We often hear about "Faux leather" and "Vegan leather", but what is the difference with Genuine (Real) leather? what distinguishes the various types? Let's find out together.

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Difference between Faux Leather and Genuine Leather

Real Leather

Genuine leather has unique and inimitable characteristics: for this reason even the most famous luxury brands, nowadays extremely attentive to environmental sustainability, choose to use it instead of other materials defined as "eco" but which in reality are not. This concept also applies to most everyday objects: since genuine leather has unique and long-lasting qualities and is in the vast majority of cases the material to be preferred. The main advantages of genuine leather that distinguish it from imitation leather or eco-leather are:

• High resistance: genuine leather has greater resistance than other materials which tend to deteriorate over time.

• Breathability: unlike rubber or plastic, genuine leather is breathable, it lets air pass like fabric, so it is more comfortable to use or to wear.

• Water repellency: thanks to some processes, the leather can be resistant to water, while remaining breathable.

• It does not age: the more time passes, the more genuine leather acquires unique and inimitable characteristics.

• It is thermal insulating: genuine leather insulates more from both cold and heat than other types of material.

• It is hygienic

• It is recycled material: animals are not killed for their skin: sheep, pigs and cattle are raised for food needs, not using the skin would mean making their sacrifice in vain. For this reason, using genuine leather helps the environment by reducing waste from the food industry and at the same time ennobling the sacrifice of these animals.

• It is beautiful: genuine leather has a different charm and feel than objects made with alternative materials.

• It is ecological or Bio: genuine leather can be defined as follows, especially in the case of vegetable tanned leather, since substances are used that are not harmful to humans and the environment that have a very low environmental impact and in some cases close to zero.

Faux Leather

Faux leather, also called "eco-leather", does not have any element of animal origin or organic origin as it is an industrial product made entirely of plastic materials (i.e. PVC, such as polyurethane, hence the name of "PU or PVC Leather ") on which prints are printed or plastic films are applied in order to reproduce the look and feel of real leather.

There are different types of faux leather or faux leather, based on the materials and production processes used you can get results that differ from a qualitative point of view, so you can find a better fake leather than others, but when it comes to characteristics, eco-leather can never reach quality or excel in comparison with genuine leather.

Faux leather, in fact, can last for several years, but over time it will still tend to deteriorate, creating creases or scratches; on the contrary, real leather will tend to improve over time and become more unique and beautiful, especially when the product is based on vegetable tanning. Genuine leather ages but hardly gets damaged!

In conclusion, the main disadvantages of faux leather or faux leather are:

• It is not eco-sustainable, as it is produced with plastic materials deriving from the petroleum industry.
• It is not breathable.
• It is less comfortable.

The only advantage over genuine leather is usually that it is a cheaper material, which therefore costs less, but at the expense of the environment.

What is Vegan Leather? Difference with Genuine Leather

The so-called "vegan leather" deserves a separate paragraph, as it is considered an alternative material to the use of products of animal origin, but compared to imitation leather or eco-leather it has different characteristics.

Some leathers are called "vegan", as they are produced using materials such as cork, algae, leaves or other compounds of an organic nature. The production process of vegan leather does not negatively affect the environment but the materials obtained have very important limits of use and quality compared to genuine leather which we can summarize in the following points:

• Poor strength and durability, vegan leather lasts much less than real leather.
• Poor workability and versatility, vegan leather is only suitable for the production of certain objects.
• High production costs, even though vegan leather is a recycled material, it can cost more than one square meter compared to real leather.
• Poor quality and feel, vegan leather is not comparable to real leather from a qualitative point of view.
• It is not zero impact, that is, it is not 100% sustainable, as means and machinery that have fossil fuels as their energy source are often used for its production.

Difference between Vegan Leather and Faux Leather

More and more often, however, we erroneously hear about "vegan leather" and "eco-leather" or "faux leather" as if they were the same thing even if they are not. As already mentioned, eco-leather or faux leather is made with plastic materials, which, while not using products of animal origin, have a strong impact on the environment, since plastic products deriving from petroleum and therefore highly polluting for the production are used. our planet. Vegan leather, on the other hand, is produced only with materials of organic origin (not animal), for this reason it is more sustainable and pollutes less, but it has numerous and important limitations compared to real leather, first of all the fact that it is not impact resistant. zero environmental.

Conclusions: the false myth of the so-called "Vegan Leathers"

In conclusion, "vegan leather", "faux leather" and "eco-leather" are (in the vast majority of cases) alternative materials to real leather, often confused with each other, which represent a false myth, more polluting and less sustainable then genuine leather. Much better then, if you want to make an ethical and sustainable choice, continue to use real leather (better if vegetable tanned) just like the main luxury and fashion brands are doing.

Genuine Leather: the real eco-sustainable leather

Given that even chrome tanned leathers see most of the pollutants involved in their production cycle, recovered (about 95%) through the cutting-edge systems we have in Tuscany, the most eco-sustainable material is genuine leather (or real leather) vegetable tanned. This is due to several factors, among the main ones we find:

• Use only natural substances.
• It has a low environmental impact.
• The animals of bovine and ovine origin are not raised for their skin, but for the meat, the skin is already in itself a waste material which, if not tanned, would otherwise be disposed of. (This is obviously true both for vegetable tanning and for all other types of tanning).

How often do you shop for leather pieces, and do you know which one to go for? The truth is that if you have never bought real leather before you won't be able to tell the difference between other types of leather. Luckily, we will break it down for you! Throughout the years, leather has been a symbol of luxury, durability, and style in the world of fashion and design. However, as ethical and sustainable practices gain importance, alternative materials have stepped into the spotlight, making it more affordable for other people to get their hands on them. Two such contenders, often used interchangeably, are PU leather and faux leather. In this article, we'll delve into everything that you may want to know on the topic of PU leather and faux leather. Keep on reading and find your answers down below.

PU Leather VS Faux Leather: Top 9 Things You Will Want To Know

1. What Is PU Leather?

PU leather, or Polyurethane leather, is a synthetic material designed to mimic the appearance and texture of genuine leather. It is the most popular kind of leather when it comes to retail, as well as when it comes to producing bags. It consists of a fabric base, commonly polyester or cotton, coated with a layer of polyurethane—a versatile polymer known for its durability and flexibility. This artificial alternative has gained popularity due to its cost-effectiveness, adaptability, and cruelty-free nature. Why is it so loved? Well, it isn't cruel to animals, and it is easy to replicate in bigger factories. With its capacity to replicate the visual and tactile qualities of traditional leather, coupled with its affordability and ethical considerations, PU leather has become a widely embraced material in the fashion industry and upholstery.

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2. What Are The Pros Of PU Leather?

Here are a couple of reasons why you may love this product and this fabric:

A) It is affordable - this budget-friendly option is for everyone, especially those who love to shop online or in smaller stores, as not everyone can afford genuine Italian leather. As it is affordable it can easily be reached by, enjoyed, and purchased by younger demographics and people in Europe, Asia, USA, etc.
 
B) Different options to go for - through a carefully engineered manufacturing process, this synthetic material opens the door to a diverse spectrum of colors, textures, and finishes. Designers and consumers benefit from this flexibility, enabling them to explore and experiment with a myriad of creative expressions.
 
C) Cruelty-free option - nowadays a lot of people are trying to be aware of what they're purchasing or consuming. We have labels for everything and everyone: organic, natural, vegan, you name it! This is why PU is such a loved option, it is cruelty-free. If you want to be aware of your surroundings you will love this idea and any product made from it.
 
D) Easy to maintain: Cleaning and caring for PU leather products is very easy to do and it is generally straightforward, requiring less effort and specialized care compared to genuine leather. This ease of maintenance adds a practical dimension, enhancing the appeal of PU leather for everyday use. You can clean it with a cloth, a bit of water, or even at your favorite dry cleaning for such an affordable price point.

3. What Is Faux Leather?

Faux leather, also known as artificial or synthetic leather, is a sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to traditional leather. It is also a form of artificial leather that is easy to produce and find when looking at most stores. It can be crafted from either PU leather (the one we already spoke about) or fabrics such as PVC-polyvinyl chloride. Its versatile production process involves layering these materials to create a durable, leather-like surface. Embraced for its affordability and eco-friendly attributes, faux leather meets the growing demand for sustainable fashion and interior design, offering consumers a stylish and ethical choice in the pursuit of cruelty-free living.

4. What Are The Pros Of Faux Leather?

A) Sustainability: Faux leather, crafted from eco-friendly materials, minimizes the environmental impact associated with traditional leather production and supports sustainable practices. It is also very easy to find in most stores. Every product you end up purchasing will have a label on it, which will allow you to know what you're working with and what are you getting for yourself.
 
B) Versatility: The diverse manufacturing processes of faux leather provide a broad spectrum of styles, colors, and textures, allowing for flexibility in design choices across different applications. You will easily find loads of different bags, wallets, jackets, and even furniture items made with this item. Not only that, but you will also find it in different colors, shades, and patterns that aren't easily accessible everywhere.
 
C) Consistency: Faux leather maintains a uniform appearance and texture, ensuring product consistency and simplifying the achievement of specific aesthetic goals, a feature not always found in natural leather. You will enjoy all the little details that are perfectly placed and looked into when it comes to your chosen items.
 
D) Durability: Did you know that faux leather is known for its resilience? If you are someone who prefers high-quality products and you want something that is durable and resistant to water and tear, you will love its features! Although it isn't as good as your favorite leather piece, its durability is still going to surprise you.

5. What Are Their Key Similarities?

If you want to know how these two are alike and quite similar to one another, here is what you have to understand:

• Faux leather or PU leather are synthetic materials that have the appearance and feel of real leather. They are quite a lot when looked into through a regular unexperienced eye, but a true craftmanship will know the difference.
• No animal residue is used during their production or manufacture - this means that anyone who does not want to consume animal products has the option of choosing between the two.
• These materials are often more robust than leather since they do not fade, tear, or stain as easily as genuine leather.
• In terms of hues, textures, and finishes, both PU leather and faux leather items can provide a wealth of creative alternatives.
• Both synthetic and PU leather require little maintenance and may be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.

6. What Are Their Key Differences?

Now, when it comes to their differences, although quite tiny, they are still present, and the "trick" is in the details. You are looking at:

Different material composition - faux leather is a general term covering diverse synthetic materials like PVC and PU leather. In contrast, PU leather specifically refers to a type of faux leather made by coating a fabric base with polyurethane.

Base - the base of faux leather can be manufactured from various substrates, including PVC, fabric, or polyurethane. In the case of PU leather, it is a subset of faux leather that utilizes a fabric foundation.

Texture - although both faux leather and PU leather aim to replicate genuine leather's texture, the tactile experience may differ. PU leather, due to its fabric base, often offers a softer and more flexible feel compared to other types of faux leather.

Environmental impact - environmental considerations vary based on the materials used in faux leather production. Some forms of faux leather, such as PU leather, may be perceived as more environmentally friendly when compared to alternatives like PVC leather.

Price point - faux leather encompasses a range of materials, each with its associated production costs. While PU leather is generally more budget-friendly than genuine leather, its pricing may differ from other faux leather options.

Versatility - faux leather, as a broad category, presents numerous options for customization. While PU leather is highly versatile, different types of faux leather may have distinct characteristics, meeting various design preferences and application needs.

7. How To Choose Which One Is Better?

In the realm of faux leather choices, the decision between PU leather or faux leather falls down to your personal preference, budget, as well as your accessibility. You can look at your own environmental consciousness or a preference for a specific texture to narrow down the search. As you navigate this leather alternative landscape, remember to weigh the factors that matter most to you, ensuring that the chosen material not only fits your lifestyle but also aligns with your values. By making an informed decision, you're not just selecting between PU and other faux leathers; you're shaping a choice that resonates with your individuality and contributes to a more sustainable and personally satisfying approach to fashion and design.

8. What Are The Price Options Like?

The prices of PU (polyurethane) and faux leather jackets, clothes, wallets, and bags can vary widely depending on factors such as brand, quality, design, and the specific retailer. Additionally, market conditions, fashion trends, and geographic location can also influence prices. Popular fashion and department stores, as well as online marketplaces, can provide a range of options at different price points. Keep in mind that higher-quality faux leather items may be more expensive than lower-quality ones. Usually and in most cases you're looking at a price range starting from $5 and going up to $500 (which is still nowhere as expensive as genuine leather).

9. Where Can You Find Gorgeous Faux Leather Bags?

If you're in school, have a full-time job or if you're in college chances are that you will need a high-quality bag or backpack. If you want to enjoy premium bags and browse through a ton of cool and stylish options you can check out Bostanten. We were founded in and have changed fashion style ideas and approaches for most modern and workaholic women. On our site, everything is made out of high-quality materials such as Italian cowhide leather (a material coming from the processing and tanning of raw cow skin), which is a unique blend that provides and vouches for longevity. You can also find a ton of cool options that may come in handy as a birthday gift. We also sell men's bags and backpacks. Check Bostanten out and find something you love.

Ready To Shop?

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable fashion and design, PU leather and faux leather play some of the biggest roles in enjoying sustainable and affordable leather. As consumers become more conscientious about the origins of their products, understanding the distinctions between these synthetic materials empowers individuals to find something they truly want, love, and enjoy. Whether it's the affordability of PU leather or the eco-friendly aspects of faux leather, both options contribute to a more ethical and sustainable future for the fashion industry. So, are you ready to shop for your new favorite item? Let us know, we can't wait to see you rocking something new!

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