Naplak is leather that meets the canons of the strictest taste: it shines, but moderately, giving the whole ensemble a noble look. These shoes are quite expensive to wear, but the price is justified by the quality!
Important! Offered at a very reasonable price, real “Italian boots” are most likely from Asia or Africa: high-quality Italian shoes from Italy can only be expensive.
Naplak: what is it?
The name of this material, shining with a matte sheen, combines two names of leather:
- nappa - a material obtained from the tanning of cattle hides;
- varnished.
The leather goes through two stages of processing: first, chrome tanning, which gives it plasticity and softness (the so-called artificial aging), then varnish: the coating provides a glossy shine.
The special qualities of naplak depend on the source material: it consists of particularly thin and smooth leather, which is also characterized by increased strength. The result is luxurious and durable shoes and leather goods that can withstand the vagaries of the weather. But – not frost below -15̊ C!
Reference! The history of naplak begins simultaneously with the history of other patent leathers in 1818. At this time, the inventive Seth Boyden came up with the idea to make shoe polish based on linseed oil. The innovation helped to thicken the upper layers of the skin and give them a new shine. Later, linseed oil was replaced by a plastic mixture. In the 60s of the twentieth century, varnish was appreciated by adherents of the sexual revolution. She was at the forefront of fashion in the 80s, which became the era of kitsch. During such periods, a more strict plaid remained the privilege of fashionistas who avoided the extremes of the trends of the time.
What kind of shoes are made from naplak?
The combination of comfort, wear resistance, presentable appearance and ease of care has given the material an honorable place in the world of footwear: it is used to make exclusive models of shoes, bags and wallets. From naplak of all possible colors they sew:
- sandals and shoes - classic and sports;
- ankle boots and boots;
- boots - demi-season and winter.
Even in the production of sneakers (exclusive!) this noble material has found application!
Important! Manufacturers from different countries offer naplak products of varying quality. The best product is offered by Italian companies: the thin leather of their products can stretch without damaging the varnish layer. There are no creases on it, even if it is an accordion boot. Frost (moderate!) and heat will pass without a trace for such a couple, as will the fingernail scratch test. What can’t be said about their Chinese or South African “brothers”: they will crack faster, and it’s better to protect them from scratches! Their water resistance is also questionable.
How is it different from varnish and other types of leather?
Naplak differs from more common patent leather shoes not only in its more moderate shine.Their production technology is similar, but the output is significantly different shoe options: Naplak shoes are much thinner and softer. Those with “capricious” feet are recommended to choose models made from naplac: the ability of the material to stretch and “adapt” to the foot eliminates the costs of other types of leather.
The special softness does not prevent shoes or boots made from naplac from being resistant to atmospheric conditions: there are almost never any creases left on it (unless you are in the habit of stomping on butts!).
With moderate use, such a pair of shoes will last 2-3 seasons, unless, of course, you flaunt them in twenty-degree frost and don’t test their water-repellent properties by walking through puddles. It also requires treatment with special means - they are not cheap, but they will extend the service life.
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