C.F. Stead Forest Kudu

Forest Kudu is produced using C.F. Stead's proprietary Janus tannage method, which was designed to maximize the natural mellowness of the hide. The leather undergoes chrome tanning followed by a full wax impregnation applied to the grain side, with the forest green dye applied during the finishing stages. This tanning process intentionally highlights the natural grain blemishes, marks, and scratches that result from the kudu's wild environment in the African bush.

The hides are sourced from seasonal licensed culls conducted as part of government-mandated population management programs in southern Africa. Each hide averages 13 to 15 square feet, with individual pieces ranging from 10 to 22 square feet depending on the animal. The leather maintains a thickness of 1.6 to 2.2 millimeters (4.5 to 5.5 ounces), providing a balance between flexibility and durability.

The Forest variation combines the inherent properties of kudu leather with a medium-depth green color tone that evokes woodland environments. The leather retains all natural blemishes, scars, and grain variations from the wild antelope, with each hide displaying unique markings. The waxed finish creates a natural sheen that highlights these characteristics while providing protection against moisture.

The leather is thick yet extremely soft, maintaining the inherent suppleness characteristic of kudu hides. The grain side is intended for use in footwear construction, while the reverse side features a soft suede texture. The wax impregnation creates pull-up characteristics, where the leather shows temporary lighter areas when flexed or stretched, revealing the lighter green tones beneath the waxed surface.

Waxed kudu in the Forest color develops patina moderately quickly compared to other leather types. The high oil and wax content creates color contrast effects as the leather ages, with the green tones developing depth and variation over time. High-wear areas show accelerated color change, creating subtle two-tone effects that enhance the natural character of the leather. The leather becomes more comfortable with extended wear, conforming to the shape of the foot while maintaining its structural integrity.

To maintain the waxed finish, periodic conditioning prevents the leather from drying out. Recommended care products include Dubbin Wax or Renovateur, applied sparingly to nourish and waterproof the leather. The leather should be cleaned with a dry or slightly damp cloth before applying conditioner, allowing the material to absorb the treatment fully. The forest color responds well to conditioning, with treated areas showing enhanced depth and subtle color variation.

Grant Stone developed Forest Kudu as an exclusive colorway for their heritage footwear collection. The leather has been incorporated into multiple styles including service boots and plain toe derby shoes, where the distinctive green color provides an alternative to traditional brown and black leather options. The leather's combination of durability and unique aesthetic has made it suitable for heritage footwear construction, where the natural character of the material contributes to the visual appeal of the finished product.

The exclusivity of this colorway to Grant Stone reflects the brand's collaboration with Charles F. Stead to develop custom leather options for their product line. This partnership allows Grant Stone to offer distinctive colorways not available through other footwear manufacturers.

Forest Kudu represents one of several green-toned options in C.F. Stead's waxed kudu line. Other colors in the range include Military Green, Nighthawk, Seaweed, and various brown and tan shades. The Forest variation features medium-depth green tones that fall between lighter olive shades and deeper forest greens, with the color showing variation depending on wax saturation and wear patterns. The availability of this specific color is limited to Grant Stone's product offerings, while other green variations may be available to different manufacturers or through general distribution channels.