Is Leather Waterproof: Full Guide to Types, Care & Protection

Leather is one of the world’s most iconic materials—luxurious, durable, and timeless. Yet one question continues to confuse consumers, designers, and even some retailers: is leather actually waterproof? Many people assume leather, being used in boots, jackets, and bags for centuries, must naturally resist rain. But in reality, leather behaves very differently from synthetic materials, and its response to water varies dramatically depending on its type, tanning method, fiber density, and finishing treatments. Understanding this is essential for buyers and critical for brands developing OEM/ODM leather products.

Leather is not naturally waterproof—most genuine leather is only water-resistant to a limited degree. Because leather is porous, water can penetrate the fibers, causing darkening, stiffness, or long-term damage if untreated. However, certain tanning methods (such as chrome tanning or oil tanning) and surface coatings can significantly increase water resistance. With proper waterproofing care, leather goods can handle moisture, but they are never 100% waterproof like synthetic materials.

Today, as leather bags, belts, footwear, and accessories continue to dominate global markets, consumers and brands are demanding clearer information about performance in real-world environments—rain, humidity, spills, and outdoor use. So let’s explore what “waterproof leather” actually means, why some leathers handle moisture better than others, and how brands can make informed decisions when sourcing materials for their next product line.

What Does “Waterproof Leather” Really Mean?

“Waterproof leather” refers to genuine leather that has been chemically treated during tanning or coated after finishing to resist water absorption. It is not fully impervious to water, but it slows penetration, prevents fiber swelling, and protects color and structure during exposure. Waterproof leather withstands rain and moisture far better than untreated leather but still requires proper care to maintain performance.

Waterproof vs Water-Resistant vs Natural Leather — What’s the Difference?

Here is a clear comparison table:

This distinction is essential for brands developing OEM/ODM products, because “waterproof” may not mean the same thing among buyers.

Why Can’t Leather Become 100% Waterproof Like Synthetic Materials?

Leather is a natural material composed of:

• A porous collagen fiber network
• Micro-capillaries
• Absorbent channels

Even after waterproof treatments, some amount of moisture vapor can still pass through. This is a good thing — it keeps leather:

• breathable
• flexible
• comfortable to the touch

Leather can be highly water-resistant. But no genuine leather becomes 100% impermeable without losing its natural qualities.

What Makes Waterproof Leather Perform Better Than Regular Leather?

1. Internal hydrophobic treatments
   • Silicone, fluorocarbon, or special fatliquors added during tanning
   • Reduces fiber absorption pathways
   • Retains softness and flexibility
2. Surface sealing finishes
   • Wax, oil, acrylic, or PU coatings
   • Causes water to bead instead of soak
3. Compression finishing
   • Densifies grain structure
   • Improves moisture resistance mechanically
4. Oiling or hot-stuffing (used for oil-tanned leather)
   • Fills the fiber network with lubricants
   • Exceptional weather resistance

These industrial processes allow waterproof leather to withstand:

• Light rain
• Humid climates
• Outdoor use
• Occasional splashes
• Delayed water absorption during accidents

Does Waterproof Leather Still Age and Patinate?

Yes—high-quality waterproof leather still develops:

• a natural patina
• subtle color evolution
• softness and character unique to real leather

However, the aging process may progress slightly slower because coatings reduce oxygen and oil exchange.

Waterproofing improves performance without removing authenticity.

Common Misunderstandings About Waterproof Leather

Here are misconceptions that customers often search on Google:

“If it’s waterproof leather, then it won’t get damaged by water at all.”

Even waterproof leather can stain or stiffen if submerged.

“PU leather is waterproof, so it must be better.”

PU is waterproof but lacks durability, flexibility, and patina.

“All waterproof leather feels coated or plastic-like.”

High-end waterproof leathers (like waterproof full-grain) maintain natural feel.

“Conditioners make leather waterproof.”

Conditioners add moisture resistance, not waterproofing.

Misunderstandings often happen because the word “waterproof” isn’t standardized across consumers or markets—making correct buyer education essential.

When Should You Use Waterproof Leather in Product Development?

Waterproof leather is ideal for:

• Outdoor travel bags
• Motorcycle or cycling leather accessories
• Everyday belts
• Hiking boots or tactical boots
• Wallets in humid climates
• Dog collars or pet products
• Laptop bags and crossbody bags exposed to rain

For OEM/ODM clients, selecting waterproof leather reduces:

• customer complaints
• returns due to water stains
• shape deformation after moisture exposure

This is a HUGE advantage for brands targeting North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and rainy climate markets.

Which Types of Leather Are More Water-Resistant?

Full-grain leather, chrome-tanned leather, oil-tanned leather, and waterproof-treated leather are the most water-resistant types. They feature tighter fiber structures and hydrophobic finishes that slow down water absorption. Vegetable-tanned leather is the least resistant because its open-pored, absorbent structure soaks up water quickly. Water resistance improves further when leather is waxed, oiled, or coated at the finishing stage.

Below is a comprehensive guide of how each leather category performs in real-world moisture conditions and why some are better suited for wet environments.

Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather retains the entire grain layer, which is the densest and strongest part of the hide. Because fibers are tightly packed, water takes longer to penetrate.

Why It Resists Water Better

• Natural grain structure slows absorption
• Surface oils and waxes remain intact longer
• Stronger fiber integrity prevents swelling

Where It Performs Best

• Premium bags
• Footwear
• Outdoor gear
• Belts and straps

Full-grain leather is not waterproof, but with conditioning and light finishing treatments, it becomes one of the toughest leathers against moisture.

Top-Grain Leather

Top-grain leather is sanded and corrected for a uniform surface. The slight reduction in density makes it a bit less resistant than full-grain but still good when finished properly.

Why Water Resistance Varies

• Removed grain reduces natural tightness
• Often coated with pigments or polyurethane (PU) finishes
• Finishes add water resistance but reduce breathability

Typical Use Cases

• Fashion bags
• Wallets
• Shoes
• Small leather goods

If the product requires consistent moisture protection, top-grain with a PU coating performs reliably.

Chrome-Tanned Leather

Chrome tanning produces leather with excellent water resistance because chromium salts stabilize fibers and reduce their ability to absorb moisture.

Key Advantages

• Resists water staining
• Remains flexible after getting wet
• Faster drying without stiffness
• Superior for humid climates

Industries That Prefer Chrome-Tanned Leather

• Modern fashion brands
• Performance footwear
• Travel bag manufacturers
• OEM clients needing durability

Chrome-tanned leather is the global standard when consistent water performance is required.

Oil-Tanned and Waxed Leather

Oil-tanned leather (also called pull-up leather) undergoes “hot stuffing” with oils, waxes, and fats during tanning. This internal lubrication dramatically improves water resistance.

Why It Performs So Well

• Oils fill internal fiber gaps
• Water beads on the surface
• Flexibility is retained even when damp

Where It Is Used

• Outdoor boots
• Work belts
• Motorcycle bags
• Heritage-style leather goods

Oil-tanned leather is a top choice for brands targeting rugged, outdoor-oriented customers.

Waterproof-Treated Leather

This category includes any leather treated specifically for waterproofing during tanning or finishing.

Methods Used

• Hydrophobic fatliquors
• Silicone treatments
• Fluorocarbon-based repellents
• PU/acrylic protective coatings

Performance

• Withstands rain exposure
• Prevents water absorption
• Maintains color stability
• Ideal for high-performance applications

This is the best choice for OEM brands that want functional leather bags, laptop sleeves, outdoor gear, pet collars, or tactical accessories.

Nubuck & Suede

Even though these leathers are beautiful and luxurious, they are extremely absorbent.

Why They Are Not Water-Resistant

• Sanded or split fibers expose porous surfaces
• Water causes dark spots and texture changes
• Mold risk increases in humid climates

Brands can improve their performance only with:

• strong protective sprays
• waterproof finishing treatments

Vegetable-Tanned Leather

Veg-tan leather is beloved for its craftsmanship and patina, but it absorbs water very easily.

Why It Absorbs Water

• Open fiber structure
• Natural tannins without hydrophobic agents
• More sensitive to humidity and liquid exposure

Effects of Water

• Staining
• Darkening
• Warping when dried
• Long-term cracking if not conditioned

While beautiful, veg-tan leather should not be used for products frequently exposed to water.

How Leather Types Compare in Water Resistance

Which Leather Should Brands Choose for Water-Exposed Products?

Best choices for outdoor or travel categories:

• Waterproof-treated full-grain
• Chrome-tanned leather
• Oil-tanned leather

For fashion bags with light exposure:

• Pigmented top-grain leather

For luxury goods (not designed for water):

• Veg-tan
• Aniline full-grain

If you’re designing belts, bags, straps, wallets, or accessories, choosing the correct leather dramatically reduces:

• customer complaints
• water-related returns
• long-term product deformation

How Is Waterproof Leather Made?

Waterproof leather is produced through a combination of hydrophobic tanning agents, oil or wax fatliquoring, fiber stabilization, and surface sealing finishes. During tanning, waterproofing chemicals penetrate the hide to block water absorption at the fiber level. After tanning, waxes, oils, silicones, or polyurethane coatings are applied to create a water-repellent surface. These combined steps prevent swelling, staining, and moisture damage while keeping the leather flexible and durable.

Below is a complete guide of how tanneries engineer waterproof leather from raw-hide preparation to finishing.

Step 1 — Preparing the Raw Hide for Waterproof Treatment

Before waterproofing can be added, the hide must be properly prepared:

1. Washing & Rehydration

• Removes dirt, salt, blood, and contaminants
• Rehydrates fibers for uniform chemical penetration

2. Liming & Fleshing

• Opens the fiber structure
• Removes hair and unwanted tissues
• Ensures waterproofing agents can reach deep layers

3. Deliming & Bating

• Softens fibers
• Improves flexibility and receptivity to tanning chemicals

This step ensures the leather’s internal structure is clean, even, and ready for hydrophobic modification.

Step 2 — Tanning with Hydrophobic Chemicals

This is the most critical step for creating waterproof leather.

Chrome Tanning (Most Common for Waterproof Leather)

Chrome tanning stabilizes collagen fibers, making them:

• less absorbent
• more flexible after drying
• more resistant to swelling

Chrome-tanned leather inherently performs better in water than vegetable-tanned leather.

Hydrophobic Fatliquors Added During Tanning

Tanneries introduce waterproofing agents such as:

• silicone-based compounds
• fluorocarbon polymers
• hydrophobic synthetic oils
• wax emulsions

These chemicals bond to leather fibers, forming a hydrophobic barrier inside the material, not just on the surface.

Why This Matters

• Water cannot easily penetrate
• Fibers remain lubricated
• Leather maintains softness instead of stiffening

This is what separates true waterproof leather from simple wax-coated leather.

Step 3 — Hot-Stuffing, Oil-Tanning, or Wax-Infusion

After tanning, additional waterproofing may be applied through:

1. Hot Stuffing

• Oils, waxes, and greases are heated and infused into the leather
• Creates pull-up or oil-tanned leather
• Fills fiber gaps, preventing water from entering

2. Oil Tanning

• Traditional method for creating highly water-resistant work leather
• Deep lubrication improves flexibility in rainy or humid climates

3. Wax Saturation

• Sometimes used for outdoor leather gear
• Produces a rugged, water-shedding surface

These steps significantly increase natural water resistance without synthetic coatings.

Step 4 — Drying, Conditioning, and Stabilizing the Leather

After waterproof treatments, leather must be dried carefully:

Controlled Drying

• Prevents cracking or uneven water resistance
• Controls shrinkage

Staking & Milling

• Softens leather
• Reopens fibers slightly to maintain breathability

Conditioning

• Reintroduces protective oils lost during drying
• Enhances long-term waterproof performance

Improper drying can ruin waterproof capabilities, making this a critical step.

Step 5 — Applying Water-Repellent Finishes

Surface finishing is the second layer of waterproofing (fiber waterproofing is the first).

Common finishing techniques include:

1. Silicone or Fluorocarbon Sprays

• Causes water to bead and roll off
• Enhances stain resistance

2. Acrylic or Polyurethane (PU) Top Coats

• Adds a thin protective barrier
• Used often in bag leather and upholstery leather

3. Wax or Oil Top Finishes

• Popular for outdoor boot leather
• Creates a natural water-repelling surface

4. Nano-Coating Technology

• Hydrophobic nano-layers repel water at the molecular level
• Increasingly used for modern performance leather

These finishes can be adjusted depending on the final product’s environment.

Step 6 — Quality Testing for Waterproof Performance

Professional tanneries perform strict waterproofing tests:

Brands purchasing waterproof leather should always ask suppliers for test reports.

Step 7 — Cutting, Production, and Maintenance Considerations

Even after waterproofing, leather needs the right handling:

Cutting Considerations

• Maintain waterproof grain direction
• Avoid exposing untreated edges

Edge Treatment

• Edges may require additional sealing

Care Instructions

• Condition with hydrophobic creams
• Avoid over-saturation

Even waterproof leather lasts longer when maintained properly.

How Do You Test Leather for Water Resistance?

Testing leather for water resistance is essential for manufacturers, brands, and buyers who need to confirm whether a material can withstand rain, humidity, and direct moisture exposure. Evaluating water resistance involves laboratory testing, factory-level quality checks, and real-world usage simulations. Each method reveals how the leather behaves structurally—whether fibers swell, whether water penetrates, and whether finishing layers stay intact.

Leather water resistance is tested using laboratory methods such as the water drop test, hydrostatic pressure test, dynamic spray test, and flexing water penetration test. These tests measure how quickly water absorbs, how deeply it penetrates fibers, and how the leather performs under movement or pressure. Real-world tests—such as light rain simulation and absorption timing—are also used by manufacturers and brands to evaluate the leather’s moisture performance.

Method 1 — Surface Water Drop Test (Basic Hydrophobicity Test)

This is the simplest and fastest test used by manufacturers, designers, and consumers.

How the Test Works

• A small drop of water is placed on the leather surface.
• Observe how quickly the leather absorbs the water.

Interpretation

Why This Test Matters

It reveals the quality of the surface finish, especially wax, oil, PU, or silicone coatings. However, it does not measure deep-fiber resistance.

Method 2 — Hydrostatic Pressure Test (Deep Fiber Resistance Test)

Used in laboratory settings to determine how much water pressure the leather can withstand before penetration.

How the Test Works

• Leather is clamped into a chamber.
• Water pressure is gradually increased from below.
• The pressure at which water penetrates is recorded (mmH₂O).

Performance Ratings

Why This Test Matters

It measures internal waterproofing, not just surface repellency, making it ideal for evaluating leather used in:

• outdoor bags
• boots
• belts
• pet products

Method 3 — Dynamic Water Spray Test (ISO 4920)

Simulates rainfall hitting leather at various angles—important for bag brands.

How the Test Works

• Leather is placed at a 45° angle.
• Water is sprayed uniformly.
• Water repellency rating is assigned from 0–5.

Rating Meaning

Why This Test Matters

It represents real outdoor use and helps manufacturers evaluate performance under rainy conditions.

Method 4 — Flexing Water Penetration Test (ISO 5403 / SATRA TM172)

This test shows how leather performs when bent, flexed, or creased, which is critical for belts, footwear, and bags.

How the Test Works

• A leather sample is repeatedly flexed while partially immersed in water.
• Test continues until water penetrates.

Key Indicators

• Total flex cycles before failure
• Degree of fiber swelling
• Structural breakdown of finishes

Why This Test Matters

Real-life leather items (belts, straps, handles) bend constantly, so this test measures functional durability, not just initial hydrophobicity.

Method 5 — Absorption and Desorption Test (ISO 2417)

This evaluates how quickly leather absorbs water and how it dries, both essential for long-term durability.

Measured Metrics

• % water absorbed in a fixed time
• % water retained after drying
• Changes in weight, thickness, or stiffness

What This Reveals

A stable waterproof leather should:

• absorb minimal water
• dry evenly
• resist stiffening

Poor-quality leather becomes brittle and warped after desorption.

Method 6 — Real-World Simulation Tests

Szoneier Leather and many professional factories run practical performance tests that evaluate leather beyond laboratory standards.

Common Real-World Tests

1. Light Rain Simulation (10–30 minutes) Measures surface behavior and stain resistance.
2. Spill Resistance Test Coffee, sweat, or alcohol droplets are applied to evaluate staining.
3. Humidity Chamber Test Leather is exposed to 60–90% humidity to test mold risk and fiber stability.
4. Edge Water Absorption Test Checks if water penetrates faster from unfinished edges—common in belts and straps.
5. Full Submersion Test (Extreme Use Case) While unrealistic for normal use, it tests waterproof agents’ limits.

Why Brands Value These Tests

They predict real customer experiences and reduce product return rates.

Method 7 — Consumer-Level Quick Tests

Consumers often want to quickly check leather water resistance before purchasing.

Easy Tests Anyone Can Do

• Breath Test: If warm breath darkens the leather instantly, it’s more absorbent.
• Fingernail Test: Press lightly; if the mark disappears, fibers are dense (better water resistance).
• Micro Drop Observation: Check if beads stay spherical for 10–20 seconds.

These tests are not as accurate as laboratory methods but offer useful insight.

Water Resistance Test Methods

How Can You Waterproof Leather Properly?

You can improve leather’s water resistance by using the right care products—such as waxes, oils, creams, and spray-on protectors—while avoiding over-saturation that blocks breathability. Start with clean, dry leather, apply a thin, even layer of product, let it absorb, and buff off the excess. Repeat periodically based on usage. Different leathers (smooth, nubuck, suede) require different waterproofing products and techniques.

Even if your leather wasn’t originally marketed as “waterproof,” you can meaningfully improve its resistance with proper aftercare and product selection. This is especially important for belts, bags, wallets, and outdoor accessories that customers will use in real life—not just in studio photos.

Step 1 — Know Your Leather Type

Before applying anything, identify whether you’re dealing with:

• Smooth full-grain or top-grain leather
• Semi-aniline or pigmented leather
• Nubuck or suede
• Vegetable-tanned leather

Smooth, finished leathers accept creams and waxes well. Nubuck and suede require dedicated aerosol sprays and should never be treated with heavy greasy products that flatten the nap.

Step 2 — Clean Before You Protect

Waterproofing over dirt seals the dirt in. Basic prep steps:

1. Brush off dust and loose particles.
2. Use a dedicated leather cleaner or mild solution with a soft cloth.
3. Let the leather dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight.

Only then should you apply any waterproofing products.

Step 3 — Choose the Right Protection Product

Common categories include:

• Wax-based products (beeswax, carnauba, etc.) – great for boots, belts, rugged bags; excellent water resistance but may darken color.
• Cream conditioners with water-repellent additives – good balance for everyday leather goods.
• Spray-on protectors – ideal for suede/nubuck and also usable on smooth leather; many modern formulas are fluorocarbon-free.

For brand lines, you can even bundle appropriate care products with your leather goods to educate customers.

Step 4 — Application Technique

General rules for smooth leather:

1. Apply a small amount on a soft cloth or sponge.
2. Work in thin, even layers, not thick blobs.
3. Allow time for absorption (usually 10–30 minutes).
4. Buff with a clean cloth to remove excess and restore sheen.

Always test on an inconspicuous area first to check for color change or gloss level.

Step 5 — Maintenance Schedule & Customer Education

Waterproofing is not a one-time event. Frequency depends on:

• Climate (wet vs dry)
• Usage (daily vs occasional)
• Leather finishing

For heavy outdoor use, monthly or seasonal re-treatment may be appropriate. For bags and belts in normal conditions, a few times per year might be enough.

From an OEM/ODM viewpoint, clear care instructions and possibly co-branded care kits help reduce complaints and increase product lifespan—reinforcing your brand’s reputation for quality.

Is Waterproof Leather Suitable for Bags, Belts, Wallets, and Accessories?

Waterproof leather is increasingly popular across fashion, outdoor gear, and premium accessories—not only for performance but also for durability and customer satisfaction. Whether waterproof leather is suitable for specific leather goods depends on product function, climate, target audience, and brand positioning. In most cases, waterproof leather delivers superior value for items exposed to daily handling, moisture, rain, sweat, or spills.

Yes, waterproof leather is suitable for bags, belts, wallets, and accessories because it offers enhanced durability, resistance to rain and moisture, and reduced risk of staining or warping. Waterproof leather maintains its flexibility, color, and structural integrity even with repeated exposure to humidity or daily use. Its performance benefits make it ideal for travel goods, outdoor accessories, and everyday leather products that require long-lasting protection.

Different leather products face different environmental stresses. Waterproof leather helps brands improve durability, reduce customer complaints, and expand usability across climates.

Waterproof Leather for Bags — A Major Upgrade for Everyday and Travel Use

Bags experience daily contact with weather, sweat, drinks, oils, and abrasion. Waterproof leather solves many long-term durability issues.

Benefits for Bags

• Prevents water stains and blotching
• Reduces color bleeding during rain
• Keeps structure from softening or warping
• Protects internal contents
• Extends lifespan in humid climates

Best Applications

• Travel bags
• Laptop bags
• Handbags for rainy regions
• Crossbody and messenger bags
• Outdoor backpacks

Why Brands Prefer Using Waterproof Leather

From a manufacturing perspective, waterproof leather increases customer satisfaction and reduces returns caused by:

• moisture spots
• edge curling
• leather stiffening after wet-dry cycles

This makes it a strategic choice for high-traffic goods.

Waterproof Leather for Belts — More Stable, Sweat-Resistant, and Durable

Belts undergo constant bending, tension, sweat exposure, and friction. Sweat, especially acidic sweat, can degrade untreated leather quickly.

Advantages for Belts

• Resistant to sweat absorption
• Less prone to cracking from repeated flexing
• Maintains finish better under everyday wear
• Reduces odor buildup
• Withstands humid climates

Ideal Belt Types

• Workwear belts
• Outdoor or hiking belts
• Everyday men’s belts
• Tactical or military-style belts

Why Waterproof Leather Improves Belt Quality

Because belts must endure mechanical flexing, waterproof leather’s internal hydrophobic treatments preserve fiber elasticity and prevent collapse.

Waterproof Leather for Wallets — Protection Against Sweat, Spills, and Pocket Moisture

Wallets are exposed not only to external moisture but also body heat, humidity, and sweat when placed in pockets. Over time, untreated leather darkens, softens, or absorbs oils unevenly.

Benefits for Wallets

• Slows down sweat absorption
• Minimizes pocket moisture staining
• Keeps leather edges from fraying
• Maintains color stability
• Protects banknotes and cards

Particularly Useful For

• Slim wallets carried in pants pockets
• Travel wallets exposed to unpredictable weather
• Card holders carried in hand frequently

Brand Advantage

Waterproof leather wallets maintain their “new” appearance longer—an important selling point for consumers who expect long-term aesthetics.

Waterproof Leather for Small Accessories

Accessories often have high-touch usage patterns and are exposed to unexpected environments.

Suitable Accessories

• Key holders
• AirTag holders
• Passport covers
• Phone cases
• Wrist straps
• Watch bands
• Camera straps

Performance Benefits

• Protects against hand oils and accidental splashes
• Prevents premature color fading
• Avoids fiber deformation in high-flex zones
• Ensures shape retention and longer usability

Especially Important For:

• Outdoor accessories
• Pet collars and leashes
• Travel goods

These items face fast wear-and-tear if not made from durable leather.

When Waterproof Leather Is NOT Ideal — Understanding Limitations

Despite its advantages, waterproof leather may not fit every brand aesthetic or product line.

Possible Drawbacks

• Slightly less natural patina development
• Some coated versions feel less “buttery”
• May darken slightly from oils or waxes used in waterproofing
• More expensive than untreated leather
• Certain high-fashion brands prefer aniline finishes for visual depth

Products Better Suited to Traditional Leather

• Luxury artistic handbags
• Fine dress belts with high gloss
• Collectible leather goods
• Heritage vegetable-tanned products

If your brand prioritizes natural aging, patina, and premium softness, then a balance between performance and appearance must be strategized.

Conclusion

Waterproof leather is not just a material upgrade—it is a strategic decision that shapes product durability, customer experience, and long-term brand reputation. The performance of a leather bag, wallet, belt, or accessory in real-world environments depends on choosing the right leather type, the right tanning method, and the right finishing system. But even the best waterproof leather fails if the construction, edge finishing, lining selection, or stitching techniques aren’t optimized. In other words, true waterproof performance is the result of both advanced material science and expert craftsmanship.

Whether you’re creating a premium wallet line, a weather-resistant travel bag collection, durable belts, outdoor accessories, or a full leather goods program, we help you choose the right waterproof leather solution for your brand’s style, price point, and market needs.

If you want leather products that combine beauty, durability, and everyday practicality— It starts with the right material. And it succeeds with the right manufacturing partner.

Szoneier Leather is ready to help you develop custom, private label, or OEM/ODM waterproof leather products that stand out in design, performance, and longevity. Contact us today to begin your project or request material recommendations and samples.