Explainers
Stacks blockchain
May 15, 2025
Disclaimer: 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
