Inside Notabene: The materials behind our most beloved styles
Genuine European leather
At Notabene, everything starts with the material.
Every model is crafted from 100% genuine leather and hide. Natural materials of European origin, primarily from Italy. All types of leather are by-products of the food industry and selected with a focus on quality, texture, and feel.
We produce at local and family-owned shoe factories in Italy, where leather craftsmanship has been a tradition for generations. This is where the foundation for our shoes is created.
COMFORT AND DURABILITY
Natural materials work with the body. They adapt to movement and become more comfortable over time. That is why we select leather that balances softness and strength. The result is shoes that not only feel good the first time, but continue to evolve and maintain their shape season after season.
The material is the foundation
Design evolves. Silhouettes change over time.
But the quality of the material remains constant. This is where our shoes begin.
Qualities of the materials
Read our care guide
Smooth leather
Smooth leather is durable and develops a beautiful patina over time. It molds to the foot and becomes more personal with use. A material that ages with character.
Suede & nubuck
Suede and nubuck have a soft and tactile surface, which adds depth to the silhouette and a nuanced play of light.
A material with a calm, yet vibrant character.
Cow-fur
Cowhide adds structure and dimension. Each surface is unique, making each pair slightly different.
A natural material where variation is part of the beauty.
Leather soles
Our leather soles are custom-made with an applied rubber tread on the forefoot, which provides flexibility and comfort, as well as protection against moisture, while maintaining breathability.
Leather lining
Inside, we use leather lining, which allows the foot and leg to breathe and adapts naturally over time.