Ostrich Leather: The Exotic With the Famous Quill Pattern
Ostrich is one of the most recognisable exotic leathers. The raised bumps across its surface, where feathers once grew, give it a look like no other leather.
Ostrich at a glance
| Comes from | Farmed ostriches |
|---|---|
| Feel | Soft and supple with raised quill bumps |
| Weight | Light to medium |
| Durability | ●●●●● |
| Break-in | Short |
| Best for | Handbags, boots, wallets, belts |
| At White Buraq | Not currently offered |
What is ostrich leather?
Ostrich leather comes from farmed ostriches, a large share of them raised in South Africa, where the birds are also farmed for meat and feathers. The most valued part is the "crown" on the bird's back, where the quill follicles are concentrated. Leather with that full pattern is called full-quill; pieces from other areas are smoother. Ostrich leg skin, with its scale pattern, is also used.
How ostrich leather looks and feels
It is soft and flexible, with a natural sheen and a pattern of round, raised quill marks. It feels lighter and more supple than you might expect from an exotic.
Pros and cons
- Pros: distinctive look, soft and flexible, very durable for a fine leather, resists cracking.
- Cons: expensive; small usable areas; the bold pattern is a strong style statement.
What ostrich leather is best for
Handbags, cowboy boots, wallets, belts and watch straps. It is used for jackets too, though full-quill garments are rare and costly.
How to care for ostrich leather
Wipe with a soft dry cloth, use a conditioner made for exotic leathers, and keep it away from heat and direct sun. Store bags stuffed so they hold their shape.
Ostrich vs other exotics
Ostrich is softer and more flexible than crocodile or alligator, and less delicate than python, whose scales can lift.
Ostrich at White Buraq
We don't make products in ostrich. For exotic jackets, see our python and crocodile and alligator collections.
How ostrich leather ages
Ostrich is one of the better-ageing exotic leathers. It's naturally rich in oils, so it stays supple and resists cracking with only basic care. Over time it softens further and takes on a gentle sheen where it's handled. The quill bumps keep their shape, though on bags and boots they can flatten slightly at points that rub constantly.
Light colours can darken a little with handling and conditioning, so test any product on a hidden spot first. Keep ostrich away from heat and long spells in direct sun, which dry it out and can fade the colour.
Full-quill, half-quill and smooth ostrich
- Full-quill: from the crown of the back, with the densest pattern of raised bumps. It's the most recognisable and most expensive.
- Half-quill or partial-quill: from the edges of the crown, with fewer, more scattered bumps.
- Smooth ostrich: from areas with no quills. It still has ostrich's soft feel but looks closer to a fine smooth leather.
- Ostrich leg: a different look entirely, with overlapping scales a little like reptile skin.
What to check when buying ostrich goods
- Real or embossed: real full-quill bumps are slightly irregular in size and spacing, with a tiny hole or point at the centre of many of them. A perfectly regular pattern can mean an embossed cowhide.
- Where the quills are: on a quality bag, the full-quill area is usually placed on the most visible panel.
- Import rules: rules on exotic skins vary by country and state, so check what applies to you before ordering from abroad.
Storing ostrich goods
Store ostrich bags stuffed with acid-free paper so they keep their shape, and keep them in a breathable dust bag rather than plastic. Boots are best kept with shoe trees. Keep everything away from radiators, damp cupboards and direct sunlight. If an ostrich piece gets wet, blot it gently, let it dry at room temperature and then apply a little exotic leather conditioner once it's fully dry. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of quill leather, which can press the bumps flat over time.
Exotic jackets from our workshop
We don't currently list ostrich products. If you'd like to ask about a custom piece, contact us and we'll tell you honestly what is possible. For exotic jackets we make today, see our exotic leather jackets collection, or compare the main options in python vs crocodile leather jackets.
Our genuine exotic jackets are made to order by hand in our family workshop in Sialkot, Pakistan, in 3–4 weeks, then shipping takes about 1 week. They're sourced with CITES documentation and are final sale. Shipping is free within the US with duties included.
Shop the look
Men's Black Crocodile Leather Jacket
Men's Red Alligator Belly Leather Jacket
Men's Black Python Leather Jacket
Frequently asked questions
What is full-quill ostrich?
Leather cut from the crown of the ostrich's back, where the raised quill marks are most concentrated.
Is ostrich leather durable?
Yes. It is one of the most durable exotic leathers and resists cracking with basic care.
Is ostrich leather expensive?
Yes. Each bird gives a small area of prized full-quill leather, which makes it costly.
How do I tell real ostrich from embossed?
Real quill bumps vary in size and spacing and many have a small point at the centre. Embossed patterns are flatter and more regular.
Does ostrich leather crack?
Rarely. Its natural oils keep it supple. Keep it away from heat and condition it occasionally with an exotic leather product.
Related leather types
- Python: Python leather has a striking scale pattern and a soft, flexible feel.
- Crocodile: Crocodile leather is one of the most prized leathers in the world.
- Alligator: Alligator leather is known for its smooth, even belly tiles and rich sheen.
- Stingray: Stingray leather, also called shagreen or galuchat, has a beaded surface that is incredibly hard-wearing.
Explore every leather in our leather types guide, see our leather care guide, or contact us for help choosing a jacket.