When it comes to dog training and everyday handling, the material of your lead or collar matters more than most people realise. Grip, durability, feedback, comfort and reliability all change depending on what your gear is made from, especially when you’re working dogs in real-world conditions, not just short footpath walks.
At PK9 Gear, we don’t design gear for showroom floors. Our leather, rope and Biothane leads are tested in Australian conditions: on working dogs, during training sessions, in wet weather, on job sites and in the bush.
So which material performs best? The short answer: it depends on the scenario. Let’s break down how leather, rope and Biothane each perform in real training situations, and when to use each.
Different materials affect:
Choosing the right material isn’t about trends — it’s about matching the gear to the job.
Leather is a trainer favourite for a reason. It offers excellent feedback, natural grip, and a controlled feel that improves communication between handler and dog.
In training scenarios, leather:
This makes leather ideal for structured walking, obedience work and dogs learning leash manners.
Best Training Scenarios for Leather:
PK9 Gear Recommendations
Rope leads are straightforward, lightweight and easy to handle. They’re often preferred by trainers who want minimal bulk and quick responsiveness
In real training use, rope:
Rope leads are often used in combination with slip lead setups for simple, no-fuss handling.
Best Training Scenarios for Rope:
PK9 Gear Recommendations
Biothane is built for mess. It doesn’t absorb water, doesn’t hold odour and wipes clean in seconds — making it a standout choice for outdoor training.
In real training use, Biothane:
This makes it ideal for recall training, long lines and outdoor adventures.
Best Training Scenarios for Biothane:
PK9 Gear Recommendations
There’s no single “best” material, most experienced handlers rotate gear depending on:
For example:
The right combination reduces frustration and improves result
| Feature | Leather | Rope | Biothane |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feedback & control | Excellent | Good | Moderate |
| Comfort in hand | High | Moderate | High |
| Wet weather use | Moderate | Low | Excellent |
| Durability | Very high | Moderate | Very high |
| Best use | Walking & obedience | Short training | Outdoor & recall |
All PK9 Gear leads and collars are:
We choose materials based on performance, not trends.
Leather, rope and Biothane all have a place in dog training, when used correctly. Choosing the right material for the scenario improves communication, safety and consistency for both you and your dog. If you’re ready to upgrade your setup, explore PK9 Gear’s leather leads and collars, Biothane leads, long lines and training gear, and build a system that works in the real world.
