Is Suede a Leather? Suede vs Leather, Care, Durability, and Style Compared

FAQ: Is Suede a Leather?

Is suede real leather?
Yes. Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal hides, giving it its signature soft, velvety nap.

How is suede different from smooth leather?
Suede has a brushed, fuzzy surface, while traditional leather has a smoother, firmer grain. Suede is softer but more delicate.

Is suede durable?
It’s durable for daily wear but requires more protection from moisture and stains than other leathers.

Which is more expensive—suede or leather?
It depends on the hide, quality, and finishing process. High-end suede can be more expensive than some grain leathers.

Can suede be waterproofed?
It can’t be fully waterproofed, but it can be made water-resistant with proper sprays.

Suede Bomber Jacket - Brown Lambskin Leather Short Jacket

Is Suede a Leather?

Many people love the look of suede but aren’t always sure how it compares to traditional leather. Suede is indeed a type of leather, but its feel, finish, structure, and maintenance needs make it distinctly different. While leather is known for its firm grain and sleek exterior, suede has a velvety surface that offers a unique texture and softness. This makes both materials highly valued, but for different reasons. Understanding how suede is made, how it differs from full-grain or top-grain leather, and when to choose one over the other helps you shop smarter and care for your pieces better.

What Suede Is Made Of

Suede is created from the inner split of an animal hide. After the top-grain outer layer is separated, the underside is sanded or buffed to create a textured nap. This nap is what gives suede its luxurious softness and matte appearance. Because suede is taken from inner fibers that are naturally looser, it is more flexible and lightweight than smooth leather.

Why Suede Feels Softer

• It comes from the inner hide rather than the tough outer grain

• The fibers are shorter and more open

• The surface is intentionally brushed to raise the nap

• The material remains pliable, making it excellent for clothing

This softness is why suede is often used in garments that need movement—like jackets, relaxed loafers, and accessories.

How Leather Differs From Suede

Leather traditionally refers to the outer grain of the hide. Unlike suede, the grain side has a firmer texture and natural durability. It’s less absorbent, more scratch-resistant, and better suited to structured pieces.

Key Differences

• Leather has a smooth grain; suede has a fuzzy nap

• Leather is more durable; suede is softer

• Leather resists moisture better; suede absorbs more easily

• Leather shows natural markings; suede has a uniform brushed finish

These differences impact how each material is used in design and how each should be maintained.

Minimalist Cowhide Suede Double-Breasted Trench Coat

Suede vs Leather: Side-by-Side Comparison

Below is a quick comparison to help clarify how the two materials differ in real-world use.

Suede vs Leather Comparison Table

When to Choose Suede

Suede is ideal when softness, movement, and texture matter more than structure. Fashion-wise, suede excels in transitional weather, cool evenings, and casual-elegant outfits.

Best Uses for Suede

• Lightweight jackets

• Ankle boots

• Heeled sandals

• Tote bags

• Soft crossbody bags

• Statement outerwear

• Relaxed winter accessories

Its matte surface also pairs beautifully with knits, denim, silk, and wool.

When Leather Makes More Sense

Leather shines in high-wear, high-structure pieces. It’s a favorite for outerwear that needs durability or accessories that must withstand heavy use.

Best Uses for Leather

• Coats

• Motorcycle jackets

• Dress boots

• Structured handbags

• Wallets and belts

• Everyday outerwear

• Travel bags

Leather’s water resistance and durability make it more practical for frequent wear, harsh weather, or high-impact environments.

How Suede Is Made

The suede-making process begins with choosing quality hides, then splitting the hide into layers. Once the top grain is removed, the inner layer is buffed, sanded, and raised. Depending on the hide—cow, lamb, goat, or deer—the suede will vary in softness and strength.

Steps in Producing Suede

1. Selecting hides and removing imperfections

2. Splitting the hide into top grain and inner layers

3. Sanding or buffing the inner layer

4. Raising the nap evenly

5. Dyeing and finishing

6. Applying treatments (optional) such as waterproofing

This meticulous process gives suede jackets and accessories their signature luxury.

Vintage Goatskin Suede Trucker Jacket in Brown

Which Lasts Longer: Suede or Leather?

Leather lasts longer. It can withstand scratches, bending, and moisture far better than suede. However, with proper care—including protective sprays, brushing, and careful storage—suede can last many years.

Longevity Tips for Suede

• Use a suede brush regularly

• Apply protective sprays

• Avoid soaking rain

• Store with airflow

• Keep away from oils and lotions

Suede loves attentive care, while leather is more forgiving.

How to Style Suede vs Leather

Both materials style beautifully, but they serve different moods.

Style Notes for Suede

• Best for casual and smart-casual outfits

• Looks elegant with denim, knits, and flowy fabrics

• Softens an outfit and adds texture

• Works well with earth tones, neutrals, and pastels

Style Notes for Leather

• Adds edge, structure, or polish

• Pairs well with tailored pants and boots

• Enhances monochrome outfits

• Works best with blacks, browns, deep neutrals

Caring for Suede vs Leather

Leather can be wiped clean and conditioned easily. Suede requires gentler methods and specialized brushes.

Quick Care Comparison

• Suede: brush + protect + avoid water

• Leather: wipe + condition + occasional waterproofing

Both improve with age—but suede requires more deliberate care.

Luxe Oversized Winter Suede Blazer

Final Thoughts

Suede is absolutely a type of leather, but one that behaves differently, feels different, and requires different care techniques. While leather is strong, structured, and versatile, suede is soft, matte, and elegant, giving outfits a textural dimension that smooth leather can’t replicate. Choosing between suede and leather comes down to the occasion, your wardrobe needs, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on. Both materials have distinct strengths—and both play a role in building a well-rounded wardrobe.