Leather vs. Biothane Dog Gear

When it comes to choosing the best gear for your dog—whether it’s a collar, leash, or harness— leather and Biothane are the top two choices. Both materials have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you depends on your dog’s lifestyle, your personal preferences, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do! Let's get into it ~

Biothane Straps

Leather Dog Gear:

Leather dog gear is made from...you guessed it....leather aka natural animal hides, typically cowhide, and is known for its durability, classic appearance, and long lifespan. It has been a top choice for dog owners for centuries due to its strength and comfort. High-quality leather becomes softer and more supple over time, molding to your dog’s shape for a comfortable fit. The first leash I ever got my dog Basil was leather and it was perfect for about 1 year and I never did any maintenance on it. Then Basil discovered ponds and the leather got sort of gross from her constantly getting it wet. Eventually it got worn down and stinky and it got thrown out... but I did get a good 2 years out of it (again with NO maintenance because I was a lazy college kid).

Pros of Leather Dog Gear:

✅ Durability – High-quality leather can last for years if properly maintained.

✅ Classic Aesthetic – Leather gives off a luxurious and timeless look.

✅ Comfortable Fit – Becomes softer with wear, making it comfortable for dogs.

✅ Strong and Secure – Great for strong dogs, especially larger breeds.

✅ Eco-Friendly – Natural material with no plastic components.

Cons of Leather Dog Gear:

❌ Maintenance Required – Needs regular conditioning to prevent cracking or drying.

❌ Water Sensitivity – Can absorb water, leading to damage or a musty smell.

❌ Price – High-quality leather gear is more expensive than synthetic options.

❌ Heavier Weight – Can be bulkier compared to synthetic materials.

❌ Not Vegan - It's literally dead animal skin. That might matter to you it might not...

Leather Dog Gear is Probably Best For:

• Owners who appreciate traditional, high-end aesthetics.

• Dogs who do not spend a lot of time in water.

• People willing to invest time in maintenance for long-lasting gear.

• People who aren't Vegan

What is Biothane Dog Gear?

Biothane is a synthetic material made from a polyester core coated in PVC or TPU. It was originally developed for horse tack but has gained popularity in the dog gear industry due to its waterproof, odor-resistant, and easy-to-clean properties. The very second leash I ever got Basil was biothane and I fell in love immediately. It never held onto water like my leather leash did and it NEVER smelled. Even when the hardware rusts and wears the biothane itself has always held up. I have never have a biothane leash break or fray.

Pros of Biothane Dog Gear:

✅ 100% Waterproof – Ideal for dogs that love swimming, mud, or rain.

✅ Low Maintenance – Easily wipes clean with soap and water.

✅ Odor-Resistant – Does not absorb smells like leather or fabric.

✅ Flexible & Lightweight – Comfortable for dogs of all sizes.

✅ Affordable – Generally more budget-friendly than high-end leather.

✅ Variety of Colors – Available in many vibrant colors for a fun look.

✅ Vegan :)

Cons of Biothane Dog Gear:

❌ Less Traditional Look – Doesn’t have the classic, high-end leather aesthetic.

❌ No Patina – Unlike leather, it doesn’t age or soften over time.

❌ Not as Breathable – Could be less comfortable in extreme heat compared to leather if you're getting a full body harness. I've never noticed my dog caring or noticing though!

❌ Not Eco-Friendly – It's essentially plastic so it doesn't biodegrade. This is a huge issue for me personally in my soul BUT the pros unfortunately outweigh this con for me. A well made biothane product will save you from buying a bunch of other lesser quality products... which in a way cuts down on the shipping emissions it would take to keep replacing your fraying fabric leashes!

Biothane Dog Gear Is Best For:

• Active dogs that love water, mud, and outdoor adventures!! (So like.... all dogs)

• Owners who prefer low-maintenance gear. (So like.... multi-dog owners who are busy cleaning up after their dogs already as is)

• People who like modern, colorful dog accessories! ...I've never seen dark academia / steampunk dog gear... so I'm going to guess that's got to be really close to everyone too! Either way, biothane does come in neutral colors, and can be made into any aesthetic!)

Which Should You Choose?

• If you love classic aesthetics, appreciate craftsmanship, and don’t mind occasional maintenance, leather is an excellent choice. It’s strong, comfortable, and stylish—perfect for owners who want high-end gear.

• If you want durability without the hassle, Biothane is the way to go. It’s waterproof, odor-resistant, and low-maintenance—ideal for active dogs who love the outdoors.

Both materials have their place in the dog gear world it really comes down to how much you're willing to spend, how much care you’re willing to put into maintaining the gear, and your stance on environmental impact...killing animals for their skin or contributing to microplastics! Unfortunately nothing in this world is without its moral or ethical or environmental price...(*sighs*)

No matter what you choose, investing in a high-quality collar and leash ensures your pup stays safe and comfortable on all your adventures!

Happy Shopping! 🐾