Full grain, suede, and nubuck: maker's terms
Which leather terms the FTC Guides use, and which they leave to the maker.
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Terms the Guides do not use
Part 24 does not use the terms full grain, suede, nubuck, patent, or genuine leather. On a label, they are the maker's terms.
Read each part
Suede and nubuck on a label are the maker's terms. For footwear, the Guides treat three parts separately: "the upper, the lining and sock, and the outersole." Read the label for each part.
A term the Guides do use
The Guides use "Top Grain Cowhide" in their examples of disclosures, such as "Top Grain Cowhide Backed With Vinyl." They do not define it.
Misrepresentation in general
Part 24 says it is "unfair or deceptive to misrepresent, directly or by implication, the kind, grade, quality, quantity, material content" of an industry product.
Whose words these are
Material words on a shoe are the maker's label, not ours. We never say any shoe is leather. We do not rank or compare leather terms.
This is general information, not legal or medical advice.
Sources: eCFR, 16 CFR Part 24, Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products.
FAQ
General information only, not medical advice. Material labels are the maker's: check the label for each part of the shoe. Fit varies by maker and by person, so check the maker's size chart and the return policy. If you have foot pain or a foot or health condition, talk to your doctor or a podiatrist.
Next: patent and embossed
Processed to look different.
