Is Nubuck Leather Waterproof? 4 Best Ways to Do it
Are you looking for a leather material that is durable and comfortable? Nubuck leather may be the perfect option for you.
Nubuck leather is a form of leather that is made from the top grain of the leather hide. It is sanded to create a soft, velvety texture. It is not waterproof but rather water-resistant.
In this article, we’ll explore what nubuck is, whether is nubuck leather waterproof or not, how to waterproof it, and provide an analysis of its pros and cons.
Jump to a Specific Section
- 1 Summary
- 2 What Is Nubuck Leather?
- 3 What’s the Difference Between Nubuck and Leather?
- 4 How Often Should You Waterproof Nubuck?
- 5 How To Waterproof Nubuck Leather? 4 Best Ways
- 6 Wearing Nubuck Leather In The Rain?
- 7 How to Clean Nubuck Leather?
- 8 Pros and Cons of Waterproofing Nubuck Leather
- 9 Final Thoughts
- 10 Frequently Asked Questions
- 10.1 How long will Nubuck Leather last?
- 10.2 What is the best way to store Nubuck Leather?
- 10.3 What colors does Nubuck Leather come in?
- 10.4 How is nubuck leather different from suede?
- 10.5 Can nubuck leather shoes get wet?
- 10.6 How should I clean my nubuck leather?
- 10.7 Can nubuck leather be stained easily?
- 10.8 What is the difference between nubuck leather and top-grain leather?
- 11 Resources Used for Research
Summary
- Nubuck leather is more durable than suede and can be waterproofed, while suede cannot.
- Waterproofing nubuck leather is essential for maintaining its appearance and longevity.
- Regular maintenance is necessary to keep nubuck leather looking luxurious.
- Nubuck leather is not completely waterproof and absorbs water quickly.
What Is Nubuck Leather?
Nubuck leather is a type of real leather made from the outer layer of animal hide. It has been buffed and sanded to achieve a soft, velvety look and feel which makes it popular in upholstery, shoes, and other fashion accessories.
But while it looks similar to suede, nubuck is much more durable since it’s made of genuine leather instead of fabric.
What’s the Difference Between Nubuck and Leather?
Nubuck is a type of top-grain leather product, but it has a distinctive velvety texture due to the way that its surface has been sanded or buffed.
It looks almost like suede, however, it is actually more durable than suede and better able to resist abrasion. It can also be waterproofed, unlike regular leather which isn’t waterproof.
Waterproof nubuck is created when a special coating or spray is applied to the surface of the material during production.
How Often Should You Waterproof Nubuck?
Waterproofing your nubuck leather is essential if you want to keep it looking good and lasting for a long time.
It’s important to know how often you should waterproof your nubuck, as this can make all the difference in terms of its longevity.
To keep your nubuck leather looking its best, it’s recommended that you waterproof it at least twice a year.
The amount of protection the leather will need depends on its use and environment.
| A | B | C |
|---|---|---|
| How Often | Leather Use & Environment | Waterproofing Needed |
| Twice a Year | Outdoor/Frequent Use/Rainy Climate | More Frequent |
| Every 6 Months | Indoor/Occasional Use/Dry Climate | Less Frequent |
How To Waterproof Nubuck Leather? 4 Best Ways
Waterproofing your nubuck leather is essential to ensure that it lasts and looks its best for years.
There are several ways to do it, we’ll discuss 4 methods.
1. Use Waterproofing Spray
Waterproofing sprays are an effective way to make your nubuck leather water-resistant.
Before applying the spray, you should clean the nubuck leather with a damp cloth and allow it to air dry.
Once it is dry, lightly spray the surface of your nubuck leather with the waterproofing solution in short bursts, ensuring that it is covered evenly.
It usually takes about 24 hours for the spray to fully bond with the material and form a protective layer that will help waterproof your nubuck leather.
2. Wax Soap
Using wax soap is another great way to protect and preserve your footwear.
For leather care, wax soap is one of the best ways to clean nubuck leather, make it look new, and also help prevent water damage.
The best way to use wax soap on nubuck leather shoes is to gently rub a small amount onto the surface with a soft cloth.
You should avoid scrubbing too hard as this can cause discoloration or even damage the material.
After applying the wax soap, allow your shoes to dry naturally for about 10 minutes before wearing them again.
This will help ensure that your shoes are adequately protected from any potential water damage in the future.
Waxing your nubuck leather shoes regularly can keep them looking as good as new and helps extend their life span significantly.
3. Sno seal
Applying Snoseal to your shoes is a great way to add an extra layer of protection against wet weather conditions.
Snoseal is a water-resistant coating that is applied directly to the surface of nubuck leather in order to make it waterproof.
It helps protect the leather from getting wet and also reduces the risk of staining. When exposed to water, Snoseal will help keep your nubuck leather dry and clean.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Adds an extra layer of protection | Not permanent solution |
| Reduces risk of staining | Can darken color over time |
| Keeps nubuck leather dry & clean | Must be reapplied periodically |
It’s important to note that applying Snoseal does not make nubuck leather completely waterproof, but it can provide added protection and decrease the likelihood of water damage when exposed to rain or snow.
4. Apply Leather Conditioners
Applying leather conditioners to your nubuck leather shoes not only helps restore their color but also helps protect the animal hide from dirt and grime build-up.
Here’s what you should know:
- Use a good quality leather cleaner before applying any kind of conditioner to your nubuck leather shoes. This will ensure that all the dirt and dust particles are removed before conditioning the shoe.
- Choose a moisturizing or oil-based leather conditioner that is specifically designed for nubuck leather. This will help keep its texture soft and supple, as well as maintain its color over time.
- Regularly apply a light coat of conditioner on both sides of the leather hide to prevent it from drying out or cracking due to wear and tear.
Doing so will ensure that your shoes stay in great shape for years to come.
Wearing Nubuck Leather In The Rain?
If you’re considering wearing your nubuck leather shoes or jacket in the rain, you should be aware that this type of leather is not waterproof.
Nubuck is a top-grain cattle hide that has been lightly sanded and buffed to give it a velvety texture. As such, it will absorb water quickly and take longer to dry than other materials.
Therefore, if you do get caught in the rain with your nubuck leather item on, you’ll want to know how long it takes for the material to dry so you can take proper precautions.
How Long Does Nubuck Take to Dry?
Just like any other layer of leather material, nubuck needs to be allowed time to air-dry after being exposed to water or moisture.
The drying process for nubuck can depend on the environment and humidity levels; in high humidity, it may take longer for the leather surface to become completely dry compared with low humidity conditions.
How to Clean Nubuck Leather?
With the right approach, cleaning nubuck leather will be an easy task and your shoes or bag will look like new.
Can You Clean Nubuck Leather with Water?
Water alone won’t be enough to clean nubuck leather.
It’s a special type of leather made from top-grain or full-grain cowhide that has been lightly sanded and buffed with an emery wheel on the grain side, giving it a soft, velvet-like feel.
To make sure your nubuck leather is well cared for, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Avoid getting water on the surface as much as possible
- Vacuum regularly using the upholstery attachment
- Use a brush specifically designed for nubuck leather to remove dirt and debris
With proper care and maintenance, you can help ensure your nubuck leather will look great for years to come.
Overall, nubuck offers an appealing combination of beauty, comfort, and durability that makes it an ideal choice for many applications.
Pros and Cons of Waterproofing Nubuck Leather
Deciding whether to waterproof nubuck can be difficult, as it has both pros and cons which must be weighed carefully.
Pros of nubuck leather:
- Durable
- Water-resistant
- Luxurious
- Easy to maintain
- Offers greater protection than suede
Cons of nubuck leather:
- Can be scuffed or stained easily
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
- Waterproofing can reduce breathability, cause fading or discoloration, and add a glossy sheen
Therefore, when considering whether or not to waterproof nubuck leather, an individual should evaluate their lifestyle and needs in order to determine if this process would provide enough benefit while minimizing any potential drawbacks.
Final Thoughts
You now know all the basics about nubuck leather and how to waterproof it. While it has its advantages, such as a stylish look and unique feel, it also comes with some drawbacks.
Waterproofing can help protect your nubuck leather from spills and stains, however, you must use caution when doing so.
Be sure to choose the right products for the job and test them on a small area of the material before going ahead with treatment.
With proper care and maintenance, nubuck leather can last for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will Nubuck Leather last?
Nubuck leather is highly durable and can last many years with proper care. It’s important to keep it away from moisture, as that can lead to damage over time.
What is the best way to store Nubuck Leather?
To store nubuck leather, it’s best to keep it out of direct sunlight. Place the item in a breathable fabric bag or wrap it in acid-free tissue paper. Avoid plastic bags as they can trap moisture and cause mildew and discoloration.
What colors does Nubuck Leather come in?
Nubuck leather is available in a wide range of colors, including brown, black, tan, gray, and navy. You can also find it dyed in vibrant shades like reds, greens, and blues.
How is nubuck leather different from suede?
Nubuck and suede leather are similar in terms of their appearance and texture. However, nubuck is made from the outer layer of the animal hide, while suede is made from the inner layer.
Can nubuck leather shoes get wet?
Nubuck leather shoes are not completely waterproof, but they are water-resistant. They can withstand a small amount of water exposure, but prolonged or heavy exposure to water may cause damage.
How should I clean my nubuck leather?
To clean your nubuck leather, use a soft brush or nubuck cleaning cloth to remove any dirt or stains. You can also use a nubuck cleaner or mild soap diluted in water. Gently scrub the leather and then wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
Can nubuck leather be stained easily?
Nubuck leather is susceptible to staining, especially from oil-based substances. It is important to be cautious and avoid contact with such substances to prevent stains.
What is the difference between nubuck leather and top-grain leather?
Nubuck leather is made from the top grain of the leather hide, while top grain leather refers to the outer layer of the animal hides. Nubuck leather has been sanded to create a velvety texture, while top-grain leather retains its natural grain pattern.
