Pull-Up Leather: Waxed and Oiled Leather That Lightens as It Bends
Bend a piece of pull-up leather and you'll see the colour lighten along the fold. That's the "pull-up" effect, and it's why these leathers age with so much character.
Pull-up (waxed & oiled) at a glance
| Comes from | Usually cowhide or buffalo |
|---|---|
| Feel | Waxy or oily, rich and supple |
| Weight | Medium to heavy |
| Durability | ●●●●● |
| Break-in | A few weeks |
| Best for | Cafe racers, moto and work jackets, boots, bags |
| At White Buraq | Yes, see our waxed cafe racers |
What is pull-up leather?
Pull-up leather is treated with generous amounts of oils and waxes during or after tanning. When the leather is stretched or folded, the oils and waxes shift, and the colour lightens temporarily in that spot. Two common versions are waxed leather, with a waxy surface, and oiled leather, which feels more supple. Crazy Horse is a popular type of heavily waxed pull-up leather.
How pull-up leather looks and feels
It has a deep, rich colour with a slightly waxy or oily touch. Light scratches often show as paler lines at first, then fade or buff out as the oils move back. Over time, creases, edges and seams lighten to give a two-tone, worn-in look.
Pros and cons
- Pros: ages quickly and beautifully, minor scuffs rub out, good water resistance for a leather, rich colour.
- Cons: shows marks quickly (which some people love); can leave a slight waxy bloom; not for a pristine, uniform look.
What pull-up leather is best for
Cafe racers, moto jackets, work jackets, boots and bags.
How to care for pull-up leather
Rub light scratches with your fingertips or a soft cloth; the warmth helps the waxes blend back. If a white bloom appears, buff it off. When the leather looks dry or pale, apply a wax or oil-based conditioner, then buff. Let it dry naturally if it gets wet. See our leather care guide.
Pull-up vs distressed leather
Pull-up leather ages on its own as you wear it. Distressed leather is given a worn look at the tannery or workshop, so it looks vintage from day one.
Waxed leather at White Buraq
We make waxed styles such as our black waxed cowhide moto jacket, unlined waxed cowhide cafe racer and waxed buffalo western jacket.
Frequently asked questions
What does pull-up mean in leather?
The colour lightens where the leather is bent or stretched, because oils and waxes in it shift.
Can you fix scratches on waxed leather?
Light scratches can usually be rubbed out with a fingertip or soft cloth. Deeper ones soften with a wax conditioner.
Is waxed leather waterproof?
It resists light rain better than most leathers, but it isn't waterproof.
Related leather types
- Distressed: Distressed leather is finished to look worn-in and vintage from the start.
- Nubuck: Nubuck has a fine, velvety surface like suede, but it's made from the tougher outer grain.
- Cowhide: Cowhide is the world's most-used leather: tough, dependable and full of character.
- Buffalo: Buffalo leather has a bold, pebbled grain and serious strength.
Explore all 30 leathers in our leather types guide, see our leather care guide, or contact us for help choosing a jacket.