Cordovan

/kɔːrˈdoʊvən/ noun

Definition

A type of soft, durable leather originally made from goatskin in Córdoba, Spain, now typically made from horse hide and prized for high-quality shoes and accessories.

Etymology

From Córdoba, a city in southern Spain famous for leather production in medieval times. The leather industry made Córdoba renowned throughout Europe, lending its name to this specific leather type that became synonymous with quality craftsmanship.

Kelly Says

Cordovan leather is so special that it becomes darker and richer with age—serious shoe collectors treat cordovan oxfords like fine wine, polishing them for decades and actually looking forward to the patina that develops, making them more beautiful over time.

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