What is nubuck leather?
Reading time: 4 min | Last updated: 11 December 2025
Leather has been used for centuries – and for good reason. It’s versatile, durable, and always in style. Over the years, many different types of leather have been developed, each with its own unique qualities. One of the most popular? Nubuck leather. And it’s not hard to see why! Known for its soft texture and luxurious appearance, nubuck has become a firm favourite in footwear. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what nubuck leather actually is, how it’s made, and – of course – the beautiful shoes that come from it.
What is nubuck leather?
Nubuck is a type of leather that has been lightly sanded or buffed on the grain side – that’s the outer side of the hide – to create a soft, velvety finish. Because it’s made from the outer layer, nubuck is both strong and durable. The sanding process gives it that beautiful texture, while maintaining the toughness of premium leather. After some expert craftsmanship, this soft nubuck is transformed into stunning shoes. Tempted? Go on – treat yourself to a pair of nubuck shoes!
Where does the name 'nubuck' come from?
It’s believed that ‘nubuck’ comes from the phrase “new buck” – possibly referring to a new way of treating buckskin by sanding or polishing the surface. Others say it’s because young deer hides were originally used.
Whatever the true origin, nubuck leather really took off in the early 20th century. This newly discovered method of creating soft, luxurious leather quickly became popular in the fashion world – and it still is today, especially in footwear.
What makes nubuck special?
Nubuck leather has a few standout features that make it such a sought-after material:
1 | Texture & appearance
Its most recognisable feature is the soft, velvet-like surface, created by gently buffing one side of the leather.
2 | Strength & durability
Made from the top layer of the hide, nubuck retains the toughness of real leather. At Wolky, that’s a big plus – perfect for durable, long-lasting shoes.
3 | Breathability
Like all leather, nubuck allows air to circulate and moisture to escape – helping keep sweaty feet at bay. (Still struggling with sweaty feet? We’ve got tips for that too!)
Nubuck shoes by Wolky
Crafted from high-quality nubuck leather, these shoes are made to last – and look great doing it.
The benefits of nubuck leather
- Luxurious, stylish appearance
- Softer than standard leather – feels wonderfully comfy
- Durable and long-lasting (with the right care!)
- Breathable – ideal for all-day wear
The downsides of nubuck leather
- Susceptible to stains and discolouration from moisture and sunlight
- Needs regular care and the right cleaning products
- Prone to scratches if not looked after properly
- Typically more expensive than synthetic alternatives
Keeping your nubuck shoes looking great
To enjoy your nubuck shoes for as long as possible, regular care is a must. That means cleaning, brushing, and protecting them. We get it – shoe care might not be your favourite chore, but with our step-by-step guide to caring for nubuck, it’s quick and easy.
And the best part? A good spray goes a long way. Regularly applying a protective spray keeps dirt and moisture at bay – meaning less time cleaning and more time enjoying your shoes. Win-win!
Nubuck vs suede – what's the difference?
They’re often mixed up, and fair enough – they do look quite similar. But there are a few key differences:
1 | How they’re made
Nubuck is made from the outer layer of the hide, while suede comes from the inner side.
2 | Durability
Because nubuck comes from the tougher outer layer, it’s more resistant to wear than suede. Suede may feel softer, but it’s also more delicate – and requires a different cleaning process.
3 | Appearance
Both have a soft texture, but nubuck tends to look finer and more refined, while suede often has a slightly rougher finish due to the inner layer being used.
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These shoes are of excellent quality. With proper care, they'll stay beautiful for a long time – sustainable for the planet and smart for your wallet. Our maintenance tips: