What is Nubuck Leather? Is Nubuck Leather Real Leather?

Nubuck leather has long been a familiar material in the fashion and interior industry. Do you know all the information about this material? Shondo will answer right in this article.

1. What is Nubuck Leather?

To understand Nubuck leather, we need to go back in time, to its origin and formation process.

1.1 Origin of Nubuck Leather

Nubuck leather is not a natural leather, but a product made from genuine leather, usually cowhide, calfskin or sheepskin. The difference lies in the surface treatment method.

Instead of keeping the outer layer intact like regular leather, Nubuck leather is created by sanding and polishing the outer surface to create a velvety smooth surface.

1.2 Identification Features

Nubuck leather has a smooth, silky surface, feels very soft and velvety to the touch. Therefore, the leather surface has short, tiny hairs, creating a color-changing effect when stroking in different directions.

Compared to other types, Nubuck leather is softer and more breathable. However, this also means that Nubuck is susceptible to water and stains.

2. Advantages and disadvantages of Nubuck leather

Of course, every material has its pros and cons and Nubuck is no exception.

2.1 Advantages

Softness and smoothness : This is the most outstanding advantage of Nubuck leather. When using products such as shoes, handbags or sofas, you will feel absolute comfort and relaxation.

Luxurious and sophisticated : Nubuck leather has a natural beauty. The surface with a color-changing effect when stroked by hand creates a unique look, attracting all eyes.

Breathable and absorbent: This helps users feel comfortable, reduces unpleasant odors, and is pleasant, especially on hot and humid days.

2.2 Disadvantages

Easily absorbs water and stains : Due to the surface having many tiny pores, Nubuck leather is very susceptible to water. If not properly protected, the product is easily stained and patchy.

Prone to Scratching : Although Nubuck leather is durable, its surface is prone to scratches compared to leathers with rough surfaces.

High cost : The material is more expensive due to the complex production process and higher quality requirements for raw leather.

3. Nubuck leather production stages

Nubuck leather production requires meticulousness, skill and high technique. From the initial raw leather, through the hands of skilled craftsmen, they are created with perfect beauty and quality.

Prepare raw leather:

• Leather selection: Manufacturers choose cow, calf, or sheep leather as the main material. In particular, they must ensure a certain thickness and softness.
• Check and process: This step is to remove defective skin, then clean, remove hair and impurities.

Tanning process:

• Rawhide conversion: This is the process of turning rawhide into leather with durable, anti-rot criteria.
• Tanning method: The manufacturer chooses the chrome tanning method for a quick and effective process. At the same time, this method also helps the leather to be durable and water-resistant.

Sanding and finishing:

• Creating a smooth surface: They use specialized machines and sandpaper to rub, creating the characteristic surface of Nubuck leather.
• Finishing: Finally, dyeing and coating with a protective layer to increase the durability and water resistance of the product.

4. Comparing Nubuck and Suede

Nubuck and suede are often confused because of their similar appearance. However, there are important differences between them that can be distinguished as follows:

4.1 Similarities

Both are the result of sanding the surface of genuine leather. They both have a velvet-like surface that is very soft to the touch. Nubuck and suede both have the effect of changing colors when you swipe your hand in different directions.

In addition, the ability to resist dirt is also identical. Users need to be careful and handle it properly if they want the product to have a longer life. Both have high aesthetics, bringing a luxurious and sophisticated beauty, so they are often used for fashion and interior products.

4.2 Differences

Origin : Nubuck leather is mostly made from cowhide. Meanwhile, suede is usually made from cow, sheep, and deer skin.

Durability : Nubuck leather is more durable than suede. Nubuck leather is also less prone to pilling and tearing than suede.

Water resistance : Nubuck leather is more water resistant because it retains part of the natural structure of the outer layer of leather. In contrast, suede is sanded from the inside, so the surface is more porous and easily absorbs water.

Price : Nubuck leather is more expensive than suede because it is made from higher quality leather and the production process is more complicated.

5. Applications of Nubuck leather in daily life

Up to now, Nubuck leather has been and is being used in cases such as:

5.1 In the field of garment manufacturing

Nubuck leather is widely used in the garment industry, especially in footwear production. The shoe lines provide a soft feeling while still ensuring high durability and luxury.

In addition, this leather line is also used to produce jackets, pants, skirts,... with unique fashion styles. The diversity of Nubuck colors has given designers more creative options.

5.2 Fashion accessories manufacturing

Similarly, this type of leather is also an ideal material for producing high-end fashion accessories such as handbags, leather wallets, belts, etc. Most of the products' surfaces are very leather wallets or belts made from Nubuck leather, which is popular for its durability and sophistication in every detail.

5.3 Interior decoration

No exception, Nubuck leather is increasingly widely used in the field of interior decoration. They bring customers many items that bring luxury, warmth and comfort to the living space.

At the same time, this leather line is also used to cover chairs, make pillows, carpets, creating a luxurious highlight for your home space.

6. Notes when using Nubuck leather

To keep Nubuck leather products durable and beautiful as new, you need to note the following important things during use and storage:

6.1 How to preserve leather

Avoid exposing the leather to direct sunlight for long periods of time. Sunlight can cause fading and drying of the leather. If not in use, store them in a dry place, away from moisture.

At the same time, you should use additional cloth bags and specialized boxes to avoid dust and scratches. You should also not let heavy objects press on them for a long time, because it can deform the leather.

6.2 How to clean Nubuck leather

Cleaning will not take much time. You should use a special brush to remove dirt on the surface. If it gets dirty, use a soft cloth and wipe gently.

For stubborn stains, use a specialized cleaning solution for Nubuck leather. Note that you should test on a small, hidden area of ​​leather before using on the entire product.

Never use harsh detergents, soaps, or bleach to clean Nubuck leather, as this may damage the leather.

6.3 Nubuck Skin Care Support Products

We should use specialized care products such as:

• Leather conditioner helps to hydrate, soften and restore natural shine.
• Leather protection solution creates a protective layer on the surface, helping to limit, prevent dirt and scratches.
• Water repellent spray protects Nubuck leather from water and moisture.

7. Answer related questions

7.1 Is Nubuck leather real leather?

Nubuck leather is 100% genuine leather made from the outer layer of animal skin such as cow, calf, sheep.

7.2 Is Nubuck leather waterproof?

Nubuck leather is not completely waterproof. Due to its porous surface, it can still absorb water if exposed for a long time.

8. Conclusion

Hopefully this article has provided you with useful information about Nubuck leather so you can be more confident in choosing and using this premium material in your daily life.