noun
vegetable-tanned cowhide; tannin-tanned leather
Refers specifically to cowhide tanned using tannin (often from plant sources), producing a firm, durable leather. Used in crafts, saddlery, and traditional leatherwork.
この財布はヌメ革で作られていて、使うほどに味が出ます。
This wallet is made of vegetable-tanned leather and develops character with use.
ヌメ革は水に弱いので、雨の日は注意が必要です。
Vegetable-tanned leather is sensitive to water, so you need to be careful on rainy days.
The term ヌメ革 likely derives from 滑 (ぬめ), referring to the smooth, slightly slippery surface of this type of leather, combined with 革 (かわ, 'leather'). The exact origin is uncertain.