As surprising as it sounds, not all upholstery used in cowhide chairs is authentic cowhide. Some manufacturers use faux cowhide instead. It’s cheaper, low on maintenance and matches the look and feel of real cowhide. But it’s not even close to it in terms of durability.
Authentic cowhide is soft, thick and durable. You can select one in natural colors. For example, Holstein cattle with their large black and white splotches, Texas Longhorns with their random coloration and speckles or Herefords with their bright browns and whites.
Or you can pick dyed ones in bright and bold colors. Cowhide can also be dyed to resemble exotic wildlife skin, like Zebra, giraffe, leopard and Lion.