Seidel Ink Cheaha

As a color variant of Seidel Cheaha, Ink Cheaha inherits the base leather's combination tanning process, heavy oil and wax content, and characteristic pull-up properties. The leather measures approximately 6 ounces (2.4 millimeters) in thickness and is classified as semi-supple with a distinctly waxy finish.

Ink Cheaha exhibits the physical properties characteristic of Seidel Cheaha leather combined with its distinctive navy coloration. The leather features impressive pull-up characteristics, where the deep navy surface lightens visibly when stretched or flexed. This pull-up effect results from the heavy infusion of oils and waxes during production, which are signature elements of the Cheaha leather line.

The waxy finish is particularly pronounced in Ink Cheaha, creating a glossy surface texture that distinguishes it from other oil-tanned leathers. Despite its 6-ounce thickness, the leather maintains semi-supple characteristics rather than stiffness, facilitating a relatively easy break-in period. The leather responds quickly to wear, developing use patterns while maintaining its structural integrity.

The deep navy coloration goes well with tan or khaki pants, offering a striking alternative to conventional boot leather colors. Ink Cheaha has a patina potential rating of 6 out of 10, indicating moderate development of wear patterns over time without dramatic color transformation.

Seidel Tanning produces Ink Cheaha at their Milwaukee, Wisconsin facility using the same combination tanning process employed for other Cheaha variants. The tannery integrates chrome tanning for flexibility with vegetable re-tanning for structure, then applies heavy oils and waxes to create the characteristic pull-up and waxy finish. The navy coloration is applied during the finishing stages of production.

The leather is produced on a rotational basis rather than continuous availability. Seidel Tanning maintains periodic production runs of Ink Cheaha according to demand from Truman Boot Co., resulting in periodic releases rather than constant supply.

Ink Cheaha requires the same preventative maintenance as other Cheaha leather variants. The leather should receive occasional conditioning using leather protector or leather cream products appropriate for heavily oiled leathers. Application involves using a designated horsehair brush, applying a small amount of conditioner to the brush, then brushing the product into the leather with intentional movements.

Regular cleaning begins with 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 brushed out without special treatment.

When Ink Cheaha gets wet, irregular spotting may develop on the navy surface due to oil and wax redistribution. This water spotting is remedied through heat application, such as using a blow-dryer held at least 6 inches from the leather surface. The heat redistributes the oils and waxes to restore even coloration.

Truman Boot Co. incorporates Ink Cheaha into their heritage boot construction. The company builds boots by hand in Eugene, Oregon, offering Ink Cheaha in multiple styles including cap toe boots priced at $460 and moc toe boots priced at $390. Boots are available in various sizes with both D (standard) and EE (wide) width options.

The combination of the leather's tough character and relatively easy break-in makes it suitable for boots intended for extended use. The moderate weather resistance provided by the oil and wax content, combined with the semi-supple characteristics, creates functional footwear appropriate for daily wear applications.