Not trying to speak for Jock or anything, but I'm not sure suede would be classified as hard wearing enough by some.
What I mean is, suede has a tendency to go greasy-looking when handled much, so would have a shorter working life than leather. This factor alone would steer me away from it, as I like things that will last my lifetime, and the childrens lifetimes as well!

...that's just my thoughts though!!