What is corn leather and what are the benefits of this next-generation vegan material?

Corn leather, also known as vegan leather or plant-based leather, represents a remarkable stride in sustainable material innovation. It's crafted from a versatile and renewable resource: corn.

The supple corn leather, derived from renewable plant-based sources, exudes the same lavish texture and durability as traditional leather, ensuring a luxurious feel without compromising on ethics. 

Corn leather is soft, sleek, comfortable and breathable offering the perfect balance between sustainability and performance.  Corn leather uses both corn husks and vegetable oils from corn, which tend to be waste products; the non-edible parts of corn are used to produce leather, making this a creative way to salvage and re-use waste. Additionally, the corn used for making the base material is a non-food grade crop, so it doesn't divert food resources. 

The process begins by extracting dextrose, a sugar derived from corn. This dextrose is then fermented to produce a bio-based polymer called polylactic acid (PLA).

The PLA undergoes a transformation into a material that mimics the texture, suppleness, and durability of traditional animal leather. Through a series of processes including spinning, weaving, or coating, the PLA can be formed into sheets that resemble leather. These sheets are then used as the primary material for items like shoes, bags, or clothing.

Corn leather stands out as an eco-conscious alternative for several compelling reasons:

  1. Sustainability: Corn is an annually renewable resource, which means it can be cultivated every year, unlike animal leather, which requires animals to be raised and processed. This reduces the environmental impact associated with resource depletion.

  2. Reduced Environmental Impact: The production of corn leather typically involves fewer harmful chemicals compared to the traditional tanning processes used in animal leather production. Additionally, it generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

  3. Biodegradability: Unlike synthetic materials derived from fossil fuels, corn leather is biodegradable. At the end of its life cycle, it can decompose naturally, minimizing its impact on landfills and the environment.

  4. Cruelty-Free: As a vegan alternative, corn leather does not involve any animal exploitation or cruelty. It provides an ethical choice for consumers who are eliminating and avoiding products derived from animals.

  5. Innovation Potential: Continuous advancements in technology and research have the potential to further improve the production processes of corn leather, making it even more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

The utilization of corn leather in fashion items like our Harlow vegan designer boots, wink, wink, signifies a shift towards more sustainable and ethical practices within the industry. It offers consumers an opportunity to embrace fashion without compromising on their values, promoting a more responsible and conscious approach to luxury and style.

 

About our Harlow Chelsea Boots:

These luxurious, premium vegan designer boots have been ethically hand-made with Corn Leather. Indulge in the epitome of opulence and sustainability with an exquisite pair of our Harlow vegan designer Chelsea boots; imbued with a harmonious blend of sophistication and eco-consciousness, these boots redefine luxury while honoring the environment.

Elevate your fashion statement while making a profound, eco-friendly choice with this luxurious pair that reflects your commitment to both style and the planet.

Every detail of these boots reflects meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design. From the precisely stitched elastic side panels for effortless wear to the plush, cushioned insoles ensuring unparalleled comfort, every step embodies both elegance and sustainability.

Check them out here!

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.