July 02, 2024
What is nubuck leather?
Written by: Chris Fry
Ever stepped into a pair of shoes that magically felt comfortable right out of the box? Chances are, they were crafted from nubuck leather.
At Kizik, we're all about merging comfort with style, and nubuck is our secret ingredient. This type of leather endures long walks and keeps coming back for more—just like you.
Explore the world of nubuck and learn why this material might just be your wardrobe's new MVP.
What is nubuck?
Nubuck leather isn’t your everyday leather. It’s the top layer of the hide. It’s lightly sanded to create a texture as soft as velvet yet tougher than it looks. This unique finish gives nubuck its signature matte look: understated yet luxurious, subtle but attention-grabbing.
Nubuck also offers the resilience of full-grain leather with the plush comfort of suede. It’s a top pick for those who don’t compromise style or durability.
How is nubuck leather produced?
Turning a tough hide into nubuck isn’t easy. It starts with the finest quality leather; only the top grain makes the cut. Skilled artisans first sand down the outer layer, revealing a soft, napped surface that’s uniform and inviting. The nubuck takes on a soft texture that doesn’t compromise on durability.
Post-sanding, the nubuck is then dyed, transforming it from plain to vibrant or subdued, depending on the palette. The final step involves a careful finishing process that improves its resistance to water and stains.
This ensures nubuck leather offers more than just good looks but that it also stands the test of time.
What are the main characteristics of nubuck leather?
After exploring how nubuck leather is crafted, let's dig into the qualities that set it apart. Nubuck offers a suite of features that make it appealing and practical for a variety of uses:
Soft texture
Nubuck feels as soft as suede but is also plenty resilient. This leather gets its buttery smooth surface from gentle sanding, making it perfect for those who appreciate a little luxury in their daily outfits.
Tough durability
Don't let that soft exterior fool you. Nubuck is tough and, equipped to handle whatever your day throws its way. From a sudden sprint to catch the bus to an impromptu nature hike, nubuck keeps pace without ever looking worn out.
Breathes with you
On a hot day, nubuck stays cool and allows your skin to breathe. That means less of the sticky, sweaty aftermath that some shoes leave behind. It’s like having built-in air conditioning for your feet.
Long-lasting age
Instead of wearing out, nubuck wears in. With each adventure, it gains a patina that tells your story. A quick brush here and a dab of conditioner there keep it looking lived-in and loved.
Styling options
Whether you're hitting the office or the open road, nubuck will seamlessly go along. It dresses up and down, matching your energy and outfit with ease. Just what you want in a day-to-day companion.
Who should opt for nubuck leather in their shoes?
Wondering if nubuck leather is the right choice for you? Although anyone can appreciate the elegance and durability of nubuck, it shines brightest with the wardrobes that blend luxury and practicality.
Here’s who will love nubuck the most:
Adventurous souls
For those who never shy away from an impromptu hike or spontaneous city trip, nubuck offers the durability and comfort they need to take on the day without a second thought. Its ability to resist wear and adapt to different environments makes it ideal for an active lifestyle.
Style connoisseurs
Nubuck can be your wardrobe workhorse if you oscillate between business meetings and social gatherings. Its understated sophistication complements any outfit, ensuring you look put-together in any setting.
Practical minimalists
Nubuck can be a smart choice for those who prefer investing in only a few versatile wardrobe items. Its longevity and ability to age gracefully mean you’ll enjoy your favorite items for longer, minimizing the need to frequently replace them.
Eco-conscious consumers
If sustainability is as important to you as style, you’d love to know that nubuck is typically produced from responsibly sourced hides and uses less wasteful processes. It aligns with the values of those who prioritize environmental considerations in their purchasing decisions.
What are the best nubuck leather shoes?
Kizik believes in creating shoes that look and feel good. That's why we've poured our heart and soul into designing a range of nubuck leather shoes that blend style, comfort, and durability. If you're searching for footwear that meets your daily challenges while keeping you looking sharp, you've come to the right place.
The Milan
Stepping out in a pair of Milans boldly makes a statement all on its own.
Their genuine nubuck upper has a vintage charm that complements any wardrobe choice, ensuring you’re prepared for adventures ahead.
The Irvine
Elevate a classic outfit to a sublime one with the Irvine. Its nubuck leather accents and stretch canvas body bring a level of sophistication to your standard fare, perfect for those who appreciate a tailored edge.
The Sonoma
Embrace a blend of luxury and durability with the Sonoma. Its premium nubuck leather is crafted to support and cradle your feet through every part of your day while helping you look your best.
The Sydney
The Sydney offers a straightforward approach to style and comfort for go-getters. It’s the shoe that keeps up with your pace and ambitions, making it an essential part of the modern professional's wardrobe.
The Toronto
The Toronto combines the practicality of a Chelsea boot with sleek nubuck leather. It’s built to withstand the elements while maintaining a polished look that is ideal for any season.
The best part? All of the shoes we’ve just mentioned have dynamic hands-free tech.
How to extend the life of nubuck leather
Nubuck leather can stand the test of time—provided you know how to care for it properly. Here are some tips to maintain your nubuck leather footwear’s r charm and durability for years to come:
Gentle cleaning
Instead of waiting for dirt to accumulate, make a habit of a quick, gentle brush-down after every wear. This keeps the nubuck’s nap lively and prevents dirt from settling in.
Spot cleaning
Caught a stain? Spot clean with a specialized nubuck cleaner. Apply a small amount directly on the stain and use a nubuck brush to softly work it out. This targeted approach helps manage mishaps without soaking the entire piece.
Prep and protect
Before stepping out, give your nubuck a fighting chance against stains and spills with a protector spray. Our Shoe Care Kit comes with a Rain & Stain Guard that’s perfect for your needs. A quick spray now can save a lot of cleaning later.
Keep it cool and dry
After a long day out, let your nubuck items air out in a cool, dry place. Avoid heaters or direct sunlight, as this can dry out and crack the surface over time.
Regular refreshes
Give your nubuck a more thorough cleaning and conditioning session every couple of months. Try using our Cleaning Foam. It lifts dirt and restores the texture without the harshness of heavier products.
Stain guards
Reapply a stain guard every few months, especially if you wear your nubuck shoes a few times a week. This repels water and helps the nubuck resist tricky oil-based stains that can do serious damage.
Deal with deeper dents
For deeper stains or wear, consider a nubuck renovator. This product can rejuvenate nubuck’s color and texture. They’re often colored, so pick a renovator that matches your nubuck’s hue to ensure an even, vibrant finish.
Custom-fit care
If your nubuck shoes feel snug or stiff, use a shoe stretcher overnight with a mild stretching spray. This approach can gently expand the material without damaging the shoe's integrity.
Smart storage
When not in use, store your nubuck items with proper support. Shoe trees for footwear and padded hangers for jackets help maintain form and minimize creases.
Professional help
Sometimes, a professional touch can make all the difference. For high-value items or stubborn problems, a professional leather cleaner specializing in nubuck can provide deep cleaning, dye touch-ups, and more extensive repairs.
Step into comfort and strength
Nubuck leather’s understated elegance goes a long way. It blends the rugged endurance of top-tier hide with the buttery softness of suede. It's the go-to for anyone who values durability without sacrificing comfort or style.
Here at Kizik, we craft shoes that live up to the promise of nubuck's versatility. Whether you're sprinting through city streets or cruising through hallways, our slip-on shoes are designed to keep up with your fast-paced life.
So, why wait? Step into a pair of Kiziks and feel the difference every step of the way.
Sources:
Nubuck | The Cambridge English Dictionary
What is Sustainability? | UCLA