When we invest in a pair of shoes, we're often looking to combine style, comfort and durability. And if there's one material that ticks all the boxes, it's leather. But not all leather shoes are created equal! Here's a complete guide to choosing the right leather shoes and avoiding the most common mistakes.
1. Understanding the different types of leather
Leather is a natural material with many faces. Here are the main types you'll come across:
- Full-grain leather: the noblest. This is the top layer of the hide, uncorrected and retaining its natural grain. Resistant, breathable and durable, this is the leather used in high-end shoes.
- Corrected grain leather: sanded to eliminate imperfections, then embossed. It is less expensive, but also less breathable and less durable.
- Nubuck: full-grain leather lightly sanded for a velvety effect. Very elegant, but sensitive to stains.
- Suede: taken from the lower part of the hide, softer and more supple, but more fragile.
2. Criteria for a good leather shoe
✔️ Leather quality
Good leather can be recognized by its soft yet firm texture, its natural smell and its ability to develop a patina over time. It should be supple without cracking, and its finish should be clean, without excessive varnish.
✔️ Construction
Choose sewn shoes rather than glued ones. Blake or Goodyear stitching is a guarantee of quality. The sole, too, plays an important role: at Swivells, for example, we use neolite soles, a lightweight, resistant and non-slip material, ideal for both city and dance.
✔️ Comfort from the very first step
A good leather shoe should offer good support, without pressure points. Leather softens over time, but the initial shape should already be adapted to your foot.
3. Why choose leather shoes?
Leather is a long-term investment. Properly cared for, your leather shoes can last for years. They let your feet breathe, adapt to their shape and take on a beautiful patina. It's also an aesthetic choice: leather is fashionable and adapts to every style.
4. Swivells: an informed choice for leather lovers
At Swivells, we design full-grain leather shoes, hand-stitched in Spain, originally designed for swing dancers. What makes them so comfortable and durable is our commitment to quality: supple leather, a light, grippy neolite sole and an elegant cut. Our shoes are made to move, to dance, to live.
5. To sum up: the right reflexes to adopt
- Choose full-grain leather for durability
- Check the quality of the sole (avoid plastic!)
- Opt for a sewn model, to guarantee sturdiness.
- Choose brands like Swivells, which are transparent about the origin of their materials.
A good pair of leather shoes is a daily pleasure and a lasting investment. So, are you ready to make the right choice?
