Horween Moc Latigo

Moc Latigo exemplifies the historical relationship between Horween's leather production and traditional footwear applications, particularly through the company's extensive collaboration with G.H. Bass during the 1970s for moccasin and sandal production. The leather maintains Horween's standard combination tanning process while providing the natural, earthy appearance associated with traditional moccasin leather.

The production of Moc Latigo follows Horween's established combination tanning methodology. The process begins with chrome tanning, where hides are treated with chromium sulfate and chromium salts to provide foundational strength and durability characteristics essential for demanding footwear applications.

Following the chrome tanning phase, the leather undergoes a complete vegetable re-tanning process. This vegetable treatment increases firmness and durability while enabling the development of patina characteristics over time. The combination of chrome and vegetable tanning methods creates leather with excellent molding properties suitable for traditional moccasin construction techniques.

The final manufacturing stage involves the introduction of various oils and waxes specific to Horween's proprietary formulations. These treatments increase the leather's durability while providing the flexibility characteristics required for comfortable footwear applications. The oil and wax treatments also contribute to the leather's water resistance and aging properties.

Moc Latigo displays a natural, light brown coloration that evokes the traditional appearance of moccasin leather used in Native American footwear construction. This coloration represents one of the lighter options in the Latigo range, providing an earthy, natural tone that complements heritage footwear applications.

The color characteristics result from controlled finishing processes that allow the natural grain pattern and surface texture to remain visible. The moc coloration maintains consistency while preserving the natural variations inherent in high-quality leather production. Unlike synthetic alternatives, the natural coloring develops enhanced character through use and exposure to environmental factors.

The leather demonstrates excellent aging properties, developing distinctive patina over time that makes each piece unique and authentic. This patina development reflects the traditional qualities valued in historical moccasin leather, where individual pieces gained character through extended use.

Moc Latigo exhibits moderate flexibility positioning it between chrome-tanned and vegetable-tanned leathers in terms of working characteristics. The combination tanning provides less rigidity than full vegetable-tanned materials while offering more structure than pure chrome-tanned leather, making it suitable for both traditional and contemporary footwear applications.

The leather demonstrates exceptional resistance to humidity and moisture due to the oil and wax treatments integrated during manufacturing. This water resistance makes Moc Latigo particularly suitable for outdoor applications and footwear designed for variable weather conditions.

While initially somewhat stiff at the time of purchase, Moc Latigo softens over time, improving comfort for footwear applications. This break-in characteristic allows the leather to adapt to the wearer's foot while maintaining structural integrity and support. The leather's strength and durability ensure long-term performance in demanding applications.

Moc Latigo's heritage directly connects to Horween Leather Company's significant role in American moccasin production. During the 1970s, Latigo leather represented Horween's highest production volume product, with G.H. Bass purchasing large quantities for use in their sandals and moccasins.

This historical collaboration established Latigo leather as a standard material for quality American-made footwear, particularly in styles that emphasized comfort and traditional construction methods. The partnership demonstrated the leather's suitability for both casual and outdoor footwear applications.

Traditional moccasin construction has historically utilized heavy Latigo leather, approximately one-quarter inch thick, for sole applications due to its toughness and long-wearing properties. This application showcases the leather's durability characteristics while maintaining the flexibility required for comfortable foot movement.

In modern footwear production, Moc Latigo finds application in heritage-style shoes and boots where traditional appearance and performance characteristics are valued. The leather's combination of durability and comfort makes it suitable for casual footwear, outdoor shoes, and traditional moccasin styles.

The natural coloration and aging properties appeal to consumers seeking authentic leather goods that develop character over time. Boot and shoe manufacturers often select Moc Latigo for products targeting customers who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and materials.

The leather's water resistance and durability make it appropriate for outdoor recreational footwear where performance and traditional aesthetics are both important considerations. The moderate cost relative to other premium leathers, while still representing a significant investment, makes it accessible for mid-range to high-end applications.