How many alligators does it take to make a pair of boots?

Two 4′-5′ American Alligators (29-35 cm) produces one pair of boot bottoms, collar trim, initials and one belt. Three 8′-9′ American Alligators (52-54 cm) produces one pair of full boots (tops and bottoms).

Why are alligator boots so expensive?

Because of the limited supply of alligator skins available, there are only so many that can be tanned to begin with driving the costs sky high in comparison to cowhide leather. The same thing is true with alligator skins that are used for making shoes.

How are alligator boots made?

This is the point where the bottom of the alligator upper receives a coating of glue and then the handmade leather sole is attached, first by glue and then using a special shoe sole sewing machine where the shoe artisan slowly and carefully sews the hand carved leather sole and heel to the upper of the alligator shoe.

Are crocodile boots illegal?

If brought into the United States, watchbands, shoes, purses, belts and other goods made from endangered species can be confiscated with no recompense to the owner. The skins of most crocodile species are prohibited. Of three species of caiman, which live in Central and South America, two are banned.

How much gator skin is needed for boots?

Alligator skins for shoes and boots are typically ordered in pairs. Even if you’re simply making one pair of boots or one pair of shoes, the job requires two skins. From that pair of alligator skins, one pair of vamps will be cut from the bellies and one pair of vamps will be cut from the tails.

How can you tell if alligator skin is real?

First, you should know what real alligator skin feels like and smells like. Any “alligator leather” or “crocodile leather” should feel leathery – if it feels artificial or plastic, it is probably not the finish, it probably IS artificial or plastic. Real alligator hides are thick and denser than the fake alternatives.

Is alligator better than leather?

The quality of the leather can vary greatly, high quality alligator has a soft but firm feel while cheaper alligator straps tend to feel thinner and wear out more easily. It is semi-formal and works well with pretty much any metal case material.

Why is alligator leather so expensive?

As a material, crocodile leather is rare and expensive because of limited numbers of crocodiles, their relatively small size and the scarcity of dependable farms and tanning facilities to process and prepare the product for market.

What is the toughest leather in the world?

Kangaroo
Kangaroo is a very light-weight and thin leather that is ounce-for-ounce the toughest leather in the world. It is very interesting to note that Kangaroo is generally much more resistant to drying out than calfskin. Kangaroo leather is lighter and stronger than the hide of a cow or goat.

Is it legal to use alligator leather?

California retailers won a temporary reprieve this week from a statewide ban on the sale of products made from alligator and crocodile skins. A federal judge issued an injunction barring the state from enforcing a law that criminalizes sale and importation of alligator and crocodile parts in California.

How can you tell fake alligator skin?

How are alligator boots made in the USA?

They are handmade in the USA using matched skins from homegrown farm raised Alligators staying within the 6 foot’ average length to keep the look at a size to fit the boot the best, and the skins are beautiful. If you are looking to make a statement this is your boot!

How much do custom alligator cowboy boots cost?

The Austrian: 30B $ 3,525.00 Loud and proud, the Austrian is full of personality with its detailed inlay work and… The Banker: 32B $ 3,200.00 Designed with the high powered businessman in mind, the Banker combines our highest quality skins…

What kind of Boots do you wear with an alligator?

Our Full Hornback Alligator boots in Black or Tobacco are the best looking Full Gator boots that you will find on the market today. They are handmade in the USA using matched skins from homegrown farm raised Alligators staying within the 6 foot’ average length to keep the look at a size to fit the boot the best, and the skins are beautiful.