Leather

Use

Leather is known for its luxurious appearance and high durability. That’s why it’s used in many BOSS and HUGO products such as shoes, accessories, bags, and jackets, which can often be worn for a very long time. In 2025, leather comprised around 5% of all our materials used.

Impacts*

In the context of leather production, land and water are required for animal husbandry and the associated feed production. For the further processing of leather, the tanning process is also considered: the chemicals used here have to be disposed of properly – any deficiencies in wastewater management can have a negative impact on the ecosystem and human health. In addition, energy consumption in leather production is comparatively high.

* Summary of our own analyses of available studies and scientific literature

Our Standard

As of 2027, we aim that 100% of the leather we use will be sourced from at least LWG-silver-certified tanneries or tanneries with comparable standards. As of 2025, 93% of the leather we use already comes from at least LWG-silver-certified tanneries.

Measures

HUGO BOSS does not use farmed furs and exotic leather types. Instead, we exclusively use leather that is produced as a by-product of the food industry, such as bovine hides, goatskins, sheepskins, and buffalo hides.

In 2017, HUGO BOSS became a member of the LWG. Its goal is to promote environmental improvements of leather tanneries through audits, and an ongoing dialog. HUGO BOSS is also an active participant in the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme, which strives to eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals in the production of textiles, leather, and apparel.