pigskin

Pigskin refers to the skin of a domestic pig. In leatherwork it denotes a soft, pliable leather that is more porous and less durable than cowhide, and it has been used in a range of products, including gloves, upholstery, and decorative items. In the realm of sports equipment, pigskin historically described the exterior of American footballs; early footballs were covered with pigskin and, at times, inflated pig bladders inside. In modern practice, professional footballs are typically made from cowhide leather, though the nickname "pigskin" persists in American English as a traditional reference to a football.

In culinary contexts, pigskin commonly refers to cooked pig skin, such as pork rind, cracklings, or chicharrón, which are eaten as snacks or used in dishes in many cultures. The preparation and terminology vary by region, but pigskin as a food item is widely recognized as a crunchy, flavorful ingredient when rendered or fried.