Cuero

Cuero is the material produced by tanning animal hides, and it is widely used in a range of products such as footwear, clothing, bags, furniture, and industrial goods. In everyday usage, cuero also refers to the hides themselves before or after processing. The term is used across Spanish-speaking regions to denote leather in general, while piel more often refers to skin in a biological sense.

Production and varieties: Converting hides into cuero involves cleaning, fleshing, dehairing, and sometimes splitting, followed by tanning to stabilize collagen and increase durability. Common tanning methods include vegetable tanning, which uses tannins from tree bark, and chromium tanning, which employs chromium salts. Finishing steps may involve dyeing, polishing, embossing, and surface treatments that affect texture and color. Leather is classified by origin (for example, cattle, sheep, goat, or exotic skins) as well as by finish (full-grain, corrected-grain, suede, nubuck, patent).

Properties and uses: Cuero is valued for its combination of strength, flexibility, and breathability. Properly conditioned leather resists wear and develops a patina over time, though it can dry, crack, or stain if not cared for. Maintenance typically involves cleaning and conditioning, while repellents or waterproofing treatments can extend its life. Modern leather products span traditional saddlery and footwear to fashion items and upholstery.

Sustainability and terminology: Leather production raises environmental concerns related to tanning chemicals and water use. Alternatives such as synthetic or plant-based leathers are increasingly used. In Spanish, cuero generally denotes leather as a crafted material, while piel refers to undressed skin.