Collection: Shell Cordovan

428 products

Shell Cordovan, the crown jewel of equine leathers, is smooth and supple to the touch, incredibly durable, and carries a luster that only gets better with age and use. It comes from the "shell," the layer of strong connective tissue below the hide of a horse's hindquarters.

Ashland Leather offers a full line of wallets, belts, and watch bands made from Horween® Shell Cordovan, tanned in what the Chicago Tribune called the Cordovan Capital of the World. Learn about Horween® leather and how it ages.

Handcrafted in Chicago. Guaranteed for Life.

Shell Cordovan FAQs

What is Shell Cordovan?

It is not a hide but the dense membrane beneath it, taken from the hindquarters of a horse. Horween® vegetable tans it in Chicago over a process that runs months, then shaves and hand-glazes every shell. Learn about Horween® leather and how the tannages differ.

What does Ashland make from Shell Cordovan?

Wallets, belts, and watch bands, all cut and handcrafted in Chicago. Availability moves with what Horween® releases, so colors come and go.

Why does the color vary between pieces?

Shell Cordovan is aniline finished, so the dye sits in the leather rather than on top of a pigment coat. Every shell takes color differently, and two wallets in the same color can read noticeably different.

Is Shell Cordovan water-resistant?

Its density makes it water-resistant, not waterproof. Blot water off with a dry cloth, let the piece dry at room temperature away from heat, then brush the area to even out the surface.

How do I care for Shell Cordovan?

A soft horsehair brush is the main tool. Brushing redistributes the waxes already in the leather and restores the luster. Condition rarely and sparingly, since heavy product dulls the finish.

What does the lifetime guarantee cover?

We guarantee stitching and leather against coming apart under normal use. Exceptions: misuse of the product. Not a blanket replace-for-any-reason policy. Full details are on our returns and guarantees page.