What is the difference between nubuck leather and suede leather?

What is the difference between nubuck leather and suede leather?

Finding the right type of leather to make a great product can be difficult, since there are so many different options on the market. Recently, more and more people started using suede and nubuck leather, and both of them are an incredible option. While leather shops offer both options, you do want to know what’s the difference between these materials, and which one is ideal for you. Let’s find out right away.

What is nubuck leather?

Nubuck leather is leather made from outside the animal hide. This means it’s thicker and more durable. It lasts for a long time, and the best part is that it withstands scuffing, especially when compared to the regular suede leather. Historically, nubuck leather used elk or deer buckskin. That’s not the case anymore, as modern nubuck is mainly made of cow skins. This is great because it’s very soft, and it can be buffed or sanded in order to offer a better look and quality.

The fact that it’s made from outer hide, this means it will have some imperfections. While that gives it character, at the same time manufacturers tend to sand this very well and dye it properly. That brings incredible visuals and an extremely high quality. Generally, nubuck leather comes with a higher price point since the leather itself is more durable. Unfortunately, this type of leather doesn’t develop any patina.

 

Vegetable Tanned Nubuck Leather

 

What is suede leather?

Suede leather is made from the animal’s skin underside. It’s very delicate and soft, not to mention pliable and lightweight as well. The underside is sanded and that means it’s supple and thinner when compared to regular leather. You also have less durability because of that.

One thing to consider about suede leather is that it’s not waterproof. As a result, you can deal with some rather significant water damage if you’re not careful, which is something to consider here.   However, you can find waxed suede that offers great flexibility and texture, as well as waterproofing characteristic. Many handbag producers use suede leather for their handbag lining which give luxury soft hand feel to the customers.

Plaid Suede Foil Processed Italian Goatskin 

 

Which is the better option?

It all depends on what you need. Suede leather is very soft and light since it’s made from the underside of the animal skin. It’s not as durable as nubuck. If you want something a bit tougher and more durable, you can go with the nubuck leather. The truth is that both of them are viable shoe leather options, it mostly comes down to the features you are interested in and use cases. But generally, you can buy any of them and you will have an incredible experience!

Taking care of suede and nubuck leather

The first thing you want to do is to brush your leather product often. These leather options are known to trap a lot of dirt with ease. In addition, using a waterproof spray can help you protect leather with great ease. Generally, proper cleaning and maintenance will be more than enough.  

 

Where to buy suede and nubuck leather

There are many leather shops that offer suede and nubuck leathers. You can visit the leather store near you to choose their selection.  However, if you live far from the shop, you can choose a more convenient option of buying leather online.  At bestleatheronline.com, there are many different types of suede and nubuck leather selections and color to choose from for your leather project. 

Bestleatheronline.com is the online leather that offer the largest selection of leather of the great quality in the market.  They all come at the great price and satisfaction guarantee.  Visit the online store today and get your first order discount!