Crypton Leather Performance Codes

The performance scale by Cortina Leathers uses widely accepted standards for the most critical leather tests for each important dimension:

• Water repellancy is a measure of how quickly a spill will soak into the leather, how likely it is to stain the leather, and the extent to which a stain can be cleaned.
• Abrasion testing measures how resistant the leather is to scuffing, scratching or finish wear from use. With some leathers, evidence of use is desired and makes the leather more comfortable and beautiful. On others, such as commercial aviation, automobile and office task chairs, a more resistant leather is typically sought.
• The Crocking test is a measure of dye transfer from clothing to the leather, particularly under pressure such as during sitting. For example, wet jeans are the most likely to transfer their blue dye.
• Finish adhesion measures how resistant the finish of the leather is from separating from the hide, such as when tape is adhered and pulled away.
• Light fastness measures the amount of color fading you should expect when the leather is exposed to UV rays, such as when placed by a window with direct sunlight.

Our Cortina Crypton leathers are coded from 1 to 3 (3 being the best)

Performance Code 1

Cortina’s Performance Code 1 leathers are considered by many to be the most beautiful and authentic leathers, in many cases because they are least protected and thus most naturally portray the genuine uniqueness of each hide. All Cortina leathers with Performance Code 1 are protected with some level of water/stain repellency to resist spotting and staining.

Performance Code 2

Cortina’s Performance Code 2 leathers retain their natural appearance while carrying additional protections against abrasion, staining, and color fading. Aniline leathers with some protection and semi-anilines are found here. These leathers are suitable for a wide range of applications that are at risk for stain and wear, such as those found in all hospitality, commercial, and residential dining areas.

Performance Code 3

Cortina’s Performance Code 3 leathers have the highest industry warranty and are protected for use in the most challenging, ultra high-traffic wear, stain and fading environments such as commercial (office task chairs), hospitality (dining and bar seating including casinos and cruise ships), as well as private aviation and automotive aftermarket. Only pigmented and semi-aniline leathers with strong protection meet the standards for this category. These leathers are also suitable for any application where bright, uniform color and grain, and exotic looks are desired.