Ashland Leather Knowledge Base

Start with the complete Horween® leather guide, compare tannages, then use the workshop's step-by-step leather care guide. These guides explain what we use in our Chicago shop and how to care for it.

Understand Horween® leather

Horween® leather guide
Compare Shell Cordovan, Chromexcel®, Dublin, Cypress and Latigo by feel, finish and how they wear in.

What is Shell Cordovan?
Learn what the shell is, why it resists creasing, and how Horween® produces it in Chicago.

Shell Cordovan versus Chromexcel®
Compare the source, tannage, aging, scratching and care routines side by side.

Is Shell Cordovan worth it?
Understand the benefits and tradeoffs before choosing a shell wallet or belt.

Care for your leather

Horween® leather care guide
Choose the right brush, conditioner or polish for each leather and avoid over-conditioning.

Shop leather care
Browse Tanner's Blend, Venetian Shoe Cream, horsehair brushes and care accessories.

What is bloom on leather?
Learn why waxes and oils can form a cloudy film and how brushing restores the finish.

How to remove salt stains from leather boots
Follow Phil's measured vinegar-and-water method, then let the leather dry naturally.

Shell Cordovan tutorials

How to polish Shell Cordovan
Brush, wipe, and use a very small amount of Venetian Shoe Cream to build luster.

Shell Cordovan scratch guide
Support the leather, work a little polish into a scuff, smooth it and buff.

Chromexcel® tutorials

How to polish Chromexcel®
Use brushing and a light conditioning step to bring back the finish.

Chromexcel® scratch guide
Minimize surface scuffs by moving the natural waxes and oils through the leather.

Choose your next piece

Visit Made in USA and Made in Chicago for the origin story, or explore men's leather wallets, leather belts and leather bags.