What is the difference between the colour fastness to rubbing of textiles and leather? In what method is the color fastness to rubbing of shoe material tested?
Over the years, we have received many inquiries from our customers about these issues, and today PFI experts have detailed answers for you.
The main test methods
1. Colour fastness to rubbing for textiles
- ISO 105-X12
- GB/T 3920
- AATCC TM8
Also available are ISO 105-X16 and GB/T 29865: colour fastness to rubbing – small areas. This method is specially used for small areas printing or dyeing textiles. However, this method is rarely used in practice.
2. Colour fastness to rubbing for leather
- ISO 11640
- QB/T 2537
Differences in test methods
1. Principle
The principle of color fastness detection of these two materials is the same, the fastness of the dye is checked by reciprocating straight line rubbing motion on the sample surface. But for leather, check the surface for color changes and even record any visible changes or breakage if needed.
2. Testing equipment
The equipment of color fastness detection of these two materials is the different.
A. Testing equipment and parameter for textiles

- Downward force:(9±0.2)N
- Rubbing finger:2 alternative sizes of rubbing fingers. For pile fabrics, including textile floor coverings: rubbing finger rounded measuring 19 mm × 25,4 mm. For other textiles, rubbing finger comprised of a cylinder of (16 ± 0,1) mm diameter.
- Track:(104±3)mm
- Rate:1 cycle per second
- Rubbing material:cotton rubbing cloth
B. Testing equipment and parameter for leather

- Downward force:1000g(normal leather)、500g(suede or similar leather)。
- Area of rubbing material:15 mm×15 mm
- Track:(35 mm~40 mm)
- Rate:(40±2)cycles per minute
- Rubbing material:wool felt
3. Test condition
Colour fastness to rubbing for textiles
- Dry rubbing
- Wet rubbing (wet rubbing material)
Colour fastness to rubbing for leather
- Dry rubbing
- Wet rubbing (wet rubbing material)
- Wet (wet sample)
- Perspiration
4. Rubbing rate
- Textile: The testing standard specifies the rubbing rate, 10 cycles for dry and 10 for wet condition.
- Leather: The testing standard does not specify the rubbing rate which is determined by the product standard or the negotiation between the buyer and the seller.
Colour fastness to rubbing for footwear materials
1. Test standard:
- ISO 17700 Method A
- QB/T 2882 method A
2. Equipment and procedure:
Colour fastness to rubbing for footwear materials is basically the same as leather. Here are some common footwear standards for colour fastness rubbing.
GB/T 15107-2013 Athletic shoes
Requirements of colour fastness rubbing:Wet rubbing 50 cycles: ≥2-3 grade
Testing materials:Lining and insole
QB/T 1002-2015 leather shoes
Requirements of colour fastness rubbing:
- Wet rubbing 10 cycles: ≥3 grade /suede leather≥2 grade
Testing materials:Lining and insole
QB/T 2955-2017 Casual shoes
Requirements of colour fastness rubbing:
Wet rubbing 50 cycles: ≥2-3 grade
Testing materials:Lining and insole
GB/T 36975-2018 General requirements for footwear
Requirements of colour fastness rubbing:
- Web rubbing 50 cycles:
- Suede ≥2 grade
- Fur, artificial fur ≥3 grade
- Other material ≥2-3 grade
Testing materials:Lining and insole
ISO/TR 2882:2007 Footwear — Performance requirements for components for footwear — Liningand insocks
Requirements of colour fastness rubbing:
- ≥3 (grey scale) after 50 cycles with perspiration solution
Testing materials:–