A brown and white spaniel-type dog lying on a log in tall green grass, looking upward in an outdoor wooded setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about choosing, ordering and caring for your Só Madra rope or leather collar and lead. If your question isn't here, get in touch and I'll be happy to help.

Get in touch

About our collars and leads

Where are Só Madra collars and leads made?

Every piece is made by hand in my home workshop in Scotland, in either marine rope or vegetable tanned leather. See how they're made here...

What's the difference between rope and leather?

Rope pieces are made from double braid marine rope, hand-spliced and finished with a waxed whipping twine, so they're ideal for dogs who swim, roll or spend a lot of time on the beach.

Leather pieces are made from vegetable tanned leather with hand-burnished edges, and they develop a rich patina over time. Rope copes better with regular soaking, while leather needs a little more care but ages beautifully.

What's the difference between a clip lead and a slip lead?

A clip lead attaches to your dog's collar with a clip. A slip lead is one continuous lead which has a loop at one end that goes over your dog's head so no collar is needed. You can read more in The Journal.

What hardware do you use?

Every piece is fitted with solid brass or stainless steel, both chosen because they cope well with rain, salt spray and sea air. Solid brass naturally darkens to a warm patina over time and can be polished back to a shine if you prefer.

What is hand-splicing?

Instead of tying knots or using glue or clamps, I use this traditional marine technique of joining the rope to form the loops. The harder the rope is pulled, the tighter the splice grips, which keeps it strong, smooth and comfortable in your hand. Find out more here...

Read the blog for further information...

Read our Journal here.

Sizing and bespoke

How do I choose the right size?

Our size guide shows you how to measure your dog and which size to choose. If your dog is between sizes, get in touch and I'll help you decide.

Can I order a collar or lead in a size or style you don't list?

Yes. Through my bespoke service I can make rope or leather pieces to your own measurements, and I'll do what I can to accommodate specific colours or requests.

How does a bespoke order work?

Send me an enquiry on the bespoke order page with details of your dog and what you're looking for. I'll come back to you with options and a price, and once you're happy I'll send you an invoice for a deposit. 

The balance is due when your piece is ready to post.

Do you offer engraving or personalisation?

Not at the moment, but it's something I'm currently working on.

Sign up to the mailing list to hear when it's available.

Ordering and delivery

How long will my order take to arrive?

Pieces marked as ready to ship are dispatched within 1 to 3 working days.

Bespoke and made-to-order products are made once you order and and will take up to two weeks before dispatch. 

All orders are sent by Royal Mail Tracked 24.

How much is delivery?

UK delivery is £5 or orders under £100, and free on orders over £100.

Do you deliver outside the UK?

At the moment, no, but if you are overseas and are keen then please get in touch and I will see what I can do.

Care

Can rope collars and leads get wet?

Yes, marine rope is made for water. It won't rot and dries quickly, so after a swim in the sea, rinse or wipe it down with a damp cloth and leave to air dry.

See our care instructions for more detail.

Can leather collars and leads get wet?

A bit of rain or a damp walk is fine. Just avoid leaving leather soaking or letting your dog swim in it regularly, as repeated soaking dries it out. If your dog loves the water, our rope collection is the better choice.

See our care instructions for more detail.

How often should I clean my collar and lead?

Whenever it needs it, usually after muddy walks, rather than on a fixed schedule. Leather also needs conditioning every few months, or sooner if it looks dry or feels stiff. Read the care instructions for more details on caring for your lead / collar.

Gifts, returns and trade

Do you offer gift sets or gift cards?

Yes. Matching collar and lead sets are in Bundles & Gift Sets, and gift cards are available if you'd like the recipient to choose for themselves.

Can I return or exchange my order?

Yes. You have 30 days from receiving your order to request a return. Items need to be unworn and unused, in their original packaging with tags, and you'll need your proof of purchase. To start a return, email hello@somadra.co.uk before sending anything back, as returns that haven't been requested first can't be accepted. Return postage is paid by you, so a tracked service is a good idea.

Once your return arrives and has been checked, your refund will go back to your original payment method within 10 business days. For an exchange, return the original item and place a new order for the one you'd like.

Sale items, gift cards, and bespoke or customised orders can't be returned. If your order arrives damaged, faulty or incorrect, get in touch straight away and I'll put it right. 

Do you sell wholesale?

Yes, I work with a small number of shops and stockists. Get in touch through the wholesale enquiry form and I'll send you details.