Real Leather vs Faux Leather: Key Differences

When it comes to leather products, the debate between real leather and faux leather has been going on for years. Whether you're on the hunt for a new boat seat or car seat upholstery, a couch, or any other type of upholstery, understanding the key differences between genuine leather and its synthetic counterparts is crucial.

Each material comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, which can significantly impact your decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the critical differences between real and faux leather, so you can make an informed choice that suits your needs.

What Is Real Leather?

Real leather, often referred to as genuine leather, is a natural material derived from animal hides, most commonly cows. The process of transforming animal hides into leather involves several stages, including tanning, which preserves the hide and makes it durable enough for various uses.

The Leather Production Process

The production of real leather starts with animal hides that undergo a tanning process. There are different types of tanning, with vegetable tanning and chrome tanning being the most common. Vegetable-tanned leather uses natural tannins from plant materials, resulting in a more eco-friendly product, while chrome tanning relies on chemicals to achieve a quicker and more uniform finish. Real leather comes in various quality levels:

• Full grain leather: The highest quality leather, made from the top layer of animal hide, is ideal for high-wear applications like car seats and couch upholstery due to its strength and durability.
• Top grain leather: Slightly lower in quality than full grain, top grain leather is sanded down to remove imperfections, giving it a smoother finish often used in high-end furniture.
• Bonded leather: This type is made from leftover scraps of leather that are bonded together with adhesives. It’s the lowest quality but still offers a real leather feel at a lower price.

Pros of Real Leather

• Unmatched durability: Real leather is incredibly durable, standing the test of time when properly cared for. This material can last for decades, making it a solid investment for those who value longevity.
• Aesthetic appeal: The natural imperfections in real leather add character, making each piece unique.
• Ever-growing comfort: Over time, real leather softens and molds to the user’s shape, offering a seating experience that becomes more personalized with each use, whether you’re in a car, boat, or on couch.
• Distinct smell: Genuine leather has a rich, earthy scent that many people find appealing.

Cons of Real Leather

• Higher cost: Real leather is more expensive than faux leather due to its labor-intensive production process and the cost of premium raw materials. However, for many, the superior quality justifies the price.
• Ongoing maintenance: To keep real leather looking its best, regular care is needed. This includes conditioning and protection from moisture, ensuring the material remains beautiful and durable over the years.
• Environmental considerations: The production of real leather involves animal products and chemicals, which can have a notable environmental impact. This is a factor worth considering when making your choice.

What Is Faux Leather?

Faux leather, often called synthetic or fake leather, is designed to mimic the look and feel of real leather without the same cost or environmental concerns. Made from plastic polymers like polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), it’s a popular alternative for those wanting a leather-like appearance with fewer drawbacks.

The Faux Leather Production Process

Faux leather is crafted by applying a plastic polymer coating to a fabric base. The surface is then embossed to imitate the texture of genuine leather. Common types of faux leather include:

• PU leather: Crafted from polyurethane, this type is softer and more flexible, making it a closer match to the real thing.
• PVC leather: Polyvinyl chloride is tougher but less pliable, often chosen for upholstery and automotive interiors due to its durability.
• Vegan leather: This is a type of faux leather made from plant-based materials, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional leather and synthetic options.

Pros of Faux Leather

• Budget-friendly: Faux leather is much more affordable than real leather, making it a great choice for those who want the look without the hefty price tag.
• Easy to care for: One of the biggest perks of faux leather is its low maintenance. It’s easy to clean — just a quick wipe with a damp cloth usually does the trick.
• Wide range of options: Faux leather is available in countless colors and finishes, giving you the flexibility to customize your look to match any style.
• Animal-friendly: For those who avoid animal products, faux leather provides a cruelty-free alternative that still looks stylish and sophisticated.

Cons of Faux Leather

• Less longevity: Faux leather doesn’t last as long as the real deal. It’s prone to cracking or peeling, especially in areas with heavy use, which might mean more frequent replacements.
• Lacks the genuine eel: While faux leather can look convincing, it often falls short in the feel department, lacking the warmth and softness of real leather.
• Environmental concerns: Although it sidesteps animal use, faux leather is made from plastic polymers, which can have negative environmental impacts, particularly in terms of production and disposal.

Real Leather vs Faux Leather: Head-to-Head Comparison

Both options have their pros and cons, but let's make a direct comparison for each case.

By Durability: Real

When it comes to standing the test of time, real leather is the clear frontrunner. Full-grain or top-grain leather, in particular, can last a lifetime with proper care. On the other hand, faux leather, though easier to clean and more stain-resistant, often starts showing its age sooner. Cracks and peeling can appear after just a few years.

By Cost: Faux

If budget is your main concern, faux leather is your friend. It’s far more wallet-friendly, making it an attractive option for those looking to save. Real leather, while more expensive due to its quality and the effort that goes into its production, offers long-term value that can justify the initial investment.

By Environmental Impact: Tie

The environmental impact of real vs faux leather is a complex issue.

Real leather, particularly vegetable-tanned leather, is a natural material that can be more friendly to the environment if sourced responsibly. However, real leather is made from animal hides and can contribute to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions, especially in industrial farming. On the other hand, it is biodegradable and, when produced using vegetable tanning methods, can be more sustainable.

It's important to note that animals are not typically slaughtered specifically for their hides; rather, leather is a byproduct of the meat industry, where the animal skin is repurposed to reduce waste and make use of the entire animal. This makes leather production a way to utilize what would otherwise be discarded, contributing to a more sustainable approach to animal agriculture.

Faux leather, while not made from animal hides, comes from synthetic materials that are not biodegradable and can contribute to plastic pollution. Fortunately, innovations in vegan leather made from plant-based materials are offering a new, more sustainable manufacturing process.

Ultimately, there is no easy metric to determine which option has a more negative environmental impact. Faux leather avoids animal origin while being a contributor to plastic pollution.

By Aesthetics and Comfort: Real

When it comes to aesthetics and comfort, real leather is in a league of its own. The natural grain, unique imperfections, and rich texture of genuine leather give it a timeless look and feel that faux leather can only attempt to replicate.

While faux leather might visually imitate real leather, it often falls short in terms of depth and character. In terms of comfort, real leather not only feels softer but is also more breathable, making it the preferred choice for seats and furniture that need to offer more than just good looks.

By Maintenance and Care: Faux

If you’re after something low-maintenance, faux leather is the clear winner. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep faux leather looking fresh. Real leather, on the other hand, demands a bit more attention, requiring regular conditioning to prevent it from drying out and cracking.

However, this extra effort comes with a payoff — real leather’s durability means that, with the right care, it can last far longer than faux leather, making it a more sustainable choice in the long run.

By Smell: Real

One of the unmistakable hallmarks of real leather is its smell — a rich, earthy aroma that’s often associated with luxury and quality. It’s a scent that brings warmth and authenticity to any space. In contrast, faux leather often carries a chemical odor, especially when new, which can be off-putting for some. While the smell of faux leather may fade over time, it lacks the comforting, timeless scent that real leather naturally exudes.

Applications of Real and Faux Leather

Both real and faux leather have a wide range of applications, from fashion to home furnishings. Real leather is a staple in high-end products, frequently found in premium clothing, car interiors, and luxury furniture. On the other hand, faux leather is commonly used in more budget-friendly alternatives, such as affordable furniture, automotive interiors, and fashion accessories.

Leather in Automotive Upholstery

Leather has long been a symbol of luxury in automotive interiors, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. In car upholstery, leather is prized for its durability, comfort, and the way it enhances the overall driving experience. Real leather car seats, particularly those made from full-grain or top-grain leather, offer a unique combination of strength and elegance, making them a preferred choice in high-end vehicles.

The natural breathability of leather makes it comfortable in both hot and cold weather, as it adjusts to the temperature, unlike synthetic materials that can become sticky or stiff. Over time, leather car seats develop a rich patina, adding to the vehicle's character and increasing its resale value.

Leather in Furniture Upholstery

Leather furniture, whether real or faux, adds a touch of elegance to any room. Furniture upholstery made from real leather is durable and develops a patina over time, adding to its charm. Leather can be used in hotel upholstery which gives a luxurious feel to its lobbies, lounges, and guest rooms.

Faux leather furniture offers a similar look at a more affordable price, though it may not have the longevity of its real leather counterpart. High-durability faux leather is particularly popular in gym equipment upholstery, as it’s tough, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean. In medical settings, faux leather (especially medical-grade PVC or PU leather) is often used for medical table upholstery, providing a more luxurious alternative to vinyl. However, real leather is less common in these environments due to its higher cost, more intensive maintenance requirements, and lower resistance to moisture and harsh cleaning agents.

Give Your Seats the Upgrade They Deserve with Albo Restoration

Deciding between real leather and faux leather isn’t just about material — it's about how you want your space to feel and last.

Real leather offers unmatched durability, comfort, and that one-of-a-kind look that only gets better with time. If you’re after quality that stands the test of time, real leather is your go-to. On the flip side, faux leather is perfect for those who want a stylish, low-maintenance, and cruelty-free option without breaking the bank.

Whether you're looking to add a touch of luxury to your car’s interior, bring back the elegance of your boat seat upholstery, or refresh your home furniture, Albo Restoration is here to make it happen. Our skilled craftsmen are pros at reupholstering with both high-quality real leather and eco-friendly faux leather options.

We’ll take your tired, worn-out seats and transform them into something that feels brand new. Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free estimate.