What is Nubuck Leather? (Nubuck vs Suede)

Have you ever gone to a store to buy shoes or jackets and wondered about nubuck and suede? Do not worry. Here, you will learn where nubuck comes from, what it is used for, its advantages, and disadvantages, and how to take care of it. So continue reading to know more about it.

What Refers to Nubuck Leather?

Nubuck is a type of leather that has been softly brushed to make it feel nice. It is different from suede, which is fuzzy, and smooth leather which is shiny. Taking care of nubuck leather is important to keep it looking nice and lasting a long time.

  1- Nubuck has a smooth and soft finish that feels strong and gentle.
  2- Most nubuck is made from young cows, goats, or deer skins.
  3- The rawhide is placed on a spinning wheel to make nubuck, with rough   bristles or sandpaper. As the wheel turns, it will gently rub the hide, creating a   soft leather texture that looks like it has been through a light storm.
  4- Nubuck adds a nice look and feel while being tough thus it is commonly used   for boots, bags, jackets, and sofas around the world.

How Nubuck Leather is Made?

Nubuck leather is made from the top layer of calfskin, cowhide, or goatskin which is strong and durable. Unlike suede, which is made from the inner layer, nubuck is sanded and buffed to smooth out any marks and make it look nice. This sanding creates a soft and velvety texture. To cover any remaining flaws on the surface, the leather is stained or dyed. This process gives Nubuck a consistent and attractive appearance while keeping its toughness.

Quality 

Nubuck is made from the top layer of animal skin which makes it stronger and tougher than suede. It is also tougher than bi-cast leather or bonded leather which are made from lower quality pieces of skin. However, the nubuck can get dirty and stained more easily because it has a rough surface.

Appearance

Nubuck leather feels soft and has a velvety look because it is brushed or sanded. It can be dyed in any color. However, it can be scratched easily. When you rub the surface, the color might change because the short fibers move in different directions. With time and use, nubuck can also develop a special look called patina.

Durability

If you are not sure whether to pick nubuck or suede, keep in mind that nubuck is tougher. Nubuck comes from the outer layer of the leather thus it is stronger. It can handle everyday use without looking old. While it can get scratched easily, it will still stay in good shape for a long time.

Advantages of Nubuck Leather

Nubuck leather has many good qualities that make it a great choice. It comes from high-quality leather thus it is strong, comfortable, and lasts a long time. It does not need a lot of care like other leathers because it has a soft and velvet-like feel. Also, it is more breathable than fake (synthetic) leather and looks great on all types of products. Other good things about Nubuck leather include:

Softness: Nubuck leather is very soft and comfortable to wear. It gets its softness from the way it is made and the type of leather used. During production, the hide is sanded to create short protein fibers that add both durability and softness.

Maintenance: Nubuck does not need as much care as other leathers. You do not need to polish it often to keep it looking nice.

Breathability: Nubuck leather is comfortable as it allows air to flow better as compared to other synthetic materials.

Disadvantages of Nubuck Leather

Nubuck leather has some downsides also but its benefits are greater. It can get dirty easily as grime, oil, and dust can leave stains. This means you will need to be careful when wearing Nubuck items outside since they can get marked up. For example, a Nubuck leather jacket should not be worn in muddy parks or nature areas. Also, when Nubuck gets wet, it tends to darken but returns to its original color once dry. While this is not a major issue, some people might find it bothersome. Overall, Nubuck requires special care to keep it looking good especially when exposed to dirt or moisture.

Products Nubuck is Commonly Used For

Nubuck is a type of leather that is used for many items like shoes, jackets, wallets, bags, furniture, and so on. It is popular for making jackets and shoes. Because of its stylish history, nubuck is used in both luxury and everyday products.

When it comes to nubuck leather jackets, the best part is that they offer breathability which makes them perfect for sports and other physical activities. They are very comfortable to wear even during tough activities. Nubuck leather jackets might be a bit costlier but they enhance your style and show off your personality which makes them a great addition to your wardrobe.

How Can You Care for Nubuck?

Taking care of nubuck is quite easy. Below given are the steps to follow.

  1- Use a special brush made for nubuck to clean it.
  2- Firstly, wipe off dirt with a damp cloth.
  3- Then, let it dry completely.
  4- Once it is dry, use the brush to clean the nubuck well.
  5- Try to keep nubuck away from water and moisture.
  6- If it gets wet, let it dry in a cool and dry place.
  7- Every two to three weeks, you can use a conditioner to keep the nubuck soft.

Following these steps will help keep your nubuck in good condition.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a nice leather item that is comfortable and easy to maintain, nubuck is a good choice. It has a soft and velvety feel. However, be careful because water, oil, and mud can leave stains on it. If your budget is low, you can go with suede also. Keep in mind that both materials require careful cleaning to keep them looking good. Choose the one that suits your style and budget best.