Made of the highest quality leathers produced in Germany and Switzerland. All leathers are AZO free. Hides are generally spilt horizontally in two or more layers. The top layer is called full grain and the under layers are called secondary grain or second leather. Full grain leather is the highest quality leather. Full grain leather is the outer layer of the hide. It is stronger, tighter and has the natural waterproof properties of the hide.
Nubuck leather is a full grain leather but the tanned surface has a finely sanded, textured finish which give it a cosmetic appeal. It should not be confused with suede.
All Hanwag leathers are treated with a waterproofing process hydrophobierien prior to the manufacture of the boot. After the boot is made it is sprayed with a waterproof coating at the factory. The threads for sewing the seams are also subject to this process thus making them watertight. This process also waterproofs laces and stitching. The treatment is durable and helps protect the boot from scuffing.

