What is nappa leather?

Nappa, or napa, leather is a soft, flexible leather usually derived from kid, lamb or sheep skin. Nappa leather is used for personal goods, such as gloves or wallets, and is even used as upholstery in luxury cars. It is considered a breathable leather, and it does not retain moisture.

Nappa leather was developed in 1845 by Emanuel Manasse, while working at a tannery in Napa Valley, Calif. Tanneries convert skins or hides into leather for manufacturing clothing items or other goods. Nappa leather is considered a full grain leather, which means it is not processed with chemicals and the surface texture is preserved.