Tochigi Oil Vachetta #2 Medium Brown

The medium brown color provides a darker starting point compared to the natural beige or light brown (Col. 1) variants, while still developing rich patina over time through exposure to sunlight, air, and handling. This color variant maintains all the physical characteristics of Tochigi Oil Vachetta, including the buttery texture, medium temper, and breathability that make the leather suitable for heritage footwear and leather goods.

Tochigi Oil Vachetta #2 Medium Brown undergoes the same manufacturing process as other Oil Vachetta variants, beginning with traditional 160-pit vegetable tanning using mimosa bark tannins over approximately 20 days. The complete tanning process requires a minimum of 90 days before hides are air-dried and tanned once more to ensure thorough tannin penetration.

The medium brown color is applied through aniline dyeing, which penetrates throughout the full thickness of the leather rather than coating only the surface. This dyeing method creates consistent color from grain surface to flesh side, ensuring that cuts, scratches, or wear do not reveal a different color underneath. The aniline dyeing process occurs after vegetable tanning and before the oil treatment phase.

After dyeing, oil or fat is added during the re-tanning phase to create the characteristic suppleness of Oil Vachetta. The leather then receives hand-applied wax finishing, creating the glossy surface that distinguishes Tochigi Oil Vachetta from other oil-treated vegetable-tanned leathers.

Tochigi Oil Vachetta #2 Medium Brown retains all the physical properties of the base Oil Vachetta leather. The material is full-grain leather that preserves the natural grain pattern without correction or surface buffing. Standard thickness specifications range from 2.3mm to 2.5mm, though the leather can be produced in thicknesses from 0.9mm to 6mm depending on application requirements.

The high fat content creates a soft, buttery texture with a medium temper compared to firmer vegetable-tanned leathers. The hand-applied wax finish provides a glossy appearance and smooth feel. The leather exhibits an even-toned surface with lesser-marked grain and an almost silky texture. The full-grain nature makes the leather breathable, with antibacterial properties and resistance to bending and atmospheric agents.

The medium brown color of Col. 2 Oil Vachetta deepens over time through natural patina development. The unfinished surface has no protective coating or sealant, allowing the leather to darken with exposure to sunlight, air, moisture, and skin oils. The aniline dyeing ensures that color remains consistent throughout the leather thickness as patina develops.

Colors gain depth and sheen with age, developing a vintage appearance characteristic of well-aged vegetable-tanned leather. The patina process occurs over a period of months, with pieces older than a few months showing visible color change from their original medium brown shade. The darkening cannot be prevented, as the unfinished surface naturally reacts to environmental factors and handling.

Tochigi Oil Vachetta #2 Medium Brown requires the same care protocols as other Oil Vachetta variants. The leather should be handled with clean, dry hands to prevent staining and premature darkening from skin oils and dirt. Storage in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area is essential, with protection using a dust bag or breathable fabric cover when not in use.

Leather conditioner should be applied every six to 12 months to maintain moisture balance and flexibility. Wax-free leather conditioners are preferred to prevent drying and maintain the leather's natural breathing properties. Protective sprays can shield the leather from staining, liquids, and dye transfer while allowing the leather to breathe.

The leather exhibits sensitivity to moisture and will develop water stains if exposed to wet conditions, though these stains typically blend into the overall patina over time. Mineral oils such as baby oil should be avoided, as these harm the leather structure and aging properties. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight causes natural oils to evaporate from the leather, potentially leading to drying and cracking.

Tochigi Oil Vachetta #2 Medium Brown is used in the same applications as other Oil Vachetta colors, including boots, shoes, bags, belts, and leather goods requiring durable vegetable-tanned material with a softer hand feel. The medium brown color provides a classic aesthetic suitable for heritage footwear and traditional leather goods.

Indonesian bootmaker Jakkrabbits uses Tochigi Oil Vachetta in medium brown for various boot styles, including logger boots, moc toe boots, balmoral boots, derby shoes, and slippers. Construction methods include handwelted Goodyear 270-degree Veldtschoen construction, handwelted Goodyear 360-degree Flat Welt construction, and handwelted Goodyear 360-degree Norwegian Chain-Stitch Welt construction.

Beyond footwear, the medium brown Oil Vachetta appears in watch straps, wallets, and small leather goods where the combination of durability, patina development, and traditional color is valued. The leather's breathability and antibacterial properties make it particularly suitable for items in regular contact with skin.