What’s the Difference Between Alligator and Crocodile Skins?

Many of the high-end luxury accessories available are made from the hides of a variety of animals. Among the most popular types of leather to use for products such as boots, purses, belts, wallets and shoes are the skins from either alligators or crocodiles. Before you invest in a custom-crafted item for your closet, learn how alligator and crocodile skin in Baton Rouge, LA differ from one another.

An alligator is a crocodile

When shopping for crocodile and alligator skin in Baton Rouge, LA, it’s important to know what you are looking at so you can spot the good hides. Alligators fall into the classifying order known as Crocodilia, which includes crocodiles, caimans and gharial as well. The reason people so commonly confuse an alligator for a crocodile and vice versa is that they are so closely related.

What differentiates an alligator from a crocodile?

Now you are probably wondering, “If these two aquatic reptiles are so similar, what actually sets them apart?” That’s a great question! Some of the traits that differentiate alligators from crocodiles include:

• Location: You’ll only find alligators in certain parts of the United States and China. However, there are 23 different species of crocodiles that live in freshwater and saltwater habitats around the world.
• Snout: The crocodile has a wider snout that makes a U shape, whereas the alligator has a more pointed, V-shaped snout.
• Size: On average, an adult crocodile is longer than a full-grown alligator.

How do their hides compare to one another?

Of course, there are a number of other characteristics that distinguish a crocodile from an alligator. Most importantly, you want to know how the skin of a crocodile is different from alligator skin in Baton Rouge, LA. Considered the more high-end option, the hide of an alligator does feel softer. Also, because an alligator is not quite as bony as a crocodile, the pattern on the skin is cleaner.

A number of different crocodiles are farmed for their hides to make luxury products. Freshwater, Nile and caiman are three varieties commonly used when you see an item marked as made from crocodile leather. The most highly sought-after pelts are from the Australian saltwater crocodiles. However, depending on what you want made, you have to pick crocodile skin in Baton Rouge, LA carefully. Thinner skins are good for clothing, while others are more suited for boots or belts.

Deciding to make the investment in a custom-made, high-end luxury item, such as a pair of shoes or a shoulder bag, means you are ready to work with the best in the business. You don’t want to waste your hard-earned money on a subpar product that leaves you disappointed. Instead, come to a business that specializes in leather goods, such as those constructed from crocodile or alligator skin in Baton Rouge, LA.

Since 1993, the staff at Acadian Leather have procured the finest hides from the most highly-regarded dealers in the industry. You can count on us to deliver exactly what you envisioned for your custom-made boots, wallet, belt, purse or shoes. Reach out to us to discuss what you have in mind.

Categorised in: Leather Care