The yak, also known as the grunting ox, is a high-altitude bovine native to Asia. Yak leather is primarily used in the production of shoes and boots, as well as for saddles and bags. Around 85% of the world's yaks are found in Tibet, China, and Mongolia, with a total population of roughly 15 million. Wild yaks in Tibet are strictly protected. Historically, Tibetan nomads have utilized yak hides to craft clothing, lassos, and materials for boat building.

Yak leather is known for its dense fiber structure, making it more robust than many other leathers, while also providing excellent insulation and durability. However, working with yak leather can be challenging. The animals store substantial fat deposits beneath their skin to survive the cold temperatures of the Himalayas, but these deposits lead to unevenness and coarseness in the deeper layers of the leather. This adds complexity to the processing, contributing to the leather's higher price.

The quality of yak leather also depends on the animal’s age and gender. As with cattle, the fibers thicken and become coarser with age, resulting in a thicker, less uniform hide. The highest demand for yak leather comes from China, where hides are directly sourced from nomadic farmers at above-market prices to support their livelihood.

Yak leather’s unique combination of resilience, warmth, and toughness makes it a distinctive and sought-after material, perfect for crafting durable, high-quality products.