What is Chrome-Tanned Leather?

Why it matters

Chrome-tanned leather is the most widely used leather in the world, accounting for the majority of all leather goods produced today. It is popular with manufacturers because the process is fast, cost-effective, and produces a soft, consistent material that is easy to work with. Shoppers often encounter the term when comparing different types of leather and may notice that many mass-market bags, shoes, and jackets are made this way.

The appeal of chrome-tanned leather lies in its feel and versatility. It is supple, lightweight, and more resistant to water than vegetable-tanned leather. Because the tanning process is completed in days instead of weeks, it is also significantly cheaper to produce, which means products made with chrome-tanned leather are often more affordable.

However, there are trade-offs. The use of chromium salts and other chemicals raises environmental concerns, particularly around waste and water treatment. The leather’s durability can also be lower than that of vegetable-tanned alternatives, and it does not develop as rich or distinctive a patina over time. While chrome-tanned leather can be beautiful and functional, it is often associated with high-volume, lower-cost manufacturing rather than artisanal craftsmanship.

How it works / What it means in leather goods

Chrome tanning is a chemical process that stabilizes the collagen fibers in animal hide using chromium(III) salts. Hides are placed in a solution, often called a tanning bath, where the chromium ions bond with the fibers. This process is much faster than vegetable tanning, usually taking one to three days from start to finish.

The resulting leather is softer, more pliable, and often more uniform in appearance. It is also more resistant to water and heat, which makes it versatile for a wide range of products. Because the tanning process is efficient, manufacturers can produce large quantities of chrome-tanned leather quickly and at lower cost, which is why it dominates the global leather industry.

While chrome-tanned leather is durable enough for everyday use, it does not have the same structural density as vegetable-tanned leather. It is less likely to stiffen or harden over time, but it also does not develop the same depth of character. Many shoppers who value a rich patina and evolving texture prefer vegetable-tanned or full-grain leather for that reason.

Example in Latico products

Latico does not use chrome-tanned leather in any of its products. All of our bags are made from premium full-grain cowhide, chosen for its natural durability, strength, and ability to age beautifully without relying on chemical treatments. Our commitment to craftsmanship and longevity means we avoid tanning processes that do not align with our values or quality standards.

While many leather goods on the market are chrome-tanned, Latico’s choice to use only full-grain leather reflects our belief in creating bags that last for decades and improve with time. We focus on quality, authenticity, and materials that support long-term use and timeless design.

Common mix-ups

Chrome-tanned vs. Vegetable-tanned: These two tanning methods are often compared. Vegetable tanning uses natural plant-based tannins and takes several weeks, resulting in a firmer leather that develops a rich patina. Chrome tanning is much faster, producing a softer leather but with less depth of character.

Chrome-tanned vs. Full-grain: Full-grain refers to the part of the hide used, while chrome tanning refers to the tanning process. Chrome-tanned leather can technically be full-grain, but many high-quality brands choose not to use it because of its chemical nature.

Chrome-tanned vs. Genuine leather: Many genuine leather products are chrome-tanned because the process is inexpensive and efficient. However, “genuine leather” refers to the leather grade, not the tanning method.

Latico’s perspective

At Latico, we are committed to crafting leather goods that stand the test of time, both in quality and character. Chrome tanning does not meet our material standards because we believe in using leather that retains its natural integrity without chemical shortcuts. Our full-grain cowhide ages gracefully, develops a beautiful patina, and maintains its strength for decades.

We include this term in our glossary because many shoppers encounter chrome-tanned leather in their search for leather goods. Understanding what it is and how it differs from the materials we use helps customers make more informed decisions and recognize the value of choosing full-grain leather from Latico.