Learn to differentiate between suede, split leather and nubuck

How are they alike? What is the difference between them?

Many people confuse suede with suede and nubuck, and it is not surprising, since there are certain similarities between the three. However, there are also a number of important differences. So, since it is not the same to buy one material or another, it is important to know how to distinguish them and be sure that we are acquiring the correct leather, the one we are looking for.

So, if you don't want to get caught in a poke, let's see what these three skin types are like. For this, the best thing will be that we define each one by its side to know what characterizes them.

Suede Leather

Buckskin, which is also known as chamois, or suede, comes mainly from elk, although today it is not the only animal from which it is extracted. It is also usually obtained from lamb, goat, calf or pig. Then, the leather that is used to obtain the final result is obtained from the internal part of the hide, which is marinated, tanned and sanded.

This type of leather is known for being very soft, thin, elegant and pleasant to the touch. Thus, it is usually used in the manufacture of delicate garments, such as gloves, upholstery, quality footwear, bags, accessories or linings.

split leather

Split Leather is obtained mainly from cattle.

It is sought in the lower layer of the skin, where it is mechanically divided. Then, it is offered a surface treatment, with which great resistance is achieved, since from its origin it does not have much of its own strength.

In this case, different qualities are obtained, which always depend on the part of the animal's skin, whether they are closer to the outside or less. So, if we achieve a fine texture, it means that it has been extracted from the outermost area, while the coarser, and which may seem less well cared for, is from the interior, which lowers its price but increases its resistance.

Its touch is velvety due to the sanding it receives during its tanning and it is highly appreciated in many sectors due to its resistance, such as gardening, foundries,...

Nubuck leather

Finally, we have nubuck, which is obtained from cattle, and whose main characteristic is an extremely fine sanding that is carried out on the top layer, to achieve the smoothest and most homogeneous texture.

In this way, a very aesthetic result is achieved, which is used both for footwear and for products of great daily use and wear. And it is that its beauty is also combined with a certain capacity to absorb dust and dirt.

Differences between these skins

We have already observed that each of the skins that interest us today have their own characteristics and are extracted from different animals, and even from different areas of the skin. Now, it is worth asking if this is so, why is it so difficult to differentiate them? Actually, it is not that complicated, you just have to be clear about how each one is and we will know which one we are facing.

For example, suede is very fine and soft, with a natural touch. It is usually used in high-end items. However, it is not very resistant, and it has its own unique way of care if we want to keep it in perfect condition. In addition, it is very aesthetic and elegant.

This is something that does not happen with split leather , which is much more resistant. Although it is visually beautiful, it does not reach the level of suede, but it is perfect to use in garments and daily articles, since it can withstand practically everything.

And among them we have nubuck , also fine and sophisticated, which shows a very soft touch due to the superficial polishing that is done during the treatment, so that the touch is pleasant and warm.

Obtaining each of these skins is another aspect to consider. When we refer to nubuck, we are talking about an extraction process in which what is known as the grain side, which is the outer part of the animal leather, is polished. This is the way to achieve that touch so fine and pleasant to the touch.

In his case, the suede is obtained in two different ways, or from the internal part.

Finally, split leather, as we have already seen, is the lower layer of the leather, and it is a breathable, strong material that is ideal for products for work and daily use.

If you want to know more details about the complete process of how the skins are tanned, you can see this other post where this process is explained in more detail. How are the skins tanned? Differences between vegetable tanning and chrome tanning.

Reasonable resemblances of these skins

These skins are included in many places under a common term, "bait." For what is this? It receives this name for various reasons, but the first and foremost is its polished surface. Although some may seem more polished than others, all these skins have this characteristic.

In addition, all three also have a very soft touch. In other words, they provide warmth, and they are materials that are touched with great pleasure and softness.

Finally, we must also add that with all of them a really beautiful appearance is achieved. That is to say, on an aesthetic level, they have similarities, and one of them is the image of quality that they all confer, so any garment or accessory will look very well made with excellent materials.

Now you know a little more about the world of leather, specifically about three of the most similar ones on the current market: split leather, nubuck and suede. However, now you will be able to distinguish them more easily.

To buy the best quality leather online, remember to go to La Tendeta del Cuero. We will advise you if you need help of any kind.