Why Pigskin?

The Value of Being Made in Japan

The pigskin used by REN is born and finished entirely in Japan.
Sourced domestically, the material is carefully collected and transformed into leather.

Unlike cowhide or goatskin, which often rely on imported raw materials,
pigskin is tanned and finished within Japan,
reflecting a culture of using resources thoughtfully and without waste.

Pigskin is lightweight, durable, and breathable—qualities well suited for everyday bags.
Yet for a long time, it was rarely used as a main material.
REN sees value precisely in this overlooked potential.

 

Why We Leave the Marks

Embracing Uniqueness

Pigskin naturally carries fine scratches, color variations, and visible pores.
Traditionally, these were considered flaws.

Each mark is a trace of life, making every hide—and every bag—one of a kind.
No two pieces are ever exactly the same.

Rather than offering uniform perfection, we value individuality.
These subtle differences give the leather character, and over time, they deepen as the bag is used.

We believe leather is not something to be perfected, but something to be lived with.

 

How Tokyo Pigskin Suede Is Made

Crafted by Hand, One by One

Before cutting, artisans carefully study each hide.
They decide which areas to use, which to avoid, and where each part of the bag should be placed.

Density, softness, thickness—every hide is different.
Cutting cannot be standardized or automated.

By matching the right parts of the leather to the right parts of the bag,
we are able to use up to 80–90% of each hide.

This process requires time, experience, and attention.
It is also the reason mass production is not possible.

 

Why We Do Not Mass-Produce

Scarcity as a Result, Not a Goal

Tokyo Pigskin Suede bags are not made in large quantities.
Not by choice, but by necessity.

Each piece depends on the condition of the leather,
the judgment of the artisan,
and the time required to work carefully by hand.

Scarcity is not something we aim for.
It is simply the natural outcome of honest craftsmanship.

 

Leather That Ages with You

Scratches, color changes, and softness gained over time—
these are not signs of deterioration.

They are records of use.

Tokyo Pigskin Suede begins with its own natural character.
As you use it, your time and habits are added to that surface.

This layering of life is what gives leather its true depth.

Left: Unused HALLIE / Right: Well-loved HALLIE by our staff