What is Nappa Leather and How is it Different from Standard Leather Upholstery?

Nappa leather, commonly used to wrap luxury automotive interiors, is known for its quality and buttery feel. Car aficionados praise it for its sleekness and resilience. Soft Nappa leather seats make every mile a little more pleasant as you settle into their rich comfort. But what is Nappa leather?

In this post, we look at how it's made, what makes Nappa leather different from regular leather and imitation/vegan leather, and why it's so popular. However, there are a few things to be aware of before paying extra for this high-quality leather.

CarBuzz obtained the information in this post directly from the manufacturers.

What is Nappa Leather?

Nappa leather is produced from the hides of young animals like lambs, kids (young goats), and calves. These particular skins are favored for their soft texture and delicate grain. Being younger, their hides are generally softer and less prone to signs of aging, allowing the final product to maintain a natural appearance. The term "Nappa" is derived from Napa Valley in California, where Emanuel Manasse pioneered a distinctive tanning process in 1875.

This particular type of leather undergoes chrome tanning, which helps maintain its natural appearance. This method sets Nappa leather apart from other automotive leathers and revolutionized leather craftsmanship. Converting raw hides into an exceptionally soft material involves a complex process that requires meticulous care at every step to retain the unique qualities of the leather.

First, raw hides are selected for processing. However, not all hides make the final cut. Top-quality hides help guarantee the final, finished product features no blemishes and has a defined, smooth texture. On the other hand, hides with too many imperfections, like scarring, would affect the finished appearance. While smaller cuts of these can be patched together to make handbags, ultra-luxury manufacturers like Bentley and Rolls-Royce only use top tier leather to cover vehicle interiors.

Once selected, hides undergo a thorough cleaning and soaking procedure. This initial phase removes dust and debris, preparing the hides for tanning. The tanning method significantly affects the leather’s appearance, hue, and feel. For instance, Nappa leather is processed using chrome tanning, which imparts a luxurious softness and flexibility. Following this, the leather is subjected to various mechanical and chemical treatments that enhance its softness and conditioning, allowing for intricate designs and styles that cannot be achieved with stiffer leathers. At this point, the leather is primed for customization according to client specifications, incorporating dyes and patterns, before a protective layer is applied.

Nappa Leather in Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Despite being a material often touted for its luxury, top-tier nature, Nappa leather can be found in more places than you think. It's used for bags, jackets, and seats—and not just for the rich and famous. While it comes as a standard feature on some prestige and performance cars, many automakers offer it as a purchase option in cars with sophisticated interiors. Its pliability allows it to be used for dashboards and door panels. It can even be used for steering wheels, providing a consistent, lavish atmosphere across the entire vehicle.

Renowned Automobile Manufacturers Providing Nappa Leather Interiors

• Rolls-Royce
• Mercedes-Benz
• Genesis
• Mazda
• Chevrolet

Nappa Leather vs. Standard or Faux Leather Nappa leather is a premium, high-quality leather known for its softness and luxurious feel. It is made from the hide of young animals, typically lamb