How durable is nubuck leather?

N-Marie

I am considering getting a pair of tall grey boots to complement my beloved brown tall boots. I have found a pair that appear to fit my needs (flat heel, well-reviewed, 13 inch shaft since I'm a shorty).
These are the contenders: http://www.zappos.com/eric-michael-mesa-grey

The one problem I forsee: they are nubuck, which looks like suede to me. These would be for MOTG use chasing a very active toddller, including trips to the playground/sandpits, stomping through wet and probably muddy grass when she decides to chase birds, etc. Will these get destroyed? I know suede is gorgeous but easily damaged- does anyone know if nubuck leather is the same? Any personal experience?

Many thanks!

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13 years ago

Shopping

6 replies

Latest reply was from N-Marie

Caro in Oz

Veteran

Suede is from the inside of the hide & nubuck from the outside (like leather). Nubuck is sanded to give it the velvety appearance. It is more durable than suede but not as much as leather. hope this helps:)

13 years ago

K. Period.

Veteran

Those are gorgeous! However... nubuck is a very fragile finish, in my experience. Grey is a good choice versus a lighter color. You'd have to be prepared to spray them weekly with waterproofing spray if you'll be anywhere near water. And they would likely get scuffs and gouges. A regular, flat leather finish would be a lot more durable.

13 years ago

Day Vies

Veteran

I had a pair or Timberland boots that had a nubuck finish. Nubuck does "scratch" but it's not in a damaging way it's like a patina. The first one does hurt your feelings but nubuck is intended to develop this kind of patina.

13 years ago

Ingunn

(website)

Veteran

I've had Clarks Chelsea booties in nubuck for two years now, and they don't show any wear at all. The color faded a little (they are black), but I bought a nubuck refresher which made them look like new again. I don't think there is anything to worry about as long as the quality is good in the first place.

13 years ago

missvee

Veteran

Ingunn is absolutely right - the quality of the leather, or suede or nubuck is what will determine its wearability. I don't know this brand but maybe others have some experience with it.

13 years ago

N-Marie

Veteran

Thanks for all your feedback. Sounds like it's a bit of a risk, but not absolute folly.... I may need to order and see in person whether the quality looks good

13 years ago

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