Ruskind

Ruskind, in German, refers to suede, a type of leather with a soft, napped surface. The nap is produced by buffing or sanding the inner side of the hide, giving a velvety texture and a matte finish. Typical ruskind comes from calf, lamb, or goat hides, though it can be made from other animals. Unlike nubuk, which is created from the outer grain of the hide, ruskind uses the inner surface, resulting in a more delicate material that is more prone to staining, water damage, and wear.

Ruskind is widely used in fashion and accessories, including footwear, jackets, gloves, bags, and some upholstery. Its appealing texture and look come with the trade-off of higher maintenance compared with smooth leathers. The material may be naturally darker in some areas and can show scuffs and embossing more readily.

Care and cleaning require specialized methods. Regular maintenance includes brushing with a suede brush to lift the nap and remove surface dirt, and applying a protective suede spray to help resist moisture and stains. For marks, suede erasers or gentle spot cleaning are commonly used. Water should be avoided or minimized, as it can cause staining or texture change. For persistent or large stains, professional cleaning or restoration is recommended.

In English, the material is typically called suede; the German term ruskind highlights its origin on the inner skin. The English word suede is thought to derive from the French suède, linked to gloves from Sweden in historical fashion, reflecting the material’s long-standing role in leather goods.