C.F. Stead Military Green Waxed Kudu

Military Green Waxed 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 military green dye applied during the finishing stages to achieve the distinctive olive-green tone. 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 Military Green variation combines the inherent properties of kudu leather with a subdued olive-green color tone that references military and outdoor equipment aesthetics. 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 lighter olive tones beneath the waxed surface.

Waxed kudu in the Military Green 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 olive-green tones developing depth and variation over time. High-wear areas show accelerated color change, creating subtle tonal variations that enhance the rugged 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 military green color maintains its subdued appearance through conditioning, with treated areas showing enhanced water resistance and subtle color enrichment.

Military Green Waxed Kudu has been used by heritage footwear manufacturers for boots where outdoor performance and distinctive aesthetics are desired. The leather's combination of weather resistance, durability, and military-inspired coloring makes it suitable for service boots, work boots, and field boots. The natural character of kudu leather complements the tactical aesthetic suggested by the military green color, creating footwear with both functional and visual appeal.

The availability of Military Green through Charles F. Stead allows multiple manufacturers to incorporate the color into their product lines, though seasonal availability may vary based on hide supply and production schedules.

Military Green is one of several green-toned options in C.F. Stead's waxed kudu line. Other colors in the range include Forest, Seaweed, Nighthawk, and various brown and tan shades. The Military Green variation features olive-toned green coloring that appears more subdued and tactical compared to brighter forest greens, with the color showing subtle variation depending on wax saturation and natural hide characteristics. The color integrates natural marks and scars less prominently than lighter shades while maintaining the textural variation characteristic of kudu leather.