Vegetable Tanning: Why We Chose a More Refined Leather for Our Equestrian Equipment

When choosing a leather halter or bridle, aesthetics often catch the eye first. Yet, the true quality of equipment reveals itself over time. At LEVADE, we have chosen to use leather from a vegetable tannery, a traditional method known for its quality, durability, and elegance.

What is vegetable tanning?

Vegetable tanning is an ancestral technique that transforms raw hide into leather using natural tannins extracted from bark, leaves, roots, or even fruits.

Unlike chrome tanning, widely used in the industry for its speed, vegetable tanning requires more time and expertise. This process results in a more authentic, more vibrant leather that is particularly valued in high-end leather goods and premium equestrian equipment.

Leather that gets more beautiful with time

One of the greatest qualities of vegetable-tanned leather is its ability to develop a magnificent natural patina.

• The leather gains character.
• It gradually becomes more supple.
• Its color evolves naturally.
• Each piece of equipment becomes unique.

A halter or bridle made of vegetable-tanned leather doesn't age: it improves year after year.

Superior comfort for the horse

Vegetable-tanned leather is known for its progressive suppleness. After a few uses, it naturally conforms to the horse's shape, limiting pressure points and improving its daily comfort.

Combined with regular care, it durably retains its softness, suppleness, and resistance.

Excellent durability

Investing in quality leather means choosing equipment designed to last. Thanks to the density of its fibers, leather from a vegetable tannery offers:

• Excellent tensile strength.
• A long lifespan.
• Very good durability over time.
• A premium appearance even after several seasons.

With proper care, a halter or bridle can accompany your horse for many years.

A more environmentally friendly method

Vegetable tanning primarily uses natural extracts from plants. Although no industrial process is entirely without impact, this method greatly limits the use of certain chemicals used in other tanning techniques.

Choosing vegetable-tanned leather means opting for a more traditional, more sustainable, and more responsible manufacturing process.

Why LEVADE made this choice

Our ambition is simple: to offer equipment that combines elegance, comfort, and durability.

We select leather from recognized tanneries to offer products capable of accompanying riders for many years.

• ✔ Supple and pleasant leather in hand.
• ✔ A high-end finish.
• ✔ Excellent resistance.
• ✔ A timeless style inspired by classic horsemanship.

Because beautiful equipment should be as pleasant to use as it is to look at.

How to care for vegetable-tanned leather?

A few simple steps can preserve all the beauty of your equipment:

• Regularly clean the leather with a soft cloth.
• Use glycerin soap after intensive sessions.
• Nourish the leather with a specific balm several times a year.
• Store the equipment in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Well-maintained leather will develop a superb patina while retaining its suppleness for many years.