Woodheads Leather Industry

Operating out of bustling Cape Town, Woodheads has been in operation since 1867 when it was founded by Sir John Woodhead to supply raw materials and products to the leather industry.

Today, you’ll still find the leather merchant on Caledon Street in the CBD – a vibrant creative Mecca in the Mother City.

And just as the city has grown around it, the company has grown, too, adding to its range of leather homeware and lifestyle products, which today includes thousands of items.

“Over the decades, the company has continued contributing to the local leather industry. As trends come and go, Woodheads has made sure to update its product offering to the leather industry to correspond with the changes. Woodheads has grown its products to over 5000 items and offers local and international customer service via its websites and its Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal branches,” says the company.

These products include what is undoubtedly the company’s most famous and popular item: Karu sheepskin slippers.

“The lining and insole are made from 100 percent natural South African merino wool, which has been exclusively made for Karu for exceptional comfort while still being a more affordable option to sheepskin,” explains Woodheads.

“Wool is well known for its properties making it ideal for this slipper.”

Perfect for keeping feet warm on cold mornings and evenings, the comfy slippers come in various designs, including the Original Karu, Sleek and Mule designs – all lined with plush merino wool and featuring a sheep collar for the ultimate comfort underfoot.

Woodheads also offers design and bespoke manufacturing services to clients.