Kangaroo Leather: Remarkably Strong for Its Weight
Kangaroo leather is a specialist material. It is thin and light, yet very strong, which makes it valuable where every gram counts.
Kangaroo at a glance
| Comes from | Kangaroos (Australia) |
|---|---|
| Feel | Thin, supple and smooth |
| Weight | Very light |
| Durability | ●●●●● |
| Break-in | Short |
| Best for | Football boots, racing suits, whips, gloves |
| At White Buraq | Not currently offered |
What is kangaroo leather?
Kangaroo leather comes from Australia, where kangaroos are harvested under government-managed programmes. The skin's fibres run largely parallel to the surface and are densely packed, so the leather keeps a lot of strength even when it is shaved very thin.
How kangaroo leather looks and feels
It is smooth and supple with a fine grain, and it feels noticeably lighter than cowhide of similar strength. It moulds closely to the shape of a foot or hand.
Pros and cons
- Pros: excellent strength for its weight, flexible, thin, comfortable.
- Cons: limited supply, higher price, and sales are restricted or controversial in some places.
What kangaroo leather is best for
Football boots, motorcycle racing suits, braided whips, bootlaces, gloves and some hats.
How to care for kangaroo leather
Clean with a soft cloth and condition regularly, as thin leather can dry out faster. Let it dry naturally after rain or sweat.
Kangaroo vs cowhide
Cowhide is thicker and more widely available; kangaroo is lighter and stronger for its thickness.
Kangaroo leather at White Buraq
We don't make products in kangaroo leather. If you want strength and character, see our goatskin and horsehide guides.
Frequently asked questions
Is kangaroo leather stronger than cowhide?
For its thickness, yes. It keeps a lot of strength even when very thin, which is why it's used in lightweight performance gear.
Why is kangaroo leather used in football boots?
It is thin, light, strong and moulds to the foot, giving a close feel for the ball.
Is kangaroo leather legal everywhere?
No. Sale is restricted in some places, so check local rules before buying.
Related leather types
- Goatskin: Goatskin is light yet surprisingly strong, with a natural pebbled grain.
- Deerskin: Deerskin is one of the softest and most flexible leathers.
- Cowhide: Cowhide is the world's most-used leather: tough, dependable and full of character.
- Stingray: Stingray leather, also called shagreen or galuchat, has a beaded surface that is incredibly hard-wearing.
Explore all 30 leathers in our leather types guide, see our leather care guide, or contact us for help choosing a jacket.