The New Balance 550 'USA' (BB550NCN) uses a combination of real cow leather (calf leather) and pigskin suede.Main Upper: The bulk of the shoe is built from a smooth, coated cow/calf leather base. This gives the sneaker its structured, durable, and retro basketball shape.Overlays: The colored blue and red accent panels on the toe and heel are made from texturized pigskin suede.Ankle Collar: The black trim wrapping around the ankle utilizes a thinner, soft leather padding.