Do you know what is nubuck leather? Nubuck leather is the type of leather that has uses for a wide variety of leather products. It’s an excellent leather and typically of high quality.
Its attributes and finer qualities are a blend of those from various types of leather.
Ever wondered what the distinctions between nubuck, suede, and leather were when you went to a store to buy a pair of shoes? Don’t worry; you’ll soon understand the origins of nubuck, its applications, and how to maintain it.
What is Nubuck Leather?
Nubuck leather is a kind of leather made from the top grain of the hide.
Although more durable, nubuck has a similar feel to suede. It is utilized for a wide range of products and has an excellent appearance and feel.
Some of the more desirable characteristics of the various leather types are gathered together in it.
Read More: What is Canvas?
How Nubuck Leather is Made?
The making of the Nubuck Leathers historically comes from buckskin of deer or elk. These kinds of animal hides were widely used in the American market at the start of the 1930s. Initially, this kind of leather was not very successful or popular.
The Nubuck style and look was only introduced by the Duke of Windsor during his royal visit that the leather really took off. Many people were drawn to the nubuck leather oxfords that the Duke was sporting.
Another story is how the nubuck leather is actually produced. The traditional material for this kind of leather was buckskin, but some people now use calfskin as a more convenient option. There is a surplus of calfskin and it is simple to obtain.
The outer layer of the calfskin is used by leather producers to create nubuck. It’s important to note that the outer layer they’re using is top-grain or full-grain. Its high quality is indicated by this.
Following that, the skin’s exterior is sanded. The leather now has a velvet-like finish as a result. Because it is more durable than the inner part, we use the skin’s outer layer. Along with being more resilient, it is also the outer layer.
Nubuck is logically more durable than suede because of this. Additionally, it explains why suede costs less and nubuck costs more.
For more information, the inner layer is what gives suede its distinctive look. Nubuck, on the other hand, is made of the outer layer. Additionally, because nubuck is sanded from the outside, it might have some aesthetic flaws.
While some prefer to leave the imperfection because it gives the leather “character” some also choose to hide it away. The leather is frequently dyed or stained by the manufacturers to cover up these flaws.
Advantages of Nubuck
Because Nubuck is made from top-grain leather, it is long-lasting and relatively durable. Additionally, it breathes better than leather bonded with synthetic coats and synthetic leathers.
No matter what product it is used in, it looks great in addition to being comfortable. In contrast to some other types of leather, it doesn’t need to be polished or shined.
Because of its velvety surface, which only needs the occasional cleaning, it needs less maintenance than many other types of leather.
Disadvantages of Nubuck
One of the downsides of nubuck is that it’s not suitable for applications where its surface will be exposed to mud, dirt and grit.
It darkens when wet, but it returns to its original color when dried. Care must be taken when wearing it outside because oils and other dirt can stain the nubuck.
This flaw is not present in other goods made from premium leather.
How to Care for Nubuck?
Caring for Nubuck is fairly simple. All you need is a unique cleaning brush made specifically for your type of nubuck. Prior to using the brush to thoroughly clean the surface, remove all surface dirt, possibly using a damp cloth.
If the nubuck does get wet, let it dry in a cool, dry place even though water and humidity should be avoided whenever possible. To keep it supple, you can use a conditioning product every two to three weeks if necessary.
Leather Vs Nubuck Vs Suede
Although they can also be made from the hide of an animal such as a sheep, lamb, cow, calf, goat, or deer, nubuck and suede are typically made of leather like calfskin.
While they initially appear and feel the same, as previously seen, they were actually created and treated in different ways.
Sanding is used to create both of these leathers; suede and nubuck are sanded from the inside and outside, respectively.
Due to this distinction, nubuck and suede have very different price ranges, with suede being the more affordable option.
It’s crucial to choose the appropriate brush for each type of suede or nubuck when caring for them. A nubuck brush used on suede will ruin the nap because nubuck is a harder material than suede.
On the other hand, nubuck will receive little to no benefit from the use of a suede brush.
Many people think suede shoes are more expensive and difficult to maintain than their shiny leather counterparts. Nothing could be further from the truth than this. Actually less upkeep is needed for suede and nubuck.
Say goodbye to the weekly shoe-shining task; these shoes neither require nor should ever require shining.
Final Words on What is Nubuck Leather
If you’re seeking a comfortable leather product that is easy to care for and looks great for any occasion, nubuck leather is a possible option.
But be aware that this product’s velvety surface is susceptible to stains from water, oil, and mud. Consider suede leather if you’re looking for a comparable option at a slightly lower cost.
FAQs about What is Nubuck
What is Nubuck Leather Made Of?
Nubuck is now most frequently made from calfskin, which gives it its incredibly soft texture. Historically, it was made from deer or elk.
Is Nubuck Leather Waterproof?
It is not waterproof.
What Animal is Nubuck Leather From?
Nubuck leather is made from cows’ skin.
