C.F. Stead Black Unicorn Elk

The leather maintains the distinctive grain characteristics of wild elk while presenting a deep black color that develops character through wear. Heritage boot makers including Viberg, Tricker's, and Parkhurst use Black Unicorn Elk for unlined boots.

Black Unicorn Elk is produced using selected hides of Scandinavian Elk, also known as moose. The leather originates from elk inhabiting the Arctic Circle region. The species belongs to the Cervus genus, a member of the deerskin family.

The Unicorn leather tannage was developed in a Finnish tannery during the 1970s. Full-grain Arctic Circle skins were originally tanned to a crusted state in this now-closed facility. Years later, the crusted skins were rediscovered in an old Finnish tannery storeroom and subsequently dyed and oiled to create the limited range of colors now available.

The black color variant undergoes the same base tanning process as other Unicorn Elk colors. Hand-selected elk hides are aniline-dyed, giving them a subtly sanded grain to achieve a nubuck finish. This sanding reveals the remarkable grain characteristics unique to wild animals.

During the tanning process, the hides are treated with a subtle wax coating that yields a matte finish. The finish of natural waxes retains and enhances the full natural character of the leather. The wax treatment provides an added layer of protection to the robust yet flexible leather while maintaining the material's pull-up qualities.

The tanning method uses chrome tannage, producing a leather with a weight of 4.5-5 oz or 1.8-2 mm thickness. Alternative thickness measurements of 1.6-1.8 mm and 2.0-2.2 mm are recorded across different production batches.

Black Unicorn Elk exhibits a full-bodied, heavy-weight construction with the distinctive grain character inherent to elk leather. The material presents a dense yet incredibly soft texture, remaining comfortable and supple from the first wear.

Each skin bears natural marks from life in the Arctic wilderness, including scars, imperfections, and color variations. These characteristics vary from hide to hide, ensuring no two skins are alike. The natural defects and imperfections showcase the leather's origins from wild habitat.

The black waxed finish provides durability while maintaining the unique look of elk grain. Average skin size measures 16-18 square feet, though some batches yield 12-13 square feet. The leather demonstrates pull-up qualities, showing lighter tones in areas of flexion and wear.

Black Unicorn Elk is ideally suited for unlined boots due to its natural wax finish and soft hand feel. The leather requires no break-in period, providing immediate comfort while offering long-term durability.

Heritage footwear makers incorporate Black Unicorn Elk into high-end boot construction. Tricker's produces the Super Monkey Boot with Black Waxed Unicorn Elk uppers paired with natural leather storm welts and Vibram Morflex Christy soles. Viberg manufactures Service Boots in this leather. Parkhurst Brand offers the Richmond and Allen boot models using Waxed Unicorn in various colors.

The leather's combination of immediate suppleness and robust construction makes it appropriate for lifestyle footwear that sees regular wear. The natural marks and grain characteristics develop additional patina over time, with the waxed finish protecting the material while allowing the black color to show wear patterns.