10 Things You Should Know About Exotic Skin Shoes

Exotic animal skin footwear completes any ensemble by injecting class, sophistication, and personal style. 

The exquisite touches that make up each pair of exotic leather shoes will really set you apart from the crowd. Not only it will level up (even transform) your outfit with its elegance, but will also give you that boost of confidence that you need.  

As they are meticulously made by hand and intricately crafted from premium animal skins, neither comfort nor quality is compromised. 

These shoes, made with the highest quality animal skins, are unique and charismatic; to turn heads and start a conversation is what they were made for. 

But before reaching for your credit card, you’ll want to take a bit of time doing the research before purchasing your exotic leather shoes.  

There are so many things to consider when purchasing such a high-end product, and here are some things you need to know!

1. Exotic Is Not as Intimidating as You Think 

Some people feel intimidated by exotic leather, as it often implies that the skin is sourced out from wild and undomesticated animals. However, exotic skin really just means any leather that is not made out of cowhide.  

Although when we hear the term “exotic leather” we automatically think of alligator, crocodile, or snakeskin, the spectrum of exotics is much larger than that. Even the skin derived from sheep, pigs, and chicken legs may sometimes be called exotic.  

2. Reptile Skin Probably Is the Most Popular Exotic Leather 

Crocodiles, alligators, and other reptiles are usually the animals associated with the term exotic, thus making it a popular choice. 

For example, the American alligator is considered to be a classic exotic leather staple in the fashion industry. 

However, from many varieties of reptiles, only a few species can be farmed for their skins. As a result, reptile skin is relatively expensive as it’s the only source of income for the breeders.  

3. Difference Between Crocodile and Alligator 

Many tend to interchange the two because, at first look, they look almost identical. But observing closer, there are many physical and behavioral differences between the two– including their scales. 

Their skins may have a similar color, but unlike the alligator, the crocodile skin is more uniform. Meaning, regardless of where you look, the pattern of the scales look similar to each other. 

During the tanning process of crocodile skin, hair follicles are removed. Afterward, a small dot in the center of each scale can be noticed, called pores.  

On the other hand, alligator skin tends to be more irregular with minor scars that look like uneven strokes at the base of the scales. 

The umbilical scar, an elongated shape between the scales of the belly, differentiates the alligator from a crocodile. Oftentimes, this look is reproduced in the print to give a high-end feel to the leather. 

4. Skins From Fishes and Mammals can Also be Used 

There are so many skins and leathers in the animal kingdom that are often overlooked, especially those from mammals, birds, and fishes. 

Skins from ostrich, horses, kangaroos, and reindeer are as valuable as reptile skin.  

Genuine elephant leather, for example, is a rare find. In most cases, products advertised as such are just cowhided with elephant leather effect embossed into it. 

5. Sea Skins Do Exist 

The unique fiber structure of skins derived from fish and other water-dwelling species makes it far stronger than conventional leather. 

Although it can be the most challenging exotic leather to use and process, it often presents distinctive scale patterns, resulting in a wide selection of finishes. 

Some of the common sea creatures used for exotic leather include salmon, shark, stingray, and common eel. 

6. The Quality of Leather Depends on the Origin of the Animal 

Aside from the species or which animal class your exotic leather came from, the origin of the animal may be something you want to consider when choosing your leather. 

For example, saltwater crocodiles, freshwater crocodiles, and caiman crocodiles have differences in their skins despite belonging to the same family.  

By paying close attention, you can determine if the leather comes from a specific region or country through its patterns and how it feels.  

 7.  It Gets More Comfortable Over Time 

Not only exotic leather looks great, but it also feels great. Over time, leather shoes form to your feet, softening after several uses as it learns how to provide you maximum comfort. 

Since they are usually handmade, the structure and soles of shoes are given the attention it needs, so that comfort will not be sacrificed for aesthetics. 

8. They are One-of-a-Kind 

With the long list of exotic leathers to choose from, every pair of exotic animal skin shoes are unique. 

Each skin features its individual characteristics, and the patterns create a look with intricate details that one cannot get any other way. 

Just like how every person is different, the one-of-a-kind design created by nature on the animal skins makes every pair special from the others.  

9. They are Not Just for Formal Events 

Gone are the days that exotic leather shoes are only for formal events; there is now a multitude of options to wear them. 

As exotic animal skin shoes come in a variety of styles– from loafers and oxfords to sneakers and sandals– there are more ways to wear and style them than you can think of.  

Whether you’re off to a special meeting, out for a date, or just up for a stroll in the town, there is a perfect pair of exotic leather shoes for you. 

10. These are investment pieces 

Even if exotic animal skin footwear costs more than you usually pay, consider it as an investment. The comfort and sophisticated style that come with its high quality are surely worth every penny. 

Exotic leather shoes are timeless must-haves in every wardrobe– not like just another mass-produced shoe, you can easily dispose of. 

As long as they are kept in good condition, these shoes will be highly sought after, making them resellable at the same retail price. 

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