Suede & Nubuck
Is Nubuck Leather Durable? Strong Hide, Delicate Surface
Nubuck has a strong hide but a delicate surface. What scratches, stains and fades it, how it compares with suede and smooth leather, and how to care for it.
Yes, nubuck is a durable leather in structure: it is cut from the outer side of the hide, which makes it stronger and thicker than suede. Its weak point is the surface. Nubuck scratches easily, absorbs liquids fast and can fade in the sun, so it needs more care than smooth leather to keep looking good.
Part of our suede, nubuck and roughout guide.
Why the hide is strong
Nubuck is top-grain leather whose grain side has been sanded or buffed to a slight nap. It keeps the grain layer that suede lacks. A hide supplier credits its grain structure and tighter fibers for making it more durable than suede and better for everyday use.
Leather Collection says the same on its nubuck pages: nubuck is tougher than suede and suits a jacket you wear often.
Why the surface is fragile
In short, the leather lasts; the velvet look is what wears. Sanding also means nubuck no longer has a full, untouched grain. Full-grain leather, by definition, has none of its grain removed by buffing.
| Weak point | What happens | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Scratches | The soft nap scratches easily | – |
| Marks | Shows marks more easily than plain leather | – |
| Liquids | Absorbs them immediately and stains | – |
| Water drops | Darken it until it dries | – |
| Sun | Can fade | – |
| Wrong products | Regular leather cream can darken the surface | – |
Nubuck vs suede vs smooth leather
For the full buyer comparison, read nubuck vs suede.
| Column 1 | Nubuck | Suede | Smooth full-grain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hide strength | Stronger and thicker than suede | Less durable than full-grain | Whole grain kept |
| Surface | Scratches and marks easily | Stains easily | Develops a patina rather than wearing out |
| Water | Not waterproof unless treated | Absorbs liquids quickly | Can be wiped with a dry cloth |
Does water ruin nubuck?
Not usually. Water drops darken nubuck only temporarily; it dries to its original color. Neither nubuck nor suede is waterproof unless treated, so a water-repellent spray is recommended. If it gets wet, dry it on a hanger away from heat. The same logic applies to suede jackets: see can you wear a suede jacket in the rain?
How to make nubuck last
- Brush the nap now and then with a soft brush.
- Use a nubuck spray once or twice a year to help it resist water.
- Use products made for suede and nubuck; care-product makers sell separate ones because what suits one leather can harm another.
- Test any cleaner on a hidden spot first.
Step-by-step cleaning is on hosob's how to care for nubuck leather.
A nubuck jacket built for wear
The Leather Collection Brown Nubuck Cafe Racer Leather Jacket is 0.9-1.0 mm (about 0.04 in) nubuck cowhide with a water-resistant coating.
Related guides
- Comparing napped leathers for boots? See roughout vs suede.
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of nubuck leather?
It scratches and marks easily, absorbs liquids, can fade in sun, and costs more than suede.
Which is better, suede or nubuck?
For durability, nubuck, since it keeps the stronger outer layer. For the softest feel at a lower price, suede.
Can you put oil on nubuck?
Leather Collection advises against regular leather cream, which can darken nubuck. Use a product sold for suede and nubuck.
LeatherGuide Editorial Team
LeatherGuide articles are researched from published sources, cited in the text, and reviewed before publication.