Split Leather for Shoemaking

The innermost layer of the hide, which can be further processed to produce suede.It is soft, pliable, and has a unique texture. 

Common Uses 

Casual shoes, like Oxford shoes, Derby shoes or Moccasins and Loafers, boots, and some athletic shoes.

Suede

Description: Leather that's been specially treated to have a soft, napped finish. It's often made from the underside of animal hides.

Thickness: Typically 0.8 - 1.2 mm.

Benefits: Soft, pliable, and has a unique texture. It's also more breathable compared to other leathers.

Roughout Leather

Description: Essentially the reverse side of full-grain leather, it has a texture similar to suede but is thicker and more durable.

Thickness: Usually 1.2 - 2.0 mm.

Benefits: Offers a rugged appearance while maintaining durability.

Common Uses: Work boots, military footwear.

Nubuck Suede

Description: A type of suede that's been sanded or buffed on the grain side, giving it a slight nap of short protein fibers and a velvety surface.

Thickness: Typically 1.0 - 1.5 mm.

Benefits: Soft and has a distinct appearance, but is more durable than regular suede.

Common Uses: Casual footwear, fashion-forward designs; like Slingback pumps, High Heels Pump Shoes  or T-strap pump shoes.


Coated Split Leather

Description: Split leather that's been coated with a polymer or a thin layer of pigment to enhance its appearance and durability.

Thickness: Usually 0.8 - 1.4 mm.

Benefits: Provides a more uniform appearance and increased resistance to wear and tear.

Common Uses: Everyday footwear like Sneakers, bags, and accessories

If you're looking for an alternative to leather, you may purchase vegan leather or use textiles.Also, I encourage you to learn more about the shoemaking process to see what other options you have for making your shoes.

Online stores to buy split leather for shoemaking

Here are some online stores where you can purchase various leather types mentioned above:

https://www.aacrack.com/collections/leather

https://waterhouseleather.com/?s=split+leather

https://tandyleather.com/search?q=Split+Leather

https://www.zackwhite.com/Suede-and-Split-Leather_c_579.html

All Shoemaking Supplies 

If you want to make shoes there is no way around it, you will need knifes, hammers, leather, glue, shanks, boards, and everything else to get the job done.
For that purpose I have created a detailed list of everything you need to make shoes.