C.F. Stead Marble Repello Calf Suede

Marble Repello gained recognition through limited edition collaborations with American bootmaker Alden, including the Leffot x Alden Marble Indy Boot released in 2012 and the Ealdwine x Alden "Carrara" Indy Boot. The material features Scotchguard treatment integrated during the tanning process, providing water and stain resistance while maintaining the fine-napped texture characteristic of calf suede.

Marble Repello Calf Suede shares the technical specifications of standard Repello Calf Suede, with material sourced from calfskin of younger animals aged four to six months. The hide is split and aniline dyed to create a velvety effect on both sides of the leather. Charles F. Stead tans the material to provide a full, generous handle with a rich appearance despite the light coloration.

The suede measures 1.2-2.0mm in thickness, with alternative specifications of 3.5-4.5 oz or 1.4-1.8mm depending on the specific production run. Average skin sizes range from 12 to 14 square feet. The material exhibits a tight-napped surface with luxurious appearance and touch. The low fat content in the leather creates tightly woven fibers designed for footwear intended to last 10-15 years.

Scotchguard treatment is fully integrated during the tannage process, providing high resistance to staining that remains effective throughout the life of the product. The marble colorway provides high water and oil resistance while maintaining breathability. The dense, healthy fiber structure results from sourcing calfskin from top European tanneries in France and Germany.

Marble Repello Calf Suede has been used primarily by Alden in exclusive retailer collaborations. The Leffot x Alden Marble Indy Boot, released in March 2012, featured the material on the TruBalance last with plantation crepe soles, retailing for $485. The boot included tonal stitching, a reinforced toecap, waxed laces, and speed hooks.

Alden also produced the material for Très Bien Shop in a similar Indy Boot configuration with crepe and leather soles. The Ealdwine x Alden "Carrara" Indy Boot represented another limited edition application of the material, named explicitly after the Italian marble that inspired the colorway designation.

Beyond the Indy Boot, Alden has utilized Marble Repello in other models including chukka boots. Model 14581 features the material on the Barrie last with plantation crepe outsole and 360-degree pre-stitched reverse welt construction. Model 40571HC uses the material on the TruBalance last with Commando sole, brass eyelets, and the same welt construction method.

The material is classified as suitable for men's dress and casual footwear, with applications extending to bag manufacturing and accessories. The neutral tone makes it appropriate for warm weather wear while the Scotchguard treatment maintains practical functionality in varied conditions.

Marble Repello Calf Suede requires standard suede care protocols with attention to its light coloration. Charles F. Stead recommends using a suede brush with brass bristles, brushing carefully in one direction to maintain the nap. The material should be kept as clean as possible to prevent discoloration of the light surface.

If the suede becomes wet or dirty, it should be allowed to dry naturally before applying any treatment products. Suede restoring spray can be used to enhance finish and color. A suede protector spray is recommended despite the integrated Scotchguard treatment, particularly given the vulnerability of the light color to staining.

The tight fiber structure resists absorbing dirt more effectively than looser suede constructions, making the material easier to clean and maintain than its light color might suggest. Regular brushing prevents dirt accumulation that could darken the marble tone over time. The durability of calf suede construction allows the material to withstand regular cleaning without degradation of the nap.