Horween Leather Company: Only Producer of Genuine Shell Cordovan in North America
Horween Leather Company: Only Producer of Genuine Shell Cordovan in North America
Chicago, Ill.—After nearly 100 years in business, Horween Leather Company, located on Chicago's near north side, has developed a reputation for producing some of the world's finest leather. Using tannages as old as the company itself, Horween is acknowledged as the premier specialist in the art of tanning genuine shell cordovan. As the last producer of this premium leather in North America, Horween's shell cordovan demonstrates the art of tanning at its finest. The beautiful finished product is the result of proven formulas, skilled workers and a great deal of patience.
"Horween Leather is an American process and an American tradition," states fourth generation president Arnold "Skip" Horween, III. "In today's market, where speed and flexibility are at a premium, we strive to give our customers an unparalleled blend of quality, consistency, responsiveness and innovation."
Horween's genuine shell cordovan is still tanned using a six-month-long process and formulas that date back to its founder, Isadore Horween, in the early 1900's.
Horween's Genuine Shell Cordovan
Contrary to popular belief, cordovan is much more than just a color. Shell cordovan is a very special leather that comes from a horse's hindquarters. In this area, lies two oval
pieces of leather sufficient to make just two pairs of shoes. These hides must be slowly tanned, nourished with natural oils, shaved and then polished the old-fashioned way.
By using this artisan-like approach to the tanning and finishing process, Horween Leather achieves the rich, glossy look and feel prized by generations of shoemakers.
"Tanners today are faced with tremendous pressure to produce leather faster and cheaper," states Horween. "We refuse to sacrifice quality in any of our products. We are not the fastest or the cheapest so we must be the best."
"Producing genuine shell cordovan has always been about trained eyes, skilled hands and an unwavering commitment to doing the right thing," continues the tanner's president. "Carrying on the tradition is the goal for all 135 of us who work here making products that carry the Horween name."
Horween Leather is located at 2015 Elston Avenue in Chicago. For more information visit the Horween website at www.horween.com.