Full Grain vs. Top Grain Leather and a Recommendation

[themush1326]

Is there a difference between full grain and top grain leather?
I wasn't able to get an understanding from the post on leather, I did find the grading portion useful and I get that part.

I am looking for a leather recliner in club chair type style, but with a back high enough so my head doesn't reach over the top(5'5" tall)
Budget < 2K delivered

thanks

themush

[aaron]

Split leather is when the take a hide and slice it in half. The upper piece of the hide becomes Top Grain leather and is used on upholstery and other fine leather products, the lower section is called "The Split" and becomes suede, industrial, or shoe leather. Its more fragile and doesn't usually finish well.

It's my understanding that a "full grain" leather would not be corrected, while a "top grain" leather is sanded or buffed to remove imperfections and create a more uniform finish.