C.F. Stead Dark Burgundy Kudu

Dark Burgundy presents as a deep red-brown shade with burgundy undertones that create a rich, complex coloration. The color works in conjunction with the wax finish to highlight the extensive natural markings present in each hide, with the burgundy tone providing contrast that makes scars and scratches particularly visible across the leather surface. The deep coloration maintains the wild and rugged aesthetic characteristic of kudu leather while offering a distinctive burgundy palette that differs from traditional brown shades.

The color exhibits less uniformity than more refined leathers, with natural variations in tone distribution reflecting the preservation of all natural markings from the source hide. The burgundy shade develops depth through the wax treatment, which accentuates grain variations and creates pull-up effects that temporarily lighten the color when the leather is flexed or bent.

The leather is produced by Charles F. Stead using wild kudu antelope hides from Southern Africa, following the same processes applied to all Waxed Kudu variations. The hides undergo the Janus tannage method that brings out the naturally soft character of kudu while creating soft suede on the reverse side. Following tannage, full wax impregnation is applied to the grain surface, with the Dark Burgundy color achieved through the dyeing process.

The tanning and finishing emphasize rather than minimize the extensive natural markings present in kudu hides. Scratches from thorny vegetation, scars from encounters with other animals, and natural grain variations are preserved and accentuated by both the burgundy coloration and the wax treatment. This approach creates leather with heavily scarred appearance that reflects the animal's life in wilderness environments.

Grant Stone developed Dark Burgundy Kudu exclusively for their footwear production, making it unavailable to other manufacturers. The company has utilized this leather in multiple boot styles including the Brass Boot built on the Floyd last, the Diesel Boot on the Leo last, and Field Boot construction. All applications employ Goodyear-welt construction methods that suit the leather's thickness and structural properties.

The heavily scarred character and wild aesthetic of Dark Burgundy Kudu align with Grant Stone's approach to heritage footwear where natural imperfections are valued as distinctive features. The burgundy color provides a rich alternative to traditional brown shades while maintaining the rugged appearance derived from the preservation of all natural markings in the hide.

The leather develops patina characteristics consistent with other Waxed Kudu variations, with the Dark Burgundy color evolving through exposure to wear and environmental factors. The wax coating responds to use by redistributing across the surface, creating areas of varied color depth and intensity. The already heavily scarred appearance becomes more pronounced over time as the wax finish develops additional character through handling.

The burgundy tone deepens in areas of frequent contact while potentially showing lighter tones in flex points due to the pull-up effect. High-wear areas develop distinct color characteristics compared to less-stressed sections, with the natural scars and markings becoming more prominent through the aging process. The wild and rugged aesthetic intensifies with wear rather than becoming more refined, creating increasing individual character in each hide.

Dark Burgundy Kudu is used in Grant Stone's heritage boot construction where the combination of soft temper, strong fiber structure, and heavily scarred appearance creates distinctive aesthetic appeal. The leather's immediate comfort makes it suitable for boots intended for regular wear, while the burgundy color provides versatility in styling contexts where rich, dark tones are desired.

The wild aesthetic and less uniform appearance differentiate boots constructed from Dark Burgundy Kudu from those using more refined leathers. The visible scars and scratches are presented as desirable characteristics that reflect the authentic wild origin of the material, appealing to heritage footwear enthusiasts who value natural imperfections and individual character over uniform appearance.