Goatskins

Goatskins are hides obtained from goats. They are processed for use as leather and, in some cases, prepared as drum membranes. Goat leather is valued for being lighter and softer than many other leathers, while offering good durability and breathability.

Production and properties: Hides are cleaned and hair removed, then tanned by vegetable, chromium, or other tanning methods. The resulting leather tends to have a fine grain and high flexibility relative to weight. This makes it suitable for gloves, lightweight jackets, footwear, and small leather goods. Finishes range from smooth to suede-like, and the leather can be further treated for water resistance or color-fastness.

Applications: Beyond fashion and accessories, goatskin is used in bookbindings and upholstery where a lighter, more pliable leather is advantageous. In music, goatskin membranes are used for drum heads in various traditional drums, valued for their elasticity and responsive tone. Historically, goatskins have also been used to make wineskins and water bags in many cultures.

Other considerations: Goatskins are often a byproduct of meat production and enter the leather supply chain through tanning. Environmental considerations influence industry practices, with some producers pursuing vegetable tanning or low-toxicity finishes to reduce environmental impact. Globally, goatskin leather supports a range of markets including fashion, crafts, and musical instruments.