We are using a lot of Nubuck leather in our shoes and just love the look and feel of it. We use only the finest Italian nubuck made from calfskin. The more you wear it, the softer the leather gets while moulding around your feet. We use two different nubucks in our shoes, a smooth nubuck and a nubuck that is finished with a printed stamp called ‘oregon’, which gives it more texture and character. But what is nubuck? How is it made, and what makes it so great? How do you treat Nubuck and what is the difference between Nubuck and Suede? Read on and you will find the answers to those questions.
Nubuck is a type of leather that is made from the top grain of a cowhide. It is a high-quality material that is known for its durability, softness, and luxurious feel. Nubuck is made by sanding the outer layer of a cowhide to create a velvety texture. This process also removes any imperfections or blemishes in the leather, resulting in a smooth, even surface.
Read on to find out more about:
- Nubuck quality
- Advantages of Nubuck
- Disadvantages of Nubuck
- How to clean Nubuck
- What is the difference: Nubuck vs Suede
Nubuck quality
The quality of nubuck leather is determined by the type of cowhide used, as well as the thickness and density of the leather. Italian nubuck is particularly sought-after due to the high quality of the cowhide used in production, as well as the skill and craftsmanship of Italian leatherworkers.
Advantages of Nubuck
One of the key advantages of nubuck is its unique look and feel. The velvety texture of nubuck gives it a distinctively soft and supple feel, making it a popular choice for luxury footwear, bags, and other accessories. Nubuck also has a natural matte finish that gives it a casual yet sophisticated look, making it suitable for a wide range of styles and occasions.
Another advantage of nubuck is its durability. Because it is made from the top grain of the leather, it is stronger and more resistant to wear and tear than other types of leather. This makes it a popular choice for items that are subjected to frequent use, such as shoes or bags.
Disadvantages to Nubuck
However, there are also some disadvantages to nubuck. Because of its porous nature, nubuck is more susceptible to staining and water damage than other types of leather. It is also more difficult to clean and maintain than other materials, and requires special care to keep it looking its best.
How to clean Nubuck
To clean nubuck, it is important to use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any dirt or debris from the surface. For more stubborn stains, a specialized nubuck cleaner can be used. It is important to avoid using water or other liquids on nubuck, as this can cause it to become stained or damaged.
The best way to avoid having to clean any stains is to prevent your nubuck from staining. It’s best to treat it before wearing. To treat nubuck, a specialized silicone free nubuck protector can be used to help repel water and stains. It is also important to avoid exposing nubuck to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause it to fade or become discoloured.
What is the difference: nubuck vs suede
Finally, it is important to note the difference between nubuck and suede. While they may look similar, suede is made from the inner layer of the leather, and is therefore softer and more delicate than nubuck. Suede is also more susceptible to water damage and staining than nubuck, and requires even more careful maintenance and cleaning.
Nubuck is typically more expensive than suede because of the way it is made. Nubuck is made by sanding the top layer of a cowhide to create a velvety texture. This process involves a significant amount of labor and skill, as well as specialized equipment and materials.
In contrast, suede is made by splitting the inner layer of a cowhide, which is a simpler and less time-consuming process. Suede also tends to be thinner and less durable than nubuck, which can impact its overall quality and value.
Additionally, the type of cowhide used to make nubuck is often of a higher quality than the cowhide used to make suede. This is particularly true for Italian nubuck, which is made from the highest quality cowhide and is known for its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Overall, the combination of the labor-intensive production process, high-quality materials, and superior craftsmanship make nubuck a more expensive material than suede. However, many people feel that the unique look and feel of nubuck is worth the extra cost.
In conclusion, nubuck is a high-quality material that is prized for its unique look and feel, as well as its durability and strength. While it requires special care and maintenance, the benefits of nubuck make it a popular choice for luxury footwear, bags, and other accessories. Take a look at our Mario Low sneakers in Nubuck, they are one of our customers’ favorites.
