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Explainers

Stacks blockchain

May 5, 2025

Leather does not operate the Stacks blockchain. Users are responsible for understanding how it works before interacting with associated assets and apps. Stacks is a permissionless public blockchain. Leather does not run it or guarantee uptime or performance.

The Stacks blockchain is a Bitcoin Layer 2 that enables smart contracts, DeFi, NFTs, and more — all while settling transactions on Bitcoin.

Stacks does not modify Bitcoin itself. Instead, it runs in parallel and uses a mechanism called Proof of Transfer (PoX) to anchor blocks to Bitcoin. This gives developers the ability to build advanced applications while still benefiting from Bitcoin’s unmatched security and finality.

Key Features

  • Smart contracts: Written in Clarity, a predictable and secure language designed for blockchain logic
  • Bitcoin settlement: All Stacks activity settles on Bitcoin every block
  • STX token: Used for gas fees, Stacking (to earn BTC), and interacting with apps
  • Scalable and modular: Built for Bitcoin-native apps without changing the Bitcoin base layer

Stacks + Leather

Leather is built to work directly with the Stacks blockchain. You can:

  • Hold and send STX and SIP-10 tokens
  • Connect to apps built on Stacks
  • Participate in Stacking and sBTC rewards to earn BTC and other tokens
  • Explore emerging Bitcoin DeFi protocols powered by Stacks