Alligator eller krokodille? Kampen om skinnbelter i verdensklasse. - Bredal Wild - The luxury leather shop.

Alligator or crocodile? The battle for world-class leather belts.

Dec 30, 2024

Alligator and crocodile are considered two of the most exclusive and sought-after leather materials in the world. Both are used in luxury products like belts, bags and shoes — but the differences between them are greater than many think. Here is an overview of what sets these reptiles apart, and why it matters for you when choosing a world-class belt.

Alligator, crocodile and caiman – three reptiles, three expressions

Although alligator, crocodile and caiman are often mentioned in the same category, they have clear biological and visual differences.
The jaw – the most visible difference
The jaw is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to distinguish the species:
• Alligator: Wide and rounded jaw. Teeth sit inside when the mouth is closed.
• Caiman: Same wide and rounded jaw shape as the alligator, and the teeth also sit inside.
• Crocodile: Narrower and more pointed jaw, with more teeth that sit outside and are clearly visible.
Alligator has a bite force of around 2 tons, while the crocodile is known to be more

Back plates and “head bumps” – clear species differences
On the back are some of the most reliable features for identifying the species:
• Alligator: 2 + 2 + 2 horn plates
• Crocodile: 4 + 2 horn plates
• Caiman: 4 + 4 + 2 horn plates

This pattern is so distinctive that experts can identify the species even from small leather pieces.

Only alligator has an umbilical scar
A unique feature is that only alligator has a visible umbilical scar (navel point) on the skin. Crocodile and caiman do not have this.
This is one of the most definitive signs of genuine alligator leather.

Scale pattern – alligator is more varied than crocodile
Many believe crocodile has the most varied pattern, but the truth is the opposite:
• Alligator belly: More variable, more uneven and more lively pattern. The alligator is smaller, and the scales develop with greater natural variation.
• Crocodile belly: Smoother and more symmetrical pattern. The crocodile is larger, and the scales are more similar in size and shape.
This makes alligator a more exciting and dynamic material — especially for belts.
“Sensor dot” – a reliable sign of crocodile
All crocodiles have a small dot in each belly scale. This is a sensory point that detects movements in the water.
• Crocodile: Dot in each scale
• Alligator: No dots (except under the jaw)
See dots in every scale → crocodile. No dots → alligator.

Freshwater vs. saltwater – and why it matters
There are several crocodile species, and the differences between freshwater and saltwater crocodiles are significant:
• Saltwater crocodile: Can move between freshwater and saltwater. Becomes the largest and oldest.
• Freshwater crocodile: Smaller, but still larger than alligator.
Alligator rarely exceeds 10 feet, while crocodiles can become much larger.

Distribution and populations
Alligator
• Only two species: American Alligator and Chinese Alligator
• After 20 years of protection in the USA there are now:
o over 2 million wild alligators in Louisiana
o over 1 million in Florida
o more than 800,000 on farms
Crocodile
• Widespread in Asia and Africa
• Large populations
• Multiple species, including saltwater crocodile and Nile crocodile

Lifespan and size
• Alligator: 40–50 years on average
• Saltwater crocodile: Can reach around 70 years
World records
• Largest saltwater crocodile: Lolong – 6.17 m and 1075 kg
• Largest alligator: Alabama, 2014 – 4.90 m and 459 kg

How does this affect the leather?
Alligator
• Softer
• More variable pattern
• More vibrant expression
• Considered the most luxurious leather in the world
Crocodile
• Smoother scales
• More symmetrical
• Distinct texture
• Hornback gives a powerful expression
Caiman
• Harder leather
• More uneven texture
• Less expensive than alligator and crocodile

Example – Crocodile Hornback belt

Back belts in crocodile, like our Crocodile Hornback 38 mm, clearly show the crocodile's characteristic horns and structure. These are belts with a powerful and masculine expression — completely different from the more elegant alligator leather.

Which leather should you choose?
It depends on style, expression and use:
• Alligator: For those who want the most luxurious, smooth and exclusive.
• Crocodile: For those who want more texture, more character and a stronger expression.
• Caiman: A more affordable option with a more rustic texture.

About the author
Tor Bredal Designer, alligator hunter and founder of BREDAL Wild. Specialist in exotic leathers, documented production and authentic craftsmanship.. 17 years of experience with exotic leathers.