Rawhide Leather

What is Rawhide or Rawhide Leather?

Rawhide is a type of leather that is derived from the hides of animals, typically cattle, but also from other animals such as goat, deer, elk, and buffalo. People refer to rawhides as “rawhide” or “rawhide leather” because the term “rawhide leather” highlights its origin as an animal hide and emphasizing its raw, untreated state. What sets rawhide apart from tanned leather is the absence of the tanning processes. Instead, rawhides are simply cleaned, chemically de-haired, stretched, and dried, resulting in a natural material that is stiff, tough, and exceptionally strong.

About Our Rawhide Leather

All rawhide leather hides are supplied in uncut condition and priced per hide. They have have been chemically de-haired, cured, then stretched and dried for further processing. We stock only in natural amber color which is the strongest type. Bleaching rawhides for cosmetic whitening will weaken the hide fibers leading to splitting of the grain over time.

Types of Rawhides Available

Deer Rawhide

Deer rawhide is known for its relative softness and pliability compared to bovine rawhide. Deer rawhide is sold by the whole hide and come in a natural amber color, lighter in weight and are smaller in size averaging 10-15 sq. ft. As these are wild hunted skins, they may have some range marks, bullet holes and/or knife cuts.

Elk Rawhide

Elk rawhide is prized for its durability and toughness. Elk rawhide is sold by the whole hide, comes in a natural amber color averaging 15-18 sq.ft and are somewhat heavier in weight. Ideal for drum cover rawhides. It is commonly used in applications where extra strength is needed, such as in heavy-duty drum heads and robust laces.

Buffalo Rawhide

Buffalo rawhide is known for its robustness and thickness. The largest and thickest of rawhides, they average 30-40 sq.ft. in size. This type of rawhide is incredibly tough and is often used in products that require extra durability, such as heavy-duty laces, larger drum heads, and industrial applications. Its unique texture also makes it a popular choice for decorative items that need a rugged appearance.

Bovine / Cowhide Rawhide

Bovine or commonly know as cowhide rawhide, derived from cattle, is the most prevalent type due to its size and strength. Cowhide rawhides weights are approximately 3-5 oz and average 15-18 sqft in dry condition or about 6 ft long by 3 ft wide. These are cow sides or half hides only. Great for larger drum covers and where a heavier rawhide is required or rawhide lacing.

Goatskin Rawhide

Goatskin rawhide is recognized for its thinness and flexibility. Goatskin rawhides are the smallest and lightest rawhides. They will average 7-10 sq.ft. in size and are in natural grey color and are usually clear of holes. It is often utilized in fine, detailed work such as intricate laces, small drum heads, accent braiding, and lightweight crafts. Despite its thinness, goatskin rawhide maintains a good level of strength, making it suitable for precision applications.

Typical Uses of Rawhide Leathers

Some of our customers use our rawhides in:

• Western and Southwestern Rustic Décor Themes.
  By incorporating rawhide into interior décor items like lamps, designers and homeowners can create spaces that are both visually appealing and authentically rustic. The material’s natural beauty and resilience make it a timeless choice for rustic and traditional interior design​ Items like rawhide lamp shades, furniture accents and lanterns are often used in lodges, ranches, and rustic cabins to enhance the thematic elements.
• Indigenous Arts and Native Crafts
  Many indigenous cultures use rawhide in the creation of decorative arts and native craft items such as drum heads, baskets, masks, shields, rattles, dream-catchers and other ceremonial objects. The use of rawhide in these contexts is deeply rooted in tradition and cultural practices​, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of indigenous peoples.
• Saddlery & Tack Applications
  In the horse tack and saddlery industries, rawhides are sought after for their toughness and resilience under stress. Rawhide is used for tying, repairing, and reinforcing saddles, saddle horns, stirrups, cantle bindings, reins and other horse tack, Rawhide is frequently used for its strength and decorative appeal including in braiding. This braiding technique is prized for its beauty and functionality​ including in the manufacture of romal reins, bosals, and other tack.