Black Spruce is an exclusive deep black-green color variant of C.F. Stead Waxy Commander Suede leather produced for Parkhurst. The leather features a suede base with wax impregnation, creating material with enhanced water resistance and distinctive pull-up characteristics.
Produced by Charles F. Stead, a Leeds-based English tannery established in 1904, Black Spruce Waxy Commander Suede represents the tannery's expertise in producing casual suedes with functional wax treatments. The deep black-green colorway offers distinctive aesthetics suitable for heritage footwear applications.
Black Spruce Waxy Commander Suede is produced in standard suede footwear weight ranging from 4 to 5 ounces, corresponding to approximately 1.6 to 2.0mm in thickness. The leather features a napped suede surface with wax treatment applied to the exterior.
The material is processed from specially selected hides tanned to achieve the soft, relaxed character typical of Waxy Commander leathers. Average hide sizes measure between 12 and 15 square feet, with consistent thickness suitable for footwear construction.
The Black Spruce colorway presents a deep black-green tone that complements the textured suede surface. The wax treatment creates depth of color and texture as suede fibers move beneath the surface application. The color provides distinctive character while developing patina characteristics through wear.
The wax finish can be readily burnished to redistribute surface treatment and alter appearance. The material exhibits water-resistant properties while maintaining comfortable feel. High-use areas gradually show wear patterns where the wax redistributes and natural leather characteristics become more prominent.
Parkhurst utilizes Black Spruce Waxy Commander Suede in their boot constructions, particularly in models where exclusive styling and weather resistance complement contemporary design. The deep black-green colorway provides product differentiation within the heritage footwear market.
The leather's characteristics suit refined casual wear environments where weather resistance and patina development enhance the boot's aesthetic and functional appeal over time.
Black Spruce Waxy Commander Suede requires maintenance appropriate to waxed suede construction. Regular brushing with a suede brush maintains the nap structure while preserving the wax coating. The wax can be burnished to redistribute surface treatment and refresh appearance.
The leather ages through natural wear and exposure, with high-flex areas showing the most pronounced changes as wax redistributes. The deep black-green base color provides distinctive foundation for wear pattern development, with natural marks becoming gradually more visible through extended use.
"Waxy Commander Suede". Charles F Stead and Co Ltd. Retrieved October 30, 2025.
"C.F. Stead Waxy Commander Leather". The Tannery Row. Retrieved October 30, 2025.