Quick answer: Choose leather if you want a soft, classic feel in the hand for everyday walks on a short lead. Choose a waterproof long line if you do recall training, swim spots or muddy parks and want something you can rinse clean. Many Aussie households end up with one of each.
How leather and waterproof leads differ
Both are good tools. They just suit different jobs, so it helps to think about where and how you walk your dog.
- Leather: soft once broken in, warm in the hand, and it develops a lovely patina. It prefers to stay dry.
- Waterproof webbing style leads: wipe or rinse clean, dry quickly and resist smells, so they cope with beaches, creeks and wet grass.
If you are choosing a leather collar to match, our guide how to choose a leather dog collar covers fit and width.
Who leather suits
Leather is a great daily lead for neighbourhood walks, cafe stops and vet visits. It is gentle on your hands, which matters if your dog pulls a little or you walk twice a day.
- Dogs walking on a short lead around the suburbs
- Owners who like a classic look that ages well
- Dry weather walks and city outings
Our Handmade Australian Leather Collar is a good match for a leather look, and you can browse the full walk and collar collection too.
Who waterproof long lines suit
A 9m long line gives your dog room to sniff and explore while you keep a safe connection. That makes it popular for recall practice in big open spaces, and the waterproof, smellproof material copes with mud and sand.
- Recall training in parks and paddocks, where it is allowed
- Beach and creek days when the lead will get wet
- Dogs who need to build confidence away from you
We stock three colours: Cheesecake, Squid Ink and Grapefruit.
Choosing the right length
Length changes how the lead behaves, so match it to the job.
- Around 1.2 to 1.8m: everyday walking, footpaths and crossings, where you want close control.
- 3m: a little freedom on quiet streets and cafe stops.
- 9m: training and exploring in open, safe spaces. Wear gloves if your dog is a fast runner, and never wrap the line around your hand.
Long lines are not for busy footpaths or roads. Keep a short lead for those, and always follow local council rules about where dogs must be on a lead.
Caring for each type
A little care keeps both lasting well.
- Leather: wipe with a damp cloth, let it dry naturally away from direct heat, and use a leather conditioner now and then. If it gets soaked, dry it slowly.
- Waterproof leads: rinse off mud or salt water, hang to dry, and check clips and stitching regularly.
Check any lead for fraying or weak spots before each walk. For other gear that gets a workout, see the ultimate dog beach day essentials checklist.
Can you use both?
Yes, and plenty of people do. Keep a leather lead and collar for the daily loop, and grab the waterproof long line for weekend adventures and training sessions. We ship across Australia from $9.95, dispatch within 0 to 2 business days, and offer 60 day returns on eligible items.
Frequently asked questions
Is leather or waterproof better for a puppy?
For a young puppy learning to walk, a lightweight short lead is usually easiest to manage. A waterproof lead copes well with chewing accidents and mud, while leather needs more care. Supervise chewing either way.
Can I use a 9m lead for everyday walks?
It is better saved for training and open spaces. On footpaths and near roads a shorter lead gives you the control you need.
How do I clean a waterproof lead?
Rinse it with fresh water, use a mild soap for stubborn mud, then hang it to dry fully before storing it.
