Minnetonka Moccasin uses many leathers such as cowhide and suede leathers in addition to exotic leathers such as moose, deerskin, and sheepskin.  Listed below is a description of these leathers and recommended instructions for their care.

Cowhide Leather:  The most commonly used leather.  The cowhide used in Minnetonka Moccasins is a full grain leather and has been treated with various tanning processes.  Cowhide leather should be protected by using a cream polish to protect the finish.

Suede: The common characteristic of suede is the exposed leather fibers known as the nap. The suede used in Minnetonka Moccasins is expertly tanned with special care taken to sand and buff the surface creating a fine luxurious nap.

Brown or Tan Ruff:  Minnetonka Moccasin pioneered this tanning process where the surface of the leather is impregnated with oils in which the nap of the leather is held down.  The result is a rough distressed looking finish.  Suede should be sprayed with a suede leather protector to help make the suede water and stain resistant.

Moose Hide:  The soft, buttery feel of the moose hide moccasin is why it is Minnetonka’s #1 seller!  Moose hide comes from the arctic regions where they are an important food source.  Any scars or scratches are natural characteristics of the wild moose.  They attest to the genuineness of the leather and enhance its natural beauty.  Minnetonka Moccasin recommends a delicate leather cream which cleans and moisturizes delicate leathers.

Deerskin:  Deerskin is known for it’s softness and provides the utmost in comfort.  Because the animal comes from the wild, any scars or scratches are a natural characteristic of the hide.  A delicate leather cream is recommended to clean and moisturize.

Shearling: Sheepskin is a unique natural product.  The hairs are hollow so that the fur portion of the hide performs two vital functions.  First, it wicks away excess moisture from the skin. Secondly it allows the skin to breathe.  This is why shearling is an ideal product for both summer and winter.  It keeps the skin warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Sheepskin is also referred to as shearling.  The term shearling comes from when the sheep is shorn for its wool. Shearling should be hand washed with a mild detergent and allowed to air dry naturally, out of direct sunlight.

If your moccasins become wet, let them air dry naturally, out of direct sunlight. Do not use heat sources to dry. They will leave your moccasins dry and crisp and unable to be re-stitched or re-soled