Suede boot and nubuck boot with a brush and eraser bar

Suede vs nubuck

Both have a soft nap. They come from different sides of the leather.

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Suede

Leather Naturally defines suede as the flesh side of the leather, or split leather. It says the fibers tend to be longer.

Nubuck

Nubuck is leather whose top surface has been buffed to a soft, velvet-like touch. It often has a visible nap.

Cleaning suede and nubuck

One boot maker's guide says to use an eraser bar on dirty areas, let the leather dry, and then brush to restore the nap.

Conditioning

The same maker says most of its roughout and nubuck leathers do not need conditioning, and that mink oil darkens leather.

Protector

The maker suggests a protector spray, misted from six to eight inches.

Sources: Leather Naturally, Leather Terminology; Red Wing, Roughout Leather Care Guide. Brand names belong to their owners. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by them.

FAQ

Can suede get wet?

Follow your boot maker's guidance, and let it dry away from heat.

Is suede leather?

Yes, per Leather Naturally, it is the flesh side or split of the leather.

General information only. Follow the boot maker's care instructions and the directions on any care product. Test a product on a hidden spot first, because some products can darken leather.

Leather boots beside a brush and cloth on a walnut bench

How to clean leather boots

Brush, wipe, and dry.

Two leather offcuts showing different surfaces

Full grain vs top grain

The grain words, plainly.

Tan boots drying on a wooden rack with rain outside

Wet boots and salt stains

Dry slowly, away from heat.

How leather is made