The Material Guide
At Hide and Leather, we take great pride in the materials we use to craft our English footwear. We believe in sourcing only the finest materials, which is why we select premium leathers and other high-quality fabrics for our shoes. From luxurious Calf leather to durable synthetic materials for sneakers, each choice is made with care.
In this material guide, we'll take you through the different types of leather and fabrics we use, explaining their properties, where theyโre used, and how they contribute to the overall performance and longevity of your shoes.
Calf Leather
The Pinnacle of Luxury and Softness
Where It's Used: Calf leather is often reserved for our premium formal shoes, including Oxfords, Derby shoes, and loafers.
Comfort & Wear: Calf leather is incredibly smooth, soft, and flexible, making it one of the most comfortable leathers to wear. Its fine grain gives a refined look and the leather molds to the foot over time, improving comfort.
Cow Leather
Where It's Used: Cow leather is commonly used for boots, sneakers, and derby shoes. Itโs also used for some casual and smart-casual shoes.
Comfort & Wear: Known for its robustness, cow leather is thicker and more durable than calf leather, making it ideal for shoes that need to endure daily wear and rough conditions. It provides excellent protection and support.
Suede Leather
Where It's Used: Suede is used primarily for loafers, derby shoes, and boots. It's a popular choice for more casual or smart-casual footwear.
Comfort & Wear: Suede offers a rich, velvety texture thatโs soft to the touch. It provides excellent comfort but is more sensitive to wear and stains compared to smooth leather. Suede can absorb moisture, so itโs best worn in dry conditions.
Patent Leather
Where It's Used: Patent leather is often used in formal shoes, such as Oxfords and derby shoes, especially for events like weddings or galas.
Comfort & Wear: Patent leather is coated with a high-gloss finish that gives it a sleek, shiny appearance. While itโs less flexible than traditional leather, it is highly resistant to moisture and stains. However, it may not be as breathable as other materials.
Nubuck Leather
Where It's Used: Nubuck leather is typically used in boots, loafers, and casual shoes.
Comfort & Wear: Nubuck is similar to suede but made from the outer layer of the hide, which gives it a finer, denser texture. Itโs Soft, Velvety Finish for a Rugged, Casual Look.
Cow Burnish Leather
Where It's Used: Burnished leather is often used in derby shoes, loafers, and boots for a sophisticated, slightly aged look.
Comfort & Wear: Burnished leather is cowhide that has been treated with heat and polishing to give it a glossy, slightly weathered finish. It is durable, flexible, and ages beautifully, becoming more comfortable as it conforms to the foot.
Sheep Leather
Where It's Used: We use sheep leather in some of our boots and casual shoes.
Comfort & Wear: Sheep leather is lightweight, soft, and very pliable, offering a high level of comfort. Itโs particularly beneficial for shoes that need to provide flexibility and breathability.
By understanding how each type of shoe fits into your wardrobe, you can confidently choose the right pair for any event, ensuring you step out in style, comfort, and sophistication.
