What are the differences between suede vs. leather hiking boots? I will compare these two boot materials and give you a fair and in-depth answer.
Top Rated Best Budget Suede and Leather Hiking Boots for the money
Comparison Table: Suede Vs. Leather Hiking Boots
If you don’t know which one is best for you, you usually have to do a lot of research. We will assist you by comparing Suede Vs. Leather Hiking Boots.
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Suede Vs. Leather Hiking Boots: What Are The Differences
You can tell the differences between leather and suede hiking boots just by looking at them. However, it’s not the look solely but also the feel and style of each category that makes up its unique features.
Origin
Many people commonly misunderstand that suede and leather come from different origins. Actually, these two categories are both made of animal skins such as deer, cow, pig, and, most commonly, lambs.
However, the difference lies in the location of the skin part used for manufacturing suede and leather. There are two layers on animal skins: the flash and grain side.
The grain side is the outer surface that holds the fur of the animal, which is very hard, thick, and durable. Meanwhile, the flesh side is the inner layer that covers animals’ bones and flesh.
This layer is softer, thinner, and more pliable than the outer surface. Suede hiking boots are made of this inner side, while its counterpart comes mainly from the grain side.
Durability And Protection
Since suede hiking boots come from inner leather, they feature a softer and more pliable texture. Meanwhile, leather hiking boots are significantly thicker and more durable as it originates from the protecting skin layer.
Besides durability, leather hiking boots also bring a more long-lasting lifespan. Many high-quality leather hiking boots can last for many decades without deteriorating in quality.
Though their color and look may slowly fade away, the firmness and texture of the shoes stay intact. Meanwhile, suede hiking boots are very prone to dirt and scratches, which can easily damage their look and surface.
So, you need to maintain suede shoes more regularly after each hiking trip.
Waterproof And Comfort
The protective layer of the animal skin has the responsibility to resist water penetration and cold temperatures. Therefore, it’s not strange that leather hiking shoes bring a much better waterproofness.
It can keep your feet warm and cozy in harsh weather conditions. Meanwhile, suede boots are prone to water and cold temperatures, which may make them shrink after a short period.
However, suede hiking boots provide better breathability, which makes you feel cooler and less obstructed when walking for an extended period.
Touch And Look
Suede shoes give a matted and velvety surface, while the hiking boots feel very soft and buttery. Both materials are beautiful, but leather hiking boots are more recognizable due to their popularity.
Moreover, you can mix leather hiking shoes with other outfits easier than suede products.
Price And Versatility
It depends on the brand and design of the boots, but suede is commonly cheaper than leather. However, leather hiking boots have been around for much longer and have gained more popularity.
They will come in more sizes and design options for users to choose from. Meanwhile, suede footwears are relatively new on the market, so it is harder to find your favorite design or custom shoes.
If you need more in-depth comparisons, follow this video to learn more!
Suede Vs. Leather Hiking Boots: Which One Should You Choose?
Not to mention the fashion and design, leather hiking boots are always a better option for the hiker. It combines the qualities like high durability, greater protection, and waterproofness.
Meanwhile, suede boots are very prone to water, heat, and dirt. Therefore, it is definitely not ideal footwear for hiking. However, if you still like the look and matte surface of suede boots, then just go for them.
FAQS
How about the price and comfort suede and leather hiking boots bring in the usage process? Which material gives a longer lifespan? If you are wondering about these questions, the answer in this section will surely help.
Is Suede Good For Hiking Boots?
The answer is yes. Suede is a common material used in hiking boot manufacture.
It provides excellent durability, flexibility, comfort, and breathability when you stay active for many hours.
However, suede hiking boots are very prone to dirt and scratches, so you should be careful in the usage process.
Ensure to clean and store them properly to maintain their beauty.
Are Leather Or Suede Boots Better?
Leather shoes are a better option than suede boots in general. Does this material bring higher durability and a longer life span? Leather also provides a more classy and fashionable look that can fit many outfits.
However, if you like the matte touch and distinctive color of suede boots, they are also a good option.
Is Suede Softer Than Leather?
Suede is typically softer than leather since it comes mostly from animal skin (lamb), which possesses a very tender surface. Sometimes it also comes from deer, pig, and goat leather.
What Is The Best Material For Hiking Shoes?
There is no perfect material that can ensure every quality, like comfort, durability, and appearance. However, the full-grain leather hiking shoes are the best option if you aim at durability.
They can withstand vigorous and continuous movement on unbalanced terrains without wearing down. Yet, low breathability is a setback you should consider.
Are Suede Hiking Boots Waterproof?
Unfortunately, suede hiking boots are not waterproof and will get damaged when exposed to rain or water.
However, you can minimize the damage by customizing the boot and giving it a little water resistance capacity.
Avoid heavy rain or hiking through the rivers with your suede because its quality will deteriorate quickly.
What Lasts Longer, Suede Or Leather?
Leather products bring a more significant lifespan than suede. The high-quality leather shoes can last for even a lifetime if you store and hygiene them properly.
Though suede boots still offer great durability, their quality and look will deteriorate after several years.
Is Suede More Expensive Than Leather?
Though leather comes with higher durability and a longer lifespan, products made of leather usually have a lower price.
However, it also depends on the brand and type of hides used for manufacturing these two materials.
If a leather product comes from high-quality hides, it will have a very high price.
Are Timberlands Leather Or Suede?
The answer will vary on different product lines. Timberlands utilize both leather and suede for manufacturing their footwear products. Still, the traditional versions are usually made of nubuck leather.
Are Suede Boots More Comfortable?
It depends on the type of hides used for making sure boots. If a suede shoe is made of low-quality hides, it may feel stiff and uncomfortable on your feet.
However, suede is more comfortable than leather due to its softer and lighter properties.
Is Suede Hard To Clean?
Compared to leather and other popular materials, suede is very hard to clean and gets dirty quicker. Even water can stain and leave a visible mark on your shoes and damage their inner structure, color, and look.
