When shopping for a leather jacket, it’s essential to know how to distinguish between real and synthetic materials. While synthetic materials like PU leather may look and feel similar to the real thing, they lack the natural beauty, durability, and value of authentic leather.
Knowing how to identify a real leather jacket can help you make an informed purchase and ensure that you’re getting the quality and style you desire. In this blog, we’ll explore the characteristics of real leather, provide tips for identifying it, and help you become a savvy shopper when it comes to buying a leather jacket.
Look at the price
Real leather jackets are typically more expensive than PU leather jackets. If you come across a jacket that seems too good to be true in terms of price, it may be a sign that it’s made from PU leather.
Read more “How to care for a faux leather jacket?”
Check the texture
Real leather has a unique texture and grain pattern that is difficult to replicate with synthetic materials. Look closely at the surface of the jacket – if it has a consistent texture or looks too perfect, it may be PU leather. Real leather, on the other hand, will have slight imperfections and variations in texture.
Smell the jacket
Real leather has a distinct smell that is difficult to replicate with synthetic materials. Take a whiff of the jacket – if it has a chemical or plastic-like smell, it may be made from PU leather.
Look for the label
A label that says “genuine leather” or “real leather” is a good indicator that the jacket is made from real leather. However, keep in mind that some manufacturers may use the term “leather” even if the jacket is made from a blend of real and synthetic materials.
Check the lining
Real leather jackets typically have high-quality lining materials, such as silk or cotton. PU leather jackets may have lower-quality lining materials, such as polyester or nylon.
Burn test
The burn test can help identify the material used in the jacket. Cut off a small piece from a hidden area, light it with a match or lighter, and observe. Real leather burns slowly with a distinct smell, while PU leather melts and burns quickly with a plastic-like smell.
Look for natural imperfections
Real leather is a natural material, so it will have natural imperfections like scars, wrinkles, and variations in color and texture. PU leather is manufactured to be uniform and consistent, so it won’t have these natural imperfections.
Test the flexibility
Real leather will be more flexible than PU leather. You can test this by bending and twisting the jacket – real leather will flex and crease, while PU leather may crack or peel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, identifying a genuine leather jacket can be tricky, but with the 9 ways outlined in this guide, you should now have the knowledge to distinguish between real and fake leather. R
emember to pay attention to the texture, smell, and appearance of the leather, as well as any branding or labeling on the jacket. By using these methods, you can avoid being duped by faux leather jackets and ensure you are investing in a quality, long-lasting product that will stand the test of time.
Also, check the “how to remove smell from a leather jacket.”
