CF Stead produces some of the most unique hides around and their elk has been on my sight for some time. At a distance it looks quite similar to kudu so I wasn’t sure if there would be much difference between the two.

After initial handling, the elk feels noticeably softer with a dense fiber. Both have natural marks and scars, although the marks on the elk are much more subtle compared to kudu. Perhaps due to the sparse environment up north. What makes the elk unique is its fissured surface which makes this leather appear to be cracking with a napped texture. It’s not quite nubuck nor smooth, but can be rounded off with some patina. Simply put, the hide feels like an old barn find.

Two new colours of kudu (tundra and woodland) are also now available. Tundra is a bluish grey and woodland is a dark brown with an amber undertone. I’ll be adding some product examples of the new leathers in the next few weeks ✌️

The elk is currently available for:

• Watch strap.

• Classic bifold exterior.

• Japanese wallet exterior.