commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability.
Why Nariño?
Nariño, located in the southern Andes of Colombia, is not only known for its high-altitude coffee but also for producing some of the best leather in Colombia—and even in Latin America. The region’s climate and elevation reduce the presence of pests, resulting in healthier cattle and superior hides with fewer imperfections.
This natural advantage makes Nariño an ideal source for high-quality Full Grain Leather, and it’s the only leather we use at Bomboná.
Understanding the Different Types of Leather
Not all leather is created equal. Let’s break down the differences between the most commonly used types:
1. Genuine Leather
While it technically means the product is made from real leather, Genuine Leather is often made from the lower layers of the hide or from compressed leather scraps. It lacks durability, softness, and natural grain. You’ll find this type of leather in inexpensive shoes, wallets, and bags. It’s better than synthetic materials—but far from the best.
Also important: the label “genuine leather” doesn’t guarantee high quality—it simply means the leather is real, not faux. But it’s often the lowest quality available in real leather goods.
2. Top Grain Leather
Top Grain Leather comes from the outer layer of the hide, but its surface is sanded and treated to remove imperfections. This results in a smoother, more uniform appearance, but the process also removes the most durable part of the hide. It’s softer and more flexible than Genuine Leather but less robust than Full Grain.
3. Full Grain Leather
This is the highest grade of leather available. It comes from the very top layer of the hide and retains all of the natural grain, making it strong, durable, and rich in character. Its surface shows the unique marks, wrinkles, and texture of the animal’s skin.
Over time, Full Grain Leather develops a beautiful patina—a soft shine and depth that only improves with age and use. This makes it a favorite for high-end leather goods, from artisanal bags to premium footwear and furniture.
To help your bag age gracefully and maintain its beauty for years to come, we’ve put together a simple guide on how to take care of leather.
At Bomboná, every piece is crafted from Full Grain Leather sourced from Nariño. It’s one of the reasons our customers love the texture, feel, and organic beauty of our bags. Each fold, mark, and variation tells a story of authenticity.
How Can You Tell If Leather Is Real?
One of the easiest ways to identify real leather is by its texture and scent. Real leather has a distinctive, natural smell and a slightly uneven surface. If your bag feels too smooth or perfect, it may not be real leather—or it may be a heavily processed version. With Full Grain Leather, you’ll often see slight imperfections, which are actually signs of quality and authenticity.
The Beauty of Imperfection
You may wonder: “What if I prefer a completely smooth, flawless leather surface?” That’s a great question—and one we’ll explore in our next article, where we’ll dive into Bomboná’s philosophy, the beauty of imperfection, and our commitment to sustainability in luxury.
Until then, we invite you to experience the richness of real materials and meaningful craftsmanship—with a bag that only gets better with time.
Con cariño,
The Bomboná Team