What is Nubuck Leather? A Simple Guide to This Luxurious Material

Key Takeaways:

• Nubuck is top-grain leather sanded for a velvety feel.
• It is durable due to its top-grain origin, but its open-pore nature requires careful maintenance to prevent stains and scratches.
• Nubuck's aesthetic appeal makes it popular for high-end items like footwear, furniture, and clothing.

Leather isn't just leather. There are distinctions based on everything from the animal it comes from to how it's tanned, dyed, and finished. And let's not forget the leather grading! So, if you have ever felt lost trying to understand terms like 'nubuck,' you're definitely not the only one. 

Nubuck leather is a popular material used in high-end fashion, furniture, and accessories, but it’s often misunderstood. Let’s break it down in simple terms to answer all your questions about this unique leather.  

What is Nubuck Leather?  

Nubuck leather is real leather. But it’s been treated differently to give it the quintessential soft, velvety texture. The term “nubuck” comes from the word “new buck,” referring to the process of creating this material. Historically, hides from deer, particularly younger deer, were used in the early production of this type of leather. Nubuck leather is now commonly made from cowhide or calfskin.   

The defining characteristic of nubuck is its velvet like finish, which is achieved by sanding or buffing the top-grain side of the leather, which is basically the outer layer of the animal skin. The sanding process creates short protein fibers that make it durable and high-quality but with a unique finish and a slight nap.  

How is Nubuck Leather Made?  

Nubuck leather starts as full-grain leather, which is the highest quality leather you can get. The top grain portion is sanded or buffed to create a suede-like rough surface. Unlike suede, which is made from the inner layer of the hide, nubuck is made from the outer side. This gives it more strength and durability while keeping it incredibly soft to the touch with a consistent appearance.  

Nubuck Leather vs Full-Grain Leather  

If you are wondering what’s the difference between nubuck leather and full-grain leather, here’s the deal.

Full-grain leather is the purest form of leather. It is not sanded or coated with any pigment or polymers, like pigmented or bicast leather. Full grain is incredibly strong and durable, and develops a beautiful patina over time.  

Nubuck leather, on the other hand, is full-grain leather that’s been sanded on the outer surface. This gives it a softer, more luxurious feel but makes it slightly less resistant to scratches and water. 

Both are high-quality materials, but Nubuck is often chosen for its unique texture and aesthetic appeal. Learn more about the variety of leather textures here.

Nubuck vs Suede Leather  

Nubuck and suede are often confused, due to the comparable velvety nap, but they are not the same. Nubuck is made from the top grain of the hide and has a finer, more velvety texture. Whereas suede is made from the inner layer of the hide, making it softer but less durable.  

Nubuck is generally more expensive and durable than suede, making it a popular choice for premium products.  

Quality and Durability of Nubuck Leather  

Nubuck leather is known for its high quality. It is made from the top-grain layer of the hide, which is the strongest and highest-quality part. This inherently gives it a foundation of quality. However, its soft surface can be prone to scratches and stains, so it requires a bit more care than other types of leather.  

Breathability, Softness, and Water Resistance  

Nubuck leather is breathable (thanks to the open-pore structure), making it comfortable to wear in shoes or jackets. Also, its velvety texture makes it one of the softest leathers available.  

Nubuck isn’t naturally water-resistant and can get wet. If it gets wet, it can stain or lose its texture. Always use a protective spray to guard against moisture to make your nubuck leather product last longer.  

Advantages of Nubuck Leather  

1. Luxurious Feel: Nubuck is incredibly soft and comfortable.  
2. Durability: It’s stronger than suede and many other leather types.  
3. Breathable: Perfect for footwear and clothing.  
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Its unique texture adds a touch of elegance to any product, making it a popular choice for bespoke leather jackets, coats, and boots.   

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Disadvantages of Nubuck Leather  

1. Stains Easily: Nubuck can absorb liquids and oils, leading to stains.  
2. Scratches: Its soft surface is prone to scratches and scuffs.  
3. Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning and protection to maintain its appearance.  

Uses of Nubuck Leather  

Nubuck leather is versatile and used in a variety of products, including:  

• Footwear: Boots, sneakers, and loafers.  
• Bags and Accessories: Handbags, hats, wallets, and belts.  
• Furniture: Sofas, chairs, and ottomans.  
• Clothing: Jackets, skirts, and gloves.  

How to Maintain Nubuck Leather?  

To make sure your nubuck leather product keeps looking its best, proper care is necessary. Clean it regularly using a soft brush or eraser to remove dirt and stains, followed by a slightly damp cloth. I highly recommend applying a nubuck-specific protective spray to guard against water and stains. If it gets wet, blot it gently with a clean cloth and let it air dry.

Store nubuck leather products properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

FAQs  

What is Nubuck Leather Made From?  

Nubuck leather is made from the top grain of animal hides, usually from cows.  

What are the Pros and Cons of Nubuck Leather?  

Luxurious feel, durability and breathability are the biggest advantages of nubuck leather. But it is prone to stains and scratches, requiring maintenance.  

How to Clean a Nubuck Leather Sofa?  

Use a soft brush or eraser to remove dirt, then apply a nubuck cleaner. Finish with a protective spray or nubuck-specific leather conditioner.  

What is the Difference Between Nubuck Leather and Suede?  

Nubuck is made from the outer layer of the hide, while suede comes from the inner layer. Nubuck is more durable and has a finer texture.  

Is Nubuck Leather Durable?  

Yes, it is durable but requires proper care to maintain its quality.  

What Happens if Nubuck Leather Gets Wet?  

Nubuck leather, if wet, can stain or lose its texture. Blot it gently and let it air dry if it gets wet.  

Conclusion  

Nubuck leather is a luxurious, high-quality material that is perfect for those who appreciate softness and elegance. While it requires a bit more care than other leathers, its unique texture and durability make it worth the effort. Whether you are buying nubuck leather boots, shoes, a jacket, or a sofa, you are investing in a material that is both stylish and long-lasting.  

With the right care, your nubuck leather items can last for years and only get better with age.