The phenomenon of leather shoes fading and developing stains on the inside is a common issue encountered by many individuals. Often, when people notice their leather shoes fading, they jump to the conclusion that the leather must be fake or of poor quality. However, the truth is, even high-quality leather is prone to fading, especially in humid or hot environments. And consistent wear without proper maintenance can accelerate the fading process.
Why Genuine Leather Shoes Fade
1.Natural Pores and Color Processing: High-quality leather is derived from the top layer of an animal’s skin and possesses natural pores. The color of leather is achieved through a dip or transfection process. Regardless of the leather’s quality or price, it is prone to fading as a result of its natural characteristics.
2.Environmental Factors: When leather shoes are placed in humid or hot surroundings, they are prone to fading. Moisture and heat working together can make the dye employed in the coloring process seep out, leading to color fading. Moreover, extended exposure to sunlight might speed up the fading phenomenon.
Why Some Cheap Shoes Don't Fade
Use of Fixing Agents:
Shoes available at lower prices in the market might seem to be resistant to color fading. It thanks to the inclusion of fixing agents. In the printing and dyeing sector, fixing agents serve as essential additives that boost the color retention of dyes on textiles. By reacting with dyes to create insoluble colored compounds, these agents improve resistance to washing and perspiration. And that occasionally enhances lightfastness as well. Nonetheless, these chemical agents may not be gentle on the skin.
Understanding why leather shoes fading involves acknowledging the natural characteristics of genuine leather, the processing methods applied. While high-grade leather boasts natural qualities that make it susceptible to fading, cheaper shoes may employ chemical agents to maintain color. It raises concerns about environmental and health implications. It’s essential to embrace fading as a natural part of the leather’s aging process and practice proper maintenance to prolong their aesthetic appeal. In the next article we will introduce how to care for leather shoes to reduce fading.