Boots

Difference between Full Grain or Nubuck leather for a Backpacking Boot?

Looking to buy a good classic Backpacking Boot. (ie. Asolo Powermatic or Vasque Summit, and others.)

Full grain leather is the leather on boots that’s typically glossy and really smooth where the Nubuck is a full grain leather that has been scraped and abraded to give it a suede or velvet feeling to it and is usually dull/flat color. The Nubuck allows the boot maker to use imperfect pieces of cowhide where the Full Grain uses uniform pieces, both use the full thickness of the cowhide.

Both can be waterproof, just in slightly different ways. Nubuck is usually lighter therefore more breathable than Full grain but it usually utilizes Gore-Tex or some other waterproof membrane to get its waterproofness, breathability, and to lighten the weight of the boot. (usually the boots that have both leather and fabric on the uppers) But Full grain usually only uses a conditioner to keep it waterproof and tend to be a bit hotter since it breaths less and is usually heavier. But there are companies that make a Full grain boot with goretex. You can and I have used conditioner on Nubuck but it definitely changes the appearance of the boot since it`ll darken it and you tend to loose the original appearance of the leather. I didnt care what they look like as long as they were waterproof and I was stretching the life of them a bit haha.

Maintenance is all relative, how often do you use the bots what kind of conditions do you take them in. Keep both types clean and well conditioned so they dont dry out or lose their waterproofing they`ll last a long time. I`ve found Full grain boots tend to outlast Nubuck boots just because you`re essentially strapping cowhide to your feet. But Full Grains are usually more expensive- you get what you pay for.

Well as far as waterproofing goes some Full Grain incorporate Goretex as a wicking membrane and other Full grain boots dont have gore tex or any membrane at all. So sure it may help with waterproofing, especially if you dont condition them, but it wont help with the breathability.

I`m sure there are other guys on here that can go into further detail than I did. I tried to keep it short and to touch on the general features of both.

Vasque Men's Sundowner GTX Hiking Boot $202.00 Men's Vasque Sundowner GORE-TEX Backpacking Boots The Vasque Sundowner Boots are mid-weight Backpackers with a reputation for comfort and old-school style, which may explain why they're as common at the grocery store as on the trail. These Hikers are also equally at home under the weight of a pack and on a usual day hike. More details: Waterproof smooth leather uppers; Vasque classic outsole; Wate...

Vasque Men's Wasatch GTX Hiking Boot $159.95 Men's Vasque Wasatch GORE-TEX Backpacking Boots Strobel construction and a compression-resistant polyurethane midsole give the medium duty Vasque Wasatch Backpacking Boots a soft feel and athletic fit. Its exclusive Vibram outsole and GORE-TEX bootie offer lasting performance on long trips. Check 'em out: Waterproof nubuck leather uppers; Vibram contact outsole; Waterproof / breathable GORE-TEX me...

Vasque Women's Wasatch GTX Hiking Boot $159.95 Women's Vasque Wasatch GORE-TEX Backpacking Boots Strobel construction and a compression-resistant polyurethane midsole give the medium duty Vasque Wasatch Backpacking Boots a soft feel and athletic fit. Its exclusive Vibram outsole and GORE-TEX bootie offer lasting performance on long trips. Check 'em out: Waterproof nubuck leather uppers; Vibram contact outsole; Waterproof / breathable GORE-TEX ...

Vasque Men's Summit GTX Hiking Boot $199.95 Men's and Women's Vasque Summit GTX Boots from Red Wing take you to the top with rugged performance, supportive comfort! A premier backpacking Boot! The special Kinetic insole system works to give you proper heel placement and lateral stability... making Summit GTX Boots incredibly comfortable without sacrificing comfort. With pair on your feet, you can be bold on the trail, my friend! Explore the...

Vasque Women's Sundowner GTX Hiking Boot Women's Vasque Sundowner GORE-TEX Backpacking Boots The Vasque Sundowner Boots are mid-weight Backpackers with a reputation for comfort and old-school style, which may explain why they're as common at the grocery store as on the trail. These Hikers are also equally at home under the weight of a pack and on a usual day hike. More details: Waterproof smooth leather uppers; Vasque classic outsole; Wa...

On Road Gore-Tex Boots $325 Sidi On Road Gore-Tex Boots Enhanced new design made with top grain leather construction and equipped with a Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane. Sidi has always brought us the best products in the industry and the On Road boot is no exception. One of the most comfortable road boots you will ever wear. Enhanced new design Top grain leather construction Equipped with a GORE-TEX waterproof-breathable membrane Secure multi Velcro closure system Full length inner gaiter Rigid nylon innersole Composite inner sole Removable arch support Internal heel protection Internal ankle protection Internal toe protection Leather toe shift-brake pad Padded shin plate Double stitched in all high stress areas Ankle cup Bonded non-slip lug type sole View the MotorcycleUSA.com review of the Sidi On Road Gore-Tex Boots here: Sidi On Road Gore Tex Boots Review

Soho Gore-Tex Boots $329.95 Alpinestars Soho Gore-Tex Boots Constructed from full-grain leather Double density injected TPU ankles and shin protection layered under the leather Internal heel and toe counter reinforcement 100 Waterproof Gore-Tex reg; lining Removable EVA foam foot bed provides superior shock absorption and impact protection Exclusive 3D tread pattern on sole provides excellent grip and comfort Adjustable Velcro reg; and zippered calf closure system Soho Gore-Tex reg; boot is CE certified

Canyon Gore-Tex Boots $300 Sidi Canyon Gore-Tex Boots Sidi continuously researching new technological solutions to enhance rider safety is proud to present the Canyon Gore-Tex boot. With Sidi rsquo;s great style feel support and quality there are no finer performance off road boots in the world. Non-Bootie Designs: Sidi boots do not incorporate inner booties into their design and for good reason. Booties make the design larger and cumbersome; add to the boot rsquo;s thickness which interferes with shifting plus the inner booties retain body heat affecting the rider rsquo;s performance and comfort. Gore-Tex: Striving for peak performance Whether it rsquo;s a day on a wet track a long distance tour through all types of conditions or simply pursuing your everyday adventures Sidi GORE-TEX reg; lined boots will help you get there. Designed to provide comfort and protection Sidi GORE-TEX reg; boots keep your feet dry even when you encounter snow or rain. Each Sidi GORE-TEX reg; boot is totally waterproof to keep moisture from penetrating inside yet incredibly breathable to allow sweat to escape. This high breathability is critical to your comfort because simply put sweaty feet are uncomfortable feet. Inside waterproof boots that are not breathable moisture builds up and has nowhere to go. It then remains trapped against your skin leaving your feet clammy uncomfortable and more prone to develop blisters. This can be even more of a problem in high aerobic activities because the more active you are the more your feet sweat - we rsquo;re talking up to one full cup of water a day! Sidi rsquo;s GORE-TEX reg; lined boots is specifically designed to provide comfort and protection on a hard ride or for longer rides when the weather is warmer. The patented GORE-TEX reg; bootie is where it all starts. Nestled between the boot rsquo;s outer top grain leather and the inner liner this bootie keeps water out while letting your perspiration vapor escape. As part of Sidi rsquo;s waterproof guarantee EVERY bootie and boot produced is tested for waterproofness and breathability. And to make sure the whole boot breathes the way it should all leather and other textile materials used to construct Sidi GORE-TEX reg; boots are tested for breathability as well. So go on - take that extra step. Take it in total comfort because you rsquo;re wearing Sidi GORE-TEX reg; boots! Features: Top grain leather construction Contrasting texture upper Equipped with a GORE-TEX waterproof-breathable membrane Velcro closure system above the ankle Micro adjustable strap system below the ankle Full length inner gaiter Rigid nylon innersole Removable arch support Internal heel protection Internal ankle protection Internal toe protection Leather toe shift-brake pad Nylon plate and internally padded shin plate Double stitched in all high stress areas Reflective panels Bonded non-slip lug type sole

Web Gore-Tex Boots $239.95 Alpinestars Web Gore-Tex Boots Alpinestars rsquo; Web Gore-Tex is a high quality waterproof and breathable boot that can be worn every day of the year. Features: Outer side zipper closure system for easy entry and exit Plastic molded shin plate covered by a pressure stamped section of leather Internal support is provided by injection-molded plastic on the ankles Internal heel counter Internal toe counter is layered under the leather Alpinestars exclusive vulcanized compound sole with unique side wrapping design Water-resistant full-grain oil leather upper Injected PU shifter area Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex reg; lining Soft micro fiber instep flex zone Removable anatomic perforated foot bed Velcro reg; calf adjustment Multi-density EVA padding Rear reflective insert for increased visibility

B-2 Gore-Tex Boots $325 Sidi B-2 Gore-Tex Boots The all new B-2 Gortex boot is perfect for the street sport rider. Lined with an official Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane you wont have to worry about staying dry and you can focus on more important things like riding! Features: Composite inner sole Dual compound sole Vertebra system Achilles and rear calf protection panel Malleolus external guard to enhance protection of those tender small foot bones Replaceable nylon toe scuff pad Replaceable outer ankle protective cap Nylon shin deflector plate Fully encapsulated heel cup DuPont polymer toe shift pad Equipped with a GORE-TEX waterproof-breathable membrane An elastic panel adjacent to the entry zipper allows a bind free zip and improved fit Removable arch support Double stitched in all high stress areas Zipper and Velcro closure system Lorica outer construction Perforated Teflon treated nylon lining

Durban Gore-Tex Boots $479.95 Alpinestars Durban Gore-Tex Boots The Durban is a new concept boot direct from the Alpinestars Technical Fashion Design Studio. The people who created Nero have designed and developed a boot literally from the ground - up to accompany the rider who uses his trail tourer for running into town on the commute and taking off for the hills over the weekend. Style and function set the Durban Gore-Tex reg; apart as a flexible comfortable and eminently practical solution everyday use whatever the surface and whatever the weather with the added benefit of a 100 waterproof and breathable Gore membrane Features: Full grain ultra soft leather upper construction for supple feel and flexibility. Full 100 waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex reg; membrane liner with wide gusset protection across the boot aperture for weather protection. Lateral double injection TPU section for rear outer foot protection with hard compound upper section for security and buckle mounting and softer lower section for flexibility. Outer and inner ankle protection is given by innovative double injected TPU section with different durometer hardness values and thicknesses to allow protection and flexibility all in one section. These protectors are covered by the leather outer skin. Unique single piece medial outer leather panel covers the inner leg heel and inner fore-foot to give a very clean smooth surface for contact with the bike. Ankle is protected by a wrap around extension of the medial boot surface panel with two-layer EVA foam shaped for fit feel and comfort. Toe-box is re-enforced for protection and covered by the boots medial outer panel. Shin protection built-in to the boot structure and hidden below the outer surface leather. Three ergonomically shaped aluminum buckles providing easy comfortable and secure snap closure with micro-adjustable memory straps for adjustability. The buckle attachment points feature a unique replaceable bridge to guide and secure the strap effectively. Wide entry aperture for convenience with Velcro reg; upper closure flap to allow broad ranging calf fit adjustment. Padded gaiter to insulate the boot inner and foot against the elements. Mesh liner for comfort. Wide flex bellows in Achilles and in-step to give flexibility and comfort both on and off the bike. Out sole is triple injected rubber giving three different compounds in the same section for ultimate feel durability and grip. Hard compound pedal and shifter inserts for riding comfort and protection and softer heel and fore-foot sections for grip and shock absorption. New lasting technology gives a close comfortable fit while an over-injected Polypropylene PP mid-sole gives full foot re-enforcement from heel to toe for safety. Anatomical foot bed ensures riding comfort. Full CE certification proves all-Round Protection.

Tech Touring Gore-Tex Boots $349.95 Alpinestars Tech Touring Gore-Tex Boots The Tech Touring Gore-Tex boot provides the rider with a CE certified all weather riding boot that is robust waterproof and secure for the toughest riding conditions. Utilizing a Gore-Tex? membrane it provides the perfect year round boot for the touring or commuter rider looking for a product to cover all prevailing conditions. Features: Constructed using full grain leather bonded with a Gore-Tex reg; membrane for the ultimate in waterproof performance Fitted with instep and Achilles flex zones which work together to provide the rider with freedom of lateral movement The boot features a host of safety features including dual density ankle protection internally molded shin heel and toe reinforcements and a PU toe shifter panel which provides feel and protection around the fore-foot and prevents pinching when changing gear The Gore-Tex reg; membrane provides a 100 waterproof lining whilst maintaining excellent levels of breathability providing the perfect boot for year round riding Complex multi layer construction consists of full grain leather outer and a protective knit layer bonded above the main Gore-Tex membrane Under this a non-woven layer sits above the internal lining ensuring that the foot stays dry and comfortable at all times The Gore-Tex membrane contains 9 billion microscopic pores per square inch which are large enough to allow heat vapor out but being 20 000 times smaller than a water droplet makes the membrane completely waterproof from the outside A rear reflective insert provides extra visibility at nighttime Alpinestars exclusive vulcanized compound oil resistant sole provides a seamless connection to the boot and provides optimum grip performance and durability

VASQUE Toddler K Boot $24.98 This hiking boot from Vasque features a full grain cordura upper with Gore-Tex technology to help you on all the trails you explore.

Vertigo Mega Gore-Tex Boots $395 Sidi Vertigo Mega Gore-Tex Boots Shock Absorbing Heel Cup: Three stage shock absorbing heel cup molded in three different densities of plastic is one element that sets the Vertigo series apart from all other sport boots. This system offers a built in shock absorbing range of 3mm. The heel cups internal area is also fully lined with impact resistant thousand-air cell memory foam for and extra level of comfort and protection. Lining: Each Vertigo series boot is lined throughout with lightweight perforated Teflon treated fabric in order to allow moisture to ldquo;breath rdquo; out to the Lorica outer and dry quickly with no mold build up in the long term. Additionally the inner ankle area of all Vertigo series boots are flly lined with Sidi rsquo;s own formula of perforated closed thousand-air cell memory foam. Tecno VR System: The Vertigo series of boots are the only race boots to offer a patented Tecno VR adjustable calf system designed to accommodate calves of virtually any size in a clean supportive and protective design. With a simple adjustment of the Tecno knob the internal onofilament line will evenly close and wrap the boot around the riders calf in micro adjustments for a perfect fit. A maximum adjustment of 5cm is provided. Replaceable Shin Deflector and Scuff Pad: The Vertigo Series offers interchangeability with its front shin guard and toe scuff pads. Choose from carbon or nylon shin piece and either a ceramic or nylon toe scuff. Air Vent System: Both the Vertigo Corsa and Vertigo employ an air ventilation system that can be opened or closed with a touch of a button depending upon a riders needs. This Malleolus guard on the outer edge of each boot also protects the small and vulnerable foot bones. Composite Inner Sole: The composite inner sole of Sidi boots resists side to side compression offering greater protection compared to the leather inner soles that our competitors use. The insole features a removable arch support and will never lose its dynamic characteristics even after months of intense use; it is water resistant and is designed to withstand high footpeg pressures. Replaceable Parts: Every bolt on component of each Vertigo boot is available separately. Riders can change the various components to replace items that have worn or have been damaged in a crash. Lorica reg;: Boots outer is fully constructed with Lorica a composite micro fiber material created from strands less than one thousandth the thickness of silk. When injected with special resins these fibers act like natural leather skin but with the addition of better strength softer texture lighter weight and better moisture protection. Features: The patented and trademarked Vertebra System protects the rider rsquo;s Achilles tendon Replaceable thermoplastic resin ankle ball protection cup Bolt on no Velcro! replaceable adjustable and aerodynamic nylon scuff pads on the toe Removable arch support Double stitched in

VASQUE Men's V Hiking Boot $179.99 This hiking boot from Vasque features a full grain cordura upper with Gore-Tex technology to help you on all the trails you explore.

Articolo 80 Alto Gore-Tex Boots $379.95 Alpinestars Articolo 80 Alto Gore-Tex Boots The Articolo 80 concept combines functionality with sleek contemporary styling. There is a hint of the boot worn by western frontiersmen that epitomizes the spirit of those looking to blaze a trail with a bike and a trend. Features: Premium materials and state-of-the-art craftsmanship Supple full-grain Italian leather The toe protection includes a molded TPU slider to resist abrasion and is positioned in a way that maximizes flexibility Anatomic dual-density TPU ankle protection Elastic cuff adjusts the boot to fit a range of calf sizes Velcro flap weatherproofs the elastic cuff and secures the fit Minimal sole reduces weight and maximizes flexibility and the even tread pattern gives a more predictable grip Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex reg; lining with gusseted zipper

Articolo 76 Alto Gore-Tex Boots $359.95 Alpinestars Articolo 76 Alto Gore-Tex Boots A streamlined integration of the past and the present the Articolo 76 combines the original 1979 Oscar-winning upper design with modern performance protection. Colored as if taken directly from the old black and white catalogues the front facing stripes are a sophisticated grey-scale version of the original Italian red white and green. Features: Premium materials and state-of-the-art craftsmanship Supple full-grain Italian leather TPU protection on the toe and heel are designed to dissipate impact energy across the foot The heel protection only partly visible is molded with multiple densities of TPU to give proper protection support and fit without sacrificing comfort Minimal sole reduces weight and maximizes flexibility and the even tread pattern gives a more predictable grip Flag colors modified to match those in the original one-color catalogues Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex reg; lining with gusseted zipper

Durban Gore-Tex Pants $499.95 Alpinestars Durban Gore-Tex Pants Multifabric shell construction; a blend of fabrics that provides the most favorable combination of durability protection and weight Lightweight polyamide main construction with protective polyamide inserts Robust medial lower end leather panel gives extra abrasion resistance Alpinestars patented Vector knee construction for superior comfort in the riding position without reducing mobility Removable CE certified lightweight knee protectors High visibility reflective stripes integrated in the design Superfabric reg; ceramic coated welded reinforcements enhance the tear and abrasion resistance qualities of the pants Lightweight removable Paclite Gore-Tex reg; membrane with micro-fleece inserts provides waterproofing and allows the garment to breathe Articulated rear panel for extra support and ease of movement Extended air intake located on knee panel helps keep the pant well ventilated Two external 100 waterproof pockets on the side of the pant Internal waist connection zipper for attaching to riding jackets Removable bib and braces gives the rider the option of an extra secure form of fitment The Durban pant is designed to accommodate the fitment of Enduro MX Adventure and Touring style riding boots

Super Tech Touring Gore-Tex Boots $459.95 Alpinestars Super Tech Touring Gore-Tex Boots Made with full-grain leather with a breathable waterproof Gore-Tex reg; membrane Double density injected TPU ankles protection Double-density injected TPU ankles protection Injected TPU shifter area Removable EVA foam sole for excellent shock absorption and impact protection Innovative dual side closure: Inner side entry exit has an elastic mounted zipper and extra wide Velcro reg; flap for a precise fit and a wide opening aperture for easy access. External calf closure provides additional adjustability with a Velcro reg;-closure Elastic microfiber accordion on front and rear below Calf fit is customizable with a dual Velcro reg; tab adjuster and inner stretch panel Additional internal quick lace panels for customized fit and extra waterproofing. Lacing has slide locking system with Velcro ended tab for extra secure no slip lacing. Exclusive compound rubber sole provides the optimum in grip performance and durability Extra TPU injection protection on the front sole area Supertech Touring Gore-Tex reg; is CE certified

X-Five Gore-Tex Touring Boots $215.99 TCX X-Five Gore-Tex Touring Boots The TCX X-Five Gore-Tex Touring Boot System trade; patent used in racing and off road biking and the Metatarsal Control System reg; which has for years been an important reference point in the motorcycle sector. Comfort Fit System CFS TCX products in the Touring Range are manufactured using techniques that ensure a high quality fit: the Comfort Fit System ldquo;form moulding rdquo; through which the upper is shaped on a mould that reproduces the anatomy of the human foot. The Touring Range is therefore extremely versatile and high quality with high tech products that can also be used casually and in the city. Full Grain Leather The uppers of the TCX reg; Touring range are made using full grain leather. This is the most valuable part of the leather which is specially treated and rendered waterproof. The result is an upper in a natural material that gives exceptional performance in terms of protection from atmospheric agents breathability and fit. High performance Touring Sole Touring Range models have a high-tech sole in a single density compound that is highly resistant to oil and hydrocarbons. The mixed tread pattern gives excellent safe reliable grip in every part of the sole for all conditions. Technical performance is combined with a superior level of comfort thanks to the EVA inner foam layer that has the dual function of absorbing vibration and thanks to its extreme lightness of lightening the overall weight of sole. Gore-Tex Membrane reg; The application of the Gore-tex reg; membrane offers an optimal combination of breathability and insulation granting the feet to stay warm and dry never sweaty even in extreme conditions. The durable waterproof protection stops moisture from seeping in. Technical Details: Upper: full grain leather Lining: GORE-TEX reg; membrane Protections: rubber ANTI IMPACT malleolous protection micro injected shift pad; shin plate reinforced heel counter Color: Black Sole: touring sole oil and petrol resistant with specific grip area Sizes: EU 36-48 US 6-13