Leather for eons has been a symbol of style, durability, and luxury. In furniture, clothing, accessories, or even a real leather jacket, it is very much what people go to for that which is classic and lasting. But with the advent of synthetic alternatives the debate between real and faux leather has grown more so then ever before. This guide we will take you through it all from the basics of real and faux leather, the differences between them, and also we will answer the most common questions.
Understanding Real Leather:
Real leather is from animal skin mostly of cows. It goes through a tanning process which makes it very durable and of long wear. The touch, smell and in some cases the grain marks which are unique to each piece are what makes real leather a favorite of those that go for the authentic look. Also it is a pricier option but with proper care may last for decades.
Understanding Faux Leather:
Faux leather what is also referred to as synthetic or artificial leather is made from materials like polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is designed to look like real leather which is what it does very well. Also unlike the real thing it is a more affordable option and easier to care for. Also it does not require you to condition it and also you will find it comes in a wider range of colors and finishes, whether in accessories, furniture, or even a faux leather jacket.
Key Differences:
- Durability: Natural leather can wear well for over a decade as opposed to faux leather which typically decays in 5 to 10 years.
- Cost: Faux leather is a more affordable option.
- Maintenance: Faux leather is easy to clean, also real leather requires special care.
- Look and Feel: Real leather has character marks and a unique smell. Faux leather tends to look more even out of the gate.
- Sustainability: Real leather which is made from animal hides, but is a durable material, while faux leather is an animal friendly option which is made from plastic.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between Real and faux leathers?
Real leather and also faux leather are the same in many cases. We use the term real leather when we are sure that no animal products are used, which is also what makes it a more specific term. Faux leather on the other hand is a very broad term which is used for any material that is put forth as an alternative to real leather.
2. What is the difference between air and faux leather?
Air leather is a kind of faux leather which we see through a breathable microfiber layer that which is very soft and very comfortable in particular for use in furniture. It is in fact a version of faux leather which we have for your comfort and texture.
3. What is the difference between bonded and faux leather?
Bonded leather is made of shreds of leather that weaved in with a polyurethane coating. It does have some real leather in it but is not to be classified as full grain. As for faux leather, it does not include any leather at all and is fully synthetic.
4. What’s the difference between fake and real leather?
Faux leather is man made and made to look like real leather, as opposed to natural which is sourced from animal skin. Natural leather is also usually better in terms of strength, breathability and also it changes character in appearance over time.
5. What does real leather compare to fake?
Faux leather is a man made material as opposed to real leather which is of animal origin. Real leather has a natural look and smell which is not present in faux leather which has a more uniform and artificial finish.
6. How do you tell real from fake leather?
- Smell: Real leather has a scent of the earth; faux leather has a more chemical smell.
- Grain: Real leather has irregular pores; faux leather is very even.
- Touch: Natural leather is soft and warm, at the same time faux leather may be cold and stiff.
- Water Test: A drop of water will be absorbed by real leather but will sit on top of faux leather.
7. Is it one hundred percent leather?
No, what we have is not real leather. It is a synthetic material which may look and feel like leather but does not contain any animal skin.
8. Is faux leather better than real?
The answer depends on your priorities: The answer is based on what you value most:
- For Durability and Longevity: Leather of the best quality does. It may last for decades with the right care.
- For Price and Maintenance: Synthetic leather is a more budget friendly and easy care option.
- For Style Variety: Faux leather has a greater color and finish range.
- For Ethical Reasons: Faux leather is an option for those that do not support animal products which includes vegans.
Is does Faux Leather Better for the Environment?
This is a difficult issue. We get real leather from animal hides and we use chemicals in the tanning process which in turn impacts the environment. As for faux leather we don’t use animal products but we do use plastic based materials like PVC and PU which do not break down. But we are seeing in to date innovations of plant based vegan leathers (pineapple or mushroom leather) which is making the faux leather choice a more eco friendly option.
Final Thoughts:
Between real and faux leather it is a choice of what you value most and what you are willing to pay. If you go for authenticity, durability and a product that will develop character over time then real leather is the way to go. But if you are more into affordability, choice and ethics that is what faux leather is for. In fashion, furniture and lifestyle products both real and fake leather have a spot and with the introduction of plant based options the future of leather alternatives is ve