When purchasing winter clothes or shoes, it is sometimes not easy to choose between leather or suede. Both materials look impressive and adapt perfectly to the foot, if we talk about high-quality shoes. They highlight the silhouette well when considering outerwear.
Therefore, even an experienced person may find it difficult to make the right choice. But in any case, you should remember that leather that does not receive proper care during the harsh winter season will not last even three months. And with a suede surface, care will require a little more attention and patience.
The same applies to handbags. Leather and suede are worthy materials that perfectly emphasize the beauty and shape of accessories, but such products also require a lot of care.
Suede
For many, suede is the material that defines luxury. Thanks to its special texture, this material has an attractive velvety feel. Natural suede is obtained by tanning. Goatskin is suitable for suede. But increasingly, it is made from almost any medium-sized livestock.The raw materials are distinguished by strength, softness, and good properties to retain heat.
Therefore, it is worth taking a closer look at outerwear and shoes made from this material. You should not take the product if it is uneven on the surface or has pellets. The material must be smooth (small scratches are allowed), evenly painted, with an even structure. But it is worth clearly distinguishing natural material from artificial material in order to make the right choice when purchasing. The material has the following characteristics:
- after running your palm over the surface of the suede, an imprint remains on it, but of a different color;
- the product is not strong, but it smells like leather;
- the price of natural material is several times more expensive.
So, if the choice has already been made, then you should prepare for the fact that the material does not tolerate moisture and too dry air. Therefore, new boots or sheepskin coats should be immediately treated with a spray that protects them from moisture and dirt.
Moreover, when buying a product, you should pay attention to the brand. Professional care will ensure long service life for even the most delicate items. If, after cleaning from dirt, a stain appears on the product or the paint has faded slightly, you can purchase a special paint for suede that will restore the color.
Leather
One of the most durable surfaces, which has the ability to retain heat, while breathing and providing maximum comfort when wearing clothes or shoes, is leather. In terms of its strength, it is a leader among natural raw materials for clothing and footwear.
It becomes so durable thanks to the dressing of the skin. The original quality of the raw material is of paramount importance, so leather varies in quality and price. Premium class material is used for sewing expensive shoes and clothes, and is also the basis for modern accessories of prestigious brands.
The skin has the following properties:
- take the desired shape;
- promotes air passage and at the same time differs in heat transfer;
- insulates from cold;
- has hygienic properties (as a natural raw material for sewing clothes and shoes, providing comfort).
Products made from genuine leather must be treated with protection during periods of frost and moisture. And also rub with creams to prevent the skin from cracking and drying out.
What is warmer, suede or leather in winter?
Many experts believe that with properly selected shoes and clothing, the cold is not scary. But it’s worth showing objectivity. What makes a boot warm is not only the outer layer, but also the lining. Therefore, both types of surfaces with a warm wool or fur interior will always be an excellent solution for winter.
Another thing is precipitation. With them, you should take care of waterproof shoes and still take care of the suede. In situations where you have to go outside in snow or slush in suede shoes, you need to spray your (new) shoes three times with a spray to prevent moisture penetration. Leather shoes should only be treated once.
Conclusion
Proper care of leather and suede products will help extend their service life. By choosing natural material, you will be able to appreciate its best qualities even in the most severe frosts. And decent protection in the form of liquids, foams and paints will help preserve the quality and appearance of things.