Horween Leather Company

Founded by Isadore Horween in 1905, the company initially focused on producing razor strops. With the decline in demand for razor strops due to the advent of safety razors, Horween shifted its focus to other leather products. In 1920, the company relocated to its current facility at 2015 North Elston Avenue in Chicago. During World War II, Horween supplied leather for U.S. Marine Corps footwear. The company has remained family-owned, with leadership passing through generations, including Arnold Horween, Arnold Horween Jr., and Arnold "Skip" Horween III, who became president in 2002. As of 2012, Horween employed approximately 160 people and had annual revenues of around $25 million.

Horween employs various tanning methods, including chrome tanning, vegetable tanning, and combination tanning. The Chromexcel leather, for instance, undergoes a combination tanning process that involves both chrome and vegetable tanning, followed by hot stuffing with oils and waxes. This process imparts a rich pull-up effect and a supple feel to the leather. The production of Genuine Shell Cordovan involves a six-month process that includes vegetable tanning, hot stuffing, and hand polishing. These traditional methods contribute to the durability and distinctive characteristics of Horween leathers.

Horween produces a range of leathers, including Chromexcel, Genuine Shell Cordovan, and Essex. Chromexcel is known for its rich pull-up effect and is used in footwear and accessories. Genuine Shell Cordovan is a dense, durable leather used in high-end shoes and wallets. Essex is a vegetable-tanned leather with a high oil content, suitable for various products. Horween leathers are utilized by manufacturers such as Alden Shoe Company, Allen Edmonds, and Timberland for products including boots, shoes, belts, and wallets.