What kind of material is a nubuck?

Of all the materials presented to us today, Nubuk is one of the few remaining natural materials. It does not make it better or worse - everyone has advantages and disadvantages. Of the nubuck today produced a huge number of products: from shoes and ending with accessories and outerwear. Observing certain rules for care, you can keep your favorite thing in good condition for a long time.

What is a natural nubuck?

Most often, a nubuck is confused with suede. These two materials are really very similar, however, only at first glance. There are five main differences between suede and nubuck:

  1. Raw material . For the production of suede, elk or deer skin is used, and for nubuck - cattle.
  2. Tanning method . Zamshu treated with fat, and nubuck - chrome.
  3. The length of the pile . In suede, he is taller, with a nubuck - shorter and lower.
  4. Resistance to external influences . At this point, suede bypasses the nubuck - it is more wear-resistant, it can be safely cleaned in warm soapy water, while nubuck requires a more careful attitude.
  5. Material characteristics . Suede is softer and more viscous, nubuck is firmer and tougher.

Other types of nubuck

Besides the natural material of animal origin, the nubuck, like much today, is artificial. It is made from synthetic raw materials, although in appearance it resembles a natural one. It is characterized by greater wear resistance, does not pick up moisture, but does not allow air to pass through.

Another option is the modern development of manufacturers - Nubuk-Oil. It is still the same natural nubuck, only treated with moisture-proof means. To the touch, it is slightly moist, and, like artificial, it is more resistant to external influences than an ordinary nubuck.

Nubuck shoes: pros and cons

Partly about them has already been said in the previous paragraph. Of the merits of nubuck: lightness, excellent air permeability, strength. Due to the short length of the pile, it is not prone to mashing, like suede. The main drawback is his delicacy. Nubuck is much more than leather or suede, prone to contamination and salting. He is afraid of moisture, he must be cleaned only with special means. Shoes from Nubuk ideally should be bought immediately with water repellent spray.

Nubuck Shoes

Women's shoes from the nubuck - an excellent option for dry demi-season weather. Can have a wedge, a small heel or a hairpin. Some manufacturers combine nubuck with leather, for example, on the toe. In addition to the original appearance, it also helps to keep the shoes in good condition, because the soiled leather socks are easily cleaned with a sponge.

Nubuck sneakers are a cute relatively new invention of designers. They represent a "refined" sports shoes, which, thanks to the nubuck, fits perfectly into the urban casual style . Can look like running shoes, sneakers, "superstars" or any other model. However, in the models for sports, nubuck inserts are also very common.

Among the boots from the Nubuk leadership holds, perhaps, shoes brand Timberland. The characteristic red color, on the laces, just above the ankle - this model is easily recognized on the streets of the city. Their popularity they deserve just fine resistance to off-season weather conditions: the thick sole reliably protects the foot, patented treatment prevents contamination for a long time. In other brands there are different models: more feminine, stylized as biker or classic conservative.

Designers and botilons from the Nubuk did not bypass the side. Stable heels combined with visual velvety fabric make shoes practical and suitable for a large number of images.