What Is Faux Leather?

Faux leather, also known as artificial leather, is a hand made material that is made to look and feel like real leather. It is made from plastic substances such as (PU) or (PVC). Moreover, like real leather it is also used to make men and women leather jackets as well as home and furniture items.
Characteristics of Faux Leather

As I mentioned earlier, faux leather is a man made alternative to real leather, made to mimic the look and feel without using animal hides. Here are some of its characteristics:
Affordable
They are quite affordable, you will find lots of artificial leather jackets that are cheaper than real leather jackets.
Cruelty-Free
Faux leather is hand made, so it’s a great option for vegans and others who do not like to use animal products.
Versatile
It comes in a wide range of textures, colors and design which makes it easy to match any style with ease.
What Is Real Leather?
Real leather is made from animal hides including cows, goats and sheep. It has been used for decades to make leather jackets and other high-quality leather items. That is why buying real leather is a long term investment because it gets better with age.
Characteristics of Real Leather
Real leather is known for its strong appearance. Its natural grain and smell is sign for long lasting quality

Durability
Real leather is popular for its strength and long-lasting nature. It can withstand daily wear and tear while aging beautifully over time.
Breathability
Unlike faux, real leather is breathable, air can circulate and regulate body temperature easily.
Natural Aging
Over time, it develops a rich and natural patina that improves its character and appeal.
Difference Between Real Leather and Synthetic Leather?

Both faux and real leather have their own unique qualities, but they are different in many ways. Understanding what sets them apart may help you select the most suitable option according to your needs.
| Feature | Real Leather | Faux Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Made from animal hides | Made from plastic and fabric |
| Texture | Natural, unique grain | Smooth or patterned, uniform |
| Durability | Long-lasting, gets better with age | Less durable, may crack over time |
| Cost | Expensive | More affordable |
| Feel | Soft, flexible and breathable | Can feel stiff or plastic |
| Smell | Has a rich, natural leather scent | Often odorless or has chemical smell |
| Maintenance | Needs conditioning | Easy to clean |
| Eco Impact | Biodegradable but resource-heavy | Animal free but not biodegradable |
Real vs Faux Leather Jackets: Which One Should You Choose?
Now that we know the basics of both material and what sets them apart. Let's compare leather jackets made from each, both for men and women, to help you decide which one to buy.

Texture and Appearance
Faux Leather
Faux leather can look like real leather but they do not have the natural texture that gives real one a luxurious feel. This type of leather has a uniform appearance and can feel less supple or soft.
Real Leather
Real leather has a rich and textured surface that gives each jacket a unique and marvelous look. Compared to artificial, real leather is quite softer and more flexible.
Durability
Faux Leather
It is less durable than real leather. Artificial leather can crack over time especially with heavy use or exposure to the elements.
Real Leather
A premium quality leather jacket can last for decades only when you care for it from time to time. The natural strength makes it resistant to wear and tear and becomes more beautiful with age.
Cost
Faux Leather
Faux leather jackets are more pocket friendly which makes it a great option for those who are looking for premium style within their budget
Real Leather
They are a premium investment and typically cost significantly more due to their quality and craftsmanship.
Maintenance
Faux Leather
Easy to clean and maintain. You can clean it with a damp cloth without using any conditioner. Although, they can easily get damaged by peeling and splitting especially when exposed to extreme high or low temperatures.
Real Leather
Requires professional care and maintenance. To keep it in good condition, you need to clean it with high quality leather care products. However, with the right care and maintenance, it can last a lifetime.
Environmental Impact
Faux Leather
Synthetic leather is cruelty free, it’s made from plastic materials like PVC and PU. This can contribute to environmental pollution, especially on plastic waste.
Real Leather
Real leather is a natural material from animals that biodegrades over time. However, the leather industry has an impact on the environment such as carbon footprint from livestock production and use of different chemicals in the tanning process of leather.
How to Choose the Right Leather Jacket for You
When choosing between faux and real leather it’s important to set your budget and how you plan to wear the jacket. Here are a few things to consider before you decide to buy:

Budget
If you have set your budget then faux leather is the affordable choice. However, if you prefer quality over budget then real leather is a long term investment.
Durability and Usage
Real leather lasts longer and ages beautifully, which makes it perfect for everyday wear. Meanwhile, faux is for occasional use and will wear out faster.
Ethical Considerations
Fake leather is cruelty free and for those who avoid animal products. Real leather is from nature and involves different animal hides.
Expert Opinion
Experts prefer real leather because it is a long time investment. However, synthetic leather has come a long way and is a smart choice for conscious buyers.




