For Skinners shoes, we use high-quality leather – a processed natural material that is the basis of their comfort and durability. But you may be wondering what the difference is between hide and leather. Leather is a raw, unprocessed material, while leather is created by its special tanning, which gives it elasticity, durability and adaptability. In everyday speech, these terms are often confused, but in the shoe industry, “leather” is used to refer to the final, prepared material from which shoes are made.
Leather – a natural material with unique properties
Leather is the most popular material used in the production of quality shoes due to its natural properties, such as breathability, elasticity and the ability to adapt to the shape of the foot. Each type of leather requires specific care to maintain the appearance and functionality of the shoes. Let’s look at the main types of leather and how to care for them.
Smooth leather
Smooth leather has a finely structured surface with small pores. It is popular for its elegant look and can withstand heavy daily wear. It is easy to maintain if you follow a few simple steps:
Cleaning: Use a soft brush or damp cloth to remove dirt. Wipe the surface gently and let it dry.
Protection: First apply shoe cream, ideally with nutrition. To increase the shine, polish with a soft cloth. Then impregnate with a spray for smooth leather.
Quick care on the go: Self-polishing sponges are a great helper, but they only add shine - they do not replace regular creaming.
And which Skinners models are made of smooth leather? For example, Moonwalker in low and high versions, stylish Astra or minimalist Chelsea.
Nubuck and split leather
These hair leathers have a sanded surface on the face or back. Nubuck has a lower pile and a soft velvety surface. Split leather, sometimes called velour or suede, has a higher pile and is softer and smoother to the touch. Both materials provide natural breathability thanks to their texture and are ideal for dry conditions. However, shoes made from these materials require specific care:
Cleaning: Use a cleaning brush, gently remove dirt and restore the surface structures. You can also use a suitable foam for cleaning shoes.
Protection: Impregnate with a spray for hairy leather, which will increase water resistance.
What not to do: Do not use creams or waxes that could irreversibly change the appearance of the surface.
The popular Easygoer model is a typical example of split leather shoes. The Oldschooler is a combination of split leather and smooth leather. The (under)winter model Farmer is made from nubuck, which has become a hit of the winter season.
What is “genuine leather”?
There are other types of leather and materials that deserve attention. One of them is the so-called “genuine leather”, often referred to as “real leather”. Although this name may give the impression of high quality, it is actually the lowest category of real leather. This material is created by grinding up leftovers and scraps of leather, which are then glued together with adhesives, such as polyurethane or latex, and coated with varnish or a surface layer. The result is a product that contains real leather, but its durability and lifespan are significantly lower. A typical sign of such leather is that the surface will begin to crumble after some time.
On the other hand, there is also high-quality coated leather, which contains a layer of paint or protective coating. This treatment is not used to mask low quality, but to highlight the color that needs to be achieved. For example, our white leathers have a fine layer of paint that gives the shoes an elegant look while protecting the material from wear and tear.
At Skinners barefoot shoes, we focus exclusively on high-quality natural leathers that are durable, comfortable and will adapt to your needs. Quality and comfort always come first
Tip: Regardless of the type of leather, the golden rule applies – regular care and appropriate products can significantly extend the life of your barefoot shoes and preserve their beauty. Don’t forget to regularly impregnate and clean your shoes according to the recommendations for the given material. You can learn how to do this in our article How to care for barefoot shoes in autumn and winter.
Textile and other materials – lightness and breathability for hot days
Thanks to their lightness and breathability, textile materials are a popular choice for summer and home barefoot shoes. Textiles can easily be used to create functional and stylish shoes that adapt easily to the foot and are lightweight. They offer comfort that you will appreciate especially on warm days, and are also an ideal choice for everyday use in undemanding conditions.
Cleaning: Always check the enclosed information or leaflet before cleaning. Some barefoot shoe models may be machine washable, and for other models that combine textile and leather, machine washing is strictly not recommended. Therefore, always follow the recommendations given for the specific model.
Dry clean the surface of the shoe with a soft brush to remove dust and small dirt. For more stubborn stains, use foam or a mild detergent specifically designed for textile shoes.
Protection: Use an impregnating spray suitable for textiles to protect against moisture and dirt. This step will also help to revive the colors of the material.
What not to do: Avoid using aggressive chemicals or rough sponges that could damage the structure of the textile.
Skinners and innovation. The first barefoot shoes made of wood.
You have probably already registered that in spring 2025 we are going to launch another new product, the Skinners Globetrotter. The first barefoot shoes made of wood. The breathable TreeKnit™ upper made of coniferous fibers fits like a sock. The soft, mattress-like lining is made of eucalyptus and the highly resistant Sensium™ abrasion-resistant sole is made of rubber tree. Skinners Globetrotter thus brings a revolution in barefoot shoes, combining sustainability, comfort and innovative materials into a unique design.
Each material used to make Skinners shoes has its own advantages and unique properties. Skinners shoes thus combine style, comfort and practicality to meet the expectations of modern customers. From classic smooth leather to soft nubuck to the new, innovative TreeKnit™ – all are carefully selected to meet the demands of functionality and comfort.
Thanks to this variety of materials, you can choose shoes that fit not only your foot, but also your lifestyle. With Skinners, you take a step towards nature with every material.