Suede leather: What is it, difference between faux and ...

You may have come across suede leather while shopping for leather products such as furniture or clothing. But what exactly is suede, and how can we tell the difference between genuine and faux? Continue reading to learn everything there is to know about suede leather.

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What is Suede?

Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of an animal's skin, featuring a soft surface. It is typically derived from lambskin, but can also come from goat, pig, calf, and deer skins. Suede is softer and thinner than traditional full-grain leather, making it less strong.

What are the origins of Suede?

The term "suede" is derived from the French phrase "gants de Suede," which translates to "gloves of Sweden." During the late 18th-century Romantic period in France, Swedish leather imports were cherished by the French nobility. Rather than using the rough outer leather, Swedish artisans developed a technique to craft soft gloves from the inner skin of animal hides.

For many decades, suede was mainly used for gloves, but European artisans recognized its potential in a variety of other products. Consequently, suede was adapted for use in jackets, shoes, bags, and more.

How is Suede made?

Suede is made from animal skin, and there are two primary manufacturing methods. The first method involves turning the animal hide inside out, exposing its weaker side. Although this technique creates a more durable product, it lacks the delicate texture of traditional suede and is thus rarely used.

The second method involves splitting the leather, scraping the upper grain, and exposing only the napped underside of the hide. This yields a product with fuzzy material visible on both sides, promoting a softer and more versatile fabric ideal for clothing and accessories.

Difference between real and faux Suede

One significant difference between real suede and faux suede is that genuine suede is derived from animal skins, while faux suede is manufactured from synthetic materials. Real suede is generally more durable, but its quality may vary based on the production process. Conversely, faux suede is typically more resistant to water and stains, and is easier to maintain.

Genuine suede is not inherently water-resistant; even a small drop can leave a lasting stain. Though treatments can enhance water resistance, results may vary. Therefore, suede outerwear is often fashionable but best suited for indoor wear or sunny days. In contrast, faux suede is usually water-repellent, primarily made from refined plastic, providing excellent weather resistance.

Another distinction lies in the aging process. Regular suede, like most leathers, may crack and discolor over time. Different sections of the material respond variably to sunlight and environmental factors, generally reflecting where they originated on the animal. Parts that endure more wear and tear become brittle compared to sections that benefited from muscle or fat protection. In general, faux suede ages more consistently.

What are the different types of Suede?

Here are some common types of suede:

Pigskin suede

Pigskin is the least common of the suede types due to its harder texture and shorter nap. However, it remains popular for its exceptional durability.

Sheepskin suede

Sheepskin is the most widely used hide for suede leather, known for its pliable, brush-textured surface. Although it lacks waterproof qualities, it serves as an excellent winter material.

Cowhide suede

Cowhide suede differs with age; calf hide produces a softer and lighter leather compared to older cows. While cowhide is similarly soft as sheepskin, it is less abundant. Nonetheless, it is incredibly durable and long-lasting.

What is it used for?

Accessories: Suede is popular for various accessories including gloves, handbags, and belts, thanks to its distinctive appearance that appeals to fashion designers.

Footwear: The smooth texture of suede enhances loafers, slides, and boots. Suede boots, particularly, are valued for their comfort and style and are lighter yet durable compared to standard leather.

Outerwear/Clothing: Famous for western fringe jackets, suede jackets are a fashionable staple due to their beautiful texture and durability.

Advantages of Suede

Malleable: Suede is a flexible leather that can be molded to create stylish clothing and accessories.

Durable: Compared to fabric materials, suede is remarkably tough, exhibiting a beautiful drape.

Appearance: The soft fabric and smooth nap provide an appealing texture.

Long-lasting: As a type of leather, suede can endure for many years with proper care.

Disadvantages of Suede

Thin: Suede's thinness, while advantageous, results in reduced durability compared to regular leather.

Easily damaged: The nap of suede can attract dust and dirt, impacting its appearance and cleanliness.

Difference Between Suede and Nubuck

Nubuck is a soft leather made from the top grain of animal hide, sanded to create a smooth finish. Suede tends to be less expensive than nubuck, which is typically cowhide. Nubuck is thicker and more durable than suede, and both materials are not inherently waterproof but can be treated to improve water resistance.

Difference Between Suede and Microsuede

Microsuede is a faux leather made from suede-like polyester fabric. Soft, water-resistant, lightweight, stain-proof, and easy to maintain, microsuede is highly popular, especially for upholstery in homes with children and pets.

Care considerations

While professional cleaning is recommended for suede, several home care tips can help keep it looking good:

1. Avoid exposing suede to water, as it can ruin the material and cause irreversible damage.

2. Use a suede brush with brass or nylon bristles to maintain the nap. A suede eraser can help remove stains, and specialized treatments are available to enhance water resistance.

3. For wet stains, talc powder can be used, while white vinegar helps with dried stains.

Conclusion

Genuine suede leather is a respected material known for its softness and flexibility, making it suitable for various products. While it requires some maintenance, it offers a quality and comfortable aesthetic that is enjoyable over time.

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