TYPES OF NATURAL LEATHER
If you’re thinking about buying a leather product but aren’t sure which type of leather to choose, this article is for you. Here, we’ll explain the different types of leather and what they actually mean.
Leather can be classified in two ways:
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by its origin
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by the way it’s processed and finished
In the first classification – by origin, meaning the type of animal – we can distinguish leathers such as cowhide, lamb, calf, goat, pigskin, and many others, including exotic varieties.
In the second classification – by processing method – the most well-known types are suede and full-grain leather. There is also nubuck, which combines features of both suede and full-grain.
Leather products need proper care. The fact that they’re made from high-quality leather doesn’t guarantee their longevity.
Natural leather categories by finishing process:
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Grain leather (or Grain leather)
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Suede
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Nubuck
Full-grain leather is the most recognizable type of genuine leather. It is made by processing the outer layer, known as the grain. This treatment gives the leather smoothness, shine, and durability. It’s easy to clean and doesn’t wear out quickly.
The highest grade of grain leather is full-grain leather. This means it retains its entire natural surface, along with its structure, pores, and minor imperfections. Over time, this type of leather develops a patina – a noble finish that adds depth and richness to its color.
The grain finishing gives the leather smoothness, shine, and durability. This type of leather is also easy to clean.
This type of leather is considered more elegant and luxurious thanks to the noble quality of the material and the properties it gains through this processing method.
Examples of grain leather:
Suede is a type of genuine leather made by sanding the underside of the hide, known as the flesh side. It’s most often sourced from animals such as deer, elk, moose, sheep, or reindeer. This processing method creates the characteristic 'nap' on the surface of the leather. Suede is soft to the touch, velvety, and delicate.
It requires careful maintenance and proper protection to preserve its appearance. Suede products should be avoided on rainy days, as the material easily absorbs moisture and doesn’t handle it well.
This processing method creates the characteristic 'nap' on the surface of the leather. Suede is soft to the touch, velvety, and delicate.
Suede is often used to make shoes, handbags, gloves, and decorative elements. Its softness and flexibility allow it to adapt perfectly to the shape of the foot or hand, providing a high level of comfort.
Nubuck is a type of leather that is often mistaken for suede because of its similar velvety surface. However, unlike suede, nubuck is made by gently sanding the outer surface of the hide, known as the grain. Nubuck is considered much more elegant and refined than suede.
Thanks to its durability and toughness, nubuck was originally used mainly in footwear designed for miners. Today, its most popular applications are luxury jackets and shoes.
Nubuck combines the advantages of grain leather and suede – it’s more durable than suede, yet softer and more elegant than grain leather.
Nubuck is more resistant to abrasion and mechanical damage than suede, making it a good choice for those looking for a more durable material. However, just like suede, nubuck requires regular care and waterproofing to maintain its qualities and attractive appearance.
Summary
Grain leather is more durable, resistant to dirt, and easier to maintain. Suede, on the other hand, is more delicate and requires careful care, but its softness and velvety texture add elegance and style to products. Nubuck is also worth considering, as it combines the benefits of both – it’s more durable than suede, yet softer and more refined than grain leather.
Classic beauty
Timeless elegance
Information
Company information
kontakt@mdotm.pl
P.P.H.U. Majkowski
NIP: 1250084257
05-270 Marki
Zygmuntowska 10A