Alligator leather vs crocodile leather: sounds similar but very different

When it comes to luxury leathers, it’s impossible to ignore the reptile leathers. In this article, we are going to discuss two types of famous reptile leathers: alligator skin versus crocodile skin.

Crocodile is a collective term and it is often used to represent various reptile species like alligators, Nile crocodiles, salt water crocodiles, and many more. In this article, we will use this term to address Nile and saltwater crocodiles only.

People often confuse both types of leather and sometimes use the terms alligator and crocodile leather interchangeably. However, they are entirely different kinds of leather that come from different animals. Even though alligators and crocodiles are both reptiles, they are not related to each other.

Both of these leathers are not easily available, and the trade of them is highly regulated. It’s crucial to check all the regulations regarding the trade and use of these reptiles before buying, as they are protected under various laws. In some countries like India, they are fully banned.

Both alligator leather and crocodile leather are among the top choices for high-end luxury fashion houses such as Hermes and many more, thanks to their distinct appearance and texture.

Origin

Sources of alligator leather and crocodile leather are totally different they come from different types of animals which are not even closely relative, thus they also differ in their properties.

Alligator leather

Alligator skin comes from a reptile called alligator. It comes from the belly and back area of the animal. These hides are harvested from legally hunted or alligators raised on farms. It is mainly sourced from the United States, particularly from states like Florida and Texas where alligator farming is legal. Some skins are also sourced from Asian and African countries but America leads the market when it comes to gator skins.

Crocodile leather

Crocodile leather as the name suggests comes from the skins of crocodiles. Majorly two types of crocodiles are chosen for their skins: Nile crocodile and saltwater crocodile. Croco hide can also be harvested from farmed as well as wild crocodiles (legal and regulated) from various countries. wild crocodile skins are sourced from parts of Africa and Asia. On the other hand, Farmed crocodile skins are sourced from countries like South America, Australia, Thailand, the United States, and South Africa.

Appearance

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Both alligator and crocodile skins are very different as the habitats of both animals differ, alligators have less resistance to salt so they live in fresh water and crocodiles can be found in fresh as well as salt waters.

The result of these different living environments can easily be seen in their appearance and skins obviously.

Alligator skin has more symmetrical and longer scales with a smoother feel compared to crocodile skin. The scales are larger in the middle and keep getting smaller towards the side.

However, crocodile skin has less symmetrical, square-shaped scales as compared to alligators. Crocodile leather has a more complex and fine-grained texture.

Finish

Other than texture, the color and surface finish of both alligator leather and crocodile leather differ.

Although, modern leathers can be painted to any desired color but both of these skins often come in slightly different shades.

Alligator leather usually displaces slightly lighter colors like dark brown and tan. While real crocodile skin consists of deeper shades like deep classic brown or black.

The color of alligator and crocodile skins can also change with usage due to the patina and that too will be different.

Availability

Alligator skins are comparatively easier to source than crocodile skin, especially Nile or freshwater crocodile skin due to the limited geographical distribution and various regulations.

This is one of the major reasons that alligator leather products can easily be found in markets like America and parts of Asia but real crocodile skin is much difficult to come by.

Price

Alligator leather is very costlier than many other leathers but it is more affordable as compared to crocodile leather. Crocodile leather due to its exclusivity and texture has always commanded high demand in the market which comes with a hefty price tag.

Crocodile leather is one of the most expensive exotic leathers around the world.

Uses

Both alligator leather and crocodile leather are used to make various luxury fashion accessories and clothing.

Alligator and crocodile leather is famous for its wallets, shoes, watch straps, luxury handbags, and many more.

When it comes to clothing both Gator and Croco leather are known for jackets, caps, and pants.

Conclusion

I hope you like our article on Alligator and Crocodile leather. For more information on leather products, you can check our other articles or you can contact us. LeatherBlues is known as one of the best stores for real leather products. Explore our amazing collection of leather garments and services.

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