Seidel Cheaha

Cheaha is used primarily in heritage boot construction, notably by Truman Boot Co. in Eugene, Oregon. The leather's combination tanning process and high oil content make it suitable for boots requiring weather resistance and durability.

Cheaha leather exhibits several distinctive physical properties resulting from its tanning and finishing processes. The leather features impressive pull-up characteristics, where the surface color lightens visibly when stretched or flexed. This pull-up effect stems from the heavy infusion of oils and waxes during production.

The leather presents a particularly waxy hand-feel that distinguishes it from other oil-tanned leathers. The glossy finish combined with this waxy texture creates a tough leather that maintains flexibility. Despite its thickness of approximately 6 ounces, the leather is described as semi-supple rather than stiff.

Cheaha demonstrates moderate weather resistance enhanced through the natural water-repelling properties of its oil and wax content. The leather's patina potential rates at 6 out of 10, indicating it will develop visible wear patterns over time without dramatic color transformation.

Seidel Tanning produces Cheaha leather at their Milwaukee, Wisconsin facility. The tannery has operated for over 75 years as a fourth-generation family business and ranks among America's largest premium leather producers. Seidel specializes in work boots, western boots, and motorcycle leather, continuing production traditions established in the post-World War II era.

The combination tanning process integrates chrome tanning for flexibility with vegetable re-tanning for structure and character. The resulting leather receives heavy applications of oils and waxes, which are infused into the hide to create the characteristic pull-up and waxy finish.

Production occurs on a rotational basis rather than continuous availability, with hides rotationally stocked according to demand. This production method means Cheaha leather appears in periodic releases rather than constant supply.

Cheaha requires preventative maintenance to preserve its oils and prevent drying. Conditioning should be applied occasionally using leather protector or leather cream products appropriate for heavily oiled leathers. The recommended application method involves using a horsehair brush designated solely for conditioner, applying a small amount first to the brush, then gently brushing the conditioner into the leather using swift, intentional movements.

Initial cleaning uses a horsehair brush to remove surface debris, followed by a damp cloth for deeper cleaning when necessary. The waxy finish allows light scratches to be easily brushed out without special treatment.

When Cheaha gets wet, irregular spotting may develop on the surface. This water spotting is remedied through heat application, such as using a blow-dryer held at least 6 inches away from the leather surface. The heat redistributes the oils and waxes to even out the appearance.

Truman Boot Co. uses Cheaha leather in their boot production, building heritage boots by hand in Eugene, Oregon. Boots constructed with Cheaha leather are priced at $460 USD and are available in multiple sizes ranging from 7 through 9 and beyond, with both D (standard) and EE (wide) width options. The leather appears in cap toe construction styles among other boot patterns.

The leather's tough character combined with relatively easy break-in makes it suitable for boot construction intended for extended use. Boots made from Cheaha experience a typical break-in period and respond quickly to regular wear. The leather is considered appropriate for applications requiring durability and moderate weather resistance.