Cowboy Clinic

How Ostrich Skin Boots Launched A New Fashion

Ostrich skin boots, along with various products ranging from handbags to coats, have become extremely popular in the last decade. Ostrich leather is one of the most unique skins in the world in appearance. There is not another material that even comes close. What makes the skin so unique is its raised bumps, which flow towards the center of the flightless birds hide. The part of the ostrich with the bumps is known as the crown. In laymen’s terms, it’s the part of the bird’s neck that meets the body. The bumps are a result from where the feathers once were. Surprisingly the skin is extremely smooth on each side of the crown. Only one-third of the bird’s skin actually consists of quill bumps.

Following the number one rule of supply and demand, and the crown being the most popular part of the bird as well as the smallest, is the best seller. Products are made from this area of ostrich, making it extremely expensive. Another factor that makes products made from this area of the bird so pricey is because its skin is considered to be one of the most durable commercial leathers.

The fashion industry has hands down driven the demand for ostrich products for many years. Out of all the luxury fashion items made from ostrich - ostrich skin boots were by far the most common use for the birds skin. The second most popular accessory made from ostrich is belts. Boot makers come to realize that most individuals that bought a pair of boots often wanted a belt to match. Once boot makers realized this trend it only stood to reason that they began manufacturing belts as well. It was not long before other accessories began to follow.

With the popularity of this leather, it is easy to see why many owners of recognizable name brands such as Prada, Bottega Veneta and Gucci quickly jumped on the bandwagon. Although most of these products are not inexpensive, men and woman around the world seek them because of their beauty and prestige.

The automotive industry also joined the crowd and began using the leather. Currently you can have car seats, dashboards, and even motorcycle seats made from ostrich skin. Most aftermarket companies will custom cover your seats for a fee. Some manufactures of luxury cars will offer ostrich leather seats upon request. Although this practice is not that popular in the United States, it is common in European countries.

It was not long before sporting good companies threw their hat in the ring. As of 2010, a popular Mexican soccer name brand Pirma will be releasing ostrich skin boots.

Looking back at the history of the ostrich, one would have to be amazed. The bird has been used from everything from a meal to ostrich skin boots. It was the boots that really ignited the popularity of the bird as a footwear fashion statement. One could only wonder where the ostrich will run to next... Who knows we may even see ostrich covered coaches, chairs, and maybe even home fixtures.