"Top grain" is the definition that is generally used when the grain is not genuine: when the real grain is sanded away and an imitation grain is stamped into the leather. These leathers are the most-desirable, best-looking and most expensive. As compared to other leather types, top grain leathers are stronger, wear better over time, and have a richer color. The natural animal hide markings in the grain is visible and these markings make each piece unique. Nappa leather is a soft, top-grain leather used in many styles today.

The uppermost layer of the hide, top grain leather is the highest quality part of the hide and the mostly preferred for upholstery applications. It is from the top 3/64 of an inch or .9 mm to 1.5 mm of the outer grain of the leather hide. Any veg- tan or chrome tan leather that uses the natural surface of the animals skin after the hair has been removed is top grain leather.