Vegan vs Real Leather | What's the difference?

Real leather has been widely used in fashion and home decor for decades. However, in recent years, an alternative material has emerged: Vegan leather.

Made from synthetic materials, vegan leather is designed to mimic the look and feel of real leather while offering a range of advantages, including affordability and having less environmental impact.

So what is vegan leather?



With vegan leather being made of synthetic materials, it is designed to look and feel like real leather. It's made by coating a fabric base, usually polyester or cotton with a layer of polyurethane. It is also significantly cheaper but can be resistant to stains.

Want to know how to clean vegan leather, check out this guide.

Here are some pros and cons:

Pros:-

1. It is more affordable than real leather jackets.

2. Made of synthetic / PU material, it is more environmentally friendly.

3. Can be easily cleaned, just use a damp cloth to clean the stains.

4. Easy to find that is versatile and suits people who prefer sustainability.

Cons:-

1. It is not as breathable as real leather, like lambskin or cowhide leather.

2. Not as durable as real leather, which can last a longer period of time.

3. Not as valuable as it is made from synthetic materials.

4. It is not as soft as real leather, making it less comfortable to wear.


What is Real Leather?



Real leather is made from an animal's skin. It is a naturally occurring material that is breathable, durable, and has a distinct sheen that adds character and charm with time.

However, it is also significantly more expensive than vegan leather. It’s also more prone to stains and fading and requires occasional maintenance to keep it looking its best.

If you want to know more about caring for real leather, check out this guide.

So here are some pros and cons to know:

Pros:-

1. It is durable and is known to withstand wear and tear, keeping its shape.

2. Known for its softness and supple, making it a comfortable item to wear.

3. Increases in value, especially if its maintained and kept in good condition.

4. It comes in different materials, such as lambskin, cow-hide, and suede.


Cons:-

1. It can be expensive, especially if it's high quality.

2. Requires maintenance to keep it looking at its best.

3. Can be easily damaged if exposed to heat or sunlight.

4. Not as breathable to wear in the warmer weather.



Which Is Right For You?




Vegan leather is an option if you're interested in being more sustainable. However, real leather can be the best choice if you're looking for comfort and durability. 

Ultimately, it is important to consider all factors, such as cost, durability, and maintenance, before choosing which type of leather is right for you. Ideally, high-quality real leather will last a longer time than vegan leather.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Is vegan leather durable?

Vegan leather is not as durable as real leather as it is ideally made up of plant-based materials. While real leather is made up of animal skin making it more durable.

2. How long does vegan leather last?

Overall, vegan leather has a lifespan of about two to five years. But you can extend its lifespan if you take good care of it.

3. Is vegan leather expensive?

Absolutely not! Vegan leather is less expensive than real leather, as it is made from less expensive materials. 

4. Does vegan leather stretch with time?

Yes! Vegan leather does have a degree of stretch with time, but it's not as stretchy as animal leather. 

5. Does vegan leather rip easily?

If its not properly cared for vegan leather can fall apart and tear easily as it is made up of a more thinner material than real leather.