C.F. Stead Polo Brown Classic Oiled Shoulder

Polo Brown Classic Oiled Shoulder is produced with a thickness of 1.8-2.0mm and features chrome tannage. The leather is cut from the shoulder section of cowhide, with average skin sizes ranging from 10 to 12 square feet. The fully-aniline tannage is combined with a waxed finish that creates a semi-bright surface while preserving the natural grain and characteristics of the leather.

The leather exhibits a mellow full grain tannage with a casual appearance and classic pull-up effect. The fully-aniline, waxed finish retains the natural appearance and characteristics of the grain, creating a semi-bright surface that showcases the leather's natural features. The leather has a medium handle and is characterized as pull-up leather, meaning it develops lighter areas when flexed or stretched.

Charles F. Stead produces Polo Brown Classic Oiled Shoulder at their facility in Leeds, England, where the company has operated since 1890. The tannery sources shoulder sections of steer hides, selecting them for their tight and pliable grain structure. The hides undergo chrome tanning processes before receiving aniline dyeing in the polo brown shade, which penetrates the leather without obscuring natural markings. The waxing process follows the dyeing stage, applying protective wax that enhances durability while allowing the deep pull-up effect characteristic of this leather type.

Polo Brown Classic Oiled Shoulder is suitable for bespoke and casual footwear applications, as well as for accessories including bags and wallets. The leather's properties make it appropriate for various leather goods where durability and character development are desired.

Several heritage footwear manufacturers utilize Polo Brown Classic Oiled Shoulder in their production. Viberg offers the leather on their Country Boot model, featuring the construction methods characteristic of the Canadian bootmaker. Meermin produces a crossboard boot utilizing CF Stead's Oiled Shoulder in the Polo shade, constructed with Flex Goodyear welting on the NEGON last with horsehide vamp lining and a fully unlined shaft, priced at $280. Jakkrabbits Bootmaker features the leather on their Ivories Boots, handcrafted with CF Stead leather and priced at $490.

Polo Brown Classic Oiled Shoulder develops patina through wear as the oils and waxes redistribute within the leather, creating areas of lighter and darker tones that reflect the boot's use patterns. The aging process occurs naturally without requiring extensive maintenance, though regular care extends the leather's lifespan. Cleaning with a damp cloth removes surface dirt without requiring strong soaps that would strip the natural oils. The leather's oil-tanned nature means it requires less frequent conditioning than dry-tanned leathers.

Conditioning applications should use wax-based products that complement the leather's existing finish rather than oil-based conditioners that may oversaturate the hide. A thin layer applied periodically maintains flexibility while enhancing the aging process. Cream-based polish provides nourishment while wax polish adds protection and shine, with buffing creating the leather's characteristic deep patina. The waxed finish means the leather handles moisture exposure better than unprotected leathers, though proper drying after wet conditions prevents long-term damage.