Types of Leather Explained

Leather can look and feel very different. Besides the origin of the leather, its processing largely determines whether a smooth, velvety, or distinctly structured surface is created. Here, we present the most important types of leather for shoes and their typical characteristics.

Smooth Leather, Nubuck, or Suede – What's the Difference?

With leather, a distinction is made between the origin of the material and its surface treatment. Calf, cow, goat, or deer leather refer to the animal species. Smooth leather, nubuck leather, and velour leather, on the other hand, describe how the leather surface has been processed.

Smooth leather has a closed, smooth to finely grained surface and can appear matte or slightly shiny depending on its finish.

Nubuck leather is finely sanded on the grain side, creating its characteristic velvety and matte surface.

Velour leather is sanded on the flesh side and has a soft, more open fiber structure. Colloquially, it is often referred to as suede.

Which leather suits which shoe?

The type of leather used depends on the desired look, construction, and function of the shoe. Soft leathers, for example, are particularly suitable for supple moccasins, while sturdier leathers can give a shoe more structure.

Not only the type of leather is crucial, but also the quality and careful selection of the material. You can find out how Sioux selects its leathers and what requirements we place on them under [Our Leathers].

Types of leather at a glance: