Everyone in their life use leather-made things such as jackets, wallets, boots, bags, sofas, cushion, and many other things. Very few people can differentiate between real leather and PU leather. Don’t worry I will explain each and everything regarding both so you can easily distinguish between them and also can identify different types of real leather and PU leather.
What is PU Leather?
PU (polyurethane), also known as faux leather, which is artificially created through a chemical process, some also called it synthetic leather. It usually contains chemicals and plastic that’s why it is much cheaper than real leather and available in vast quantity. Vegan prefer pu/faux leather products because it doesn’t contain animals hides. PU leather is known under many names, including faux leather, leatherette, vegan leather, and pleather.
What is Real Leather?
It is obtained from the natural source or farming and meat industry, made from the hides of cattle such as cows, goats, and sheep. Every year Muslims sacrifice the animals due to their religious activity during HAJJ, that’s why animal hides are much cheaper in Muslim countries such as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Turkey, etc. Their leather products are very high quality and easily affordable to anyone, especially leather jackets and coats.
PU leather, also known as polyurethane leather, is a synthetic leather-like material that is made by coating a backing material, such as polyester, with a layer of polyurethane. On the other hand, real leather is made from the hide or skin of animals, typically cows, goats, and lambs.
One of the main differences between PU leather and real leather is in their durability and longevity. Real leather tends to be much more durable and longer-lasting than PU leather, as it is able to withstand wear and tear over time. PU leather, on the other hand, is often less durable and may crack or peel over time easily.
Another difference between the two materials is in their appearance and texture. Real leather tends to have a natural grain pattern and texture, while PU leather is often more uniform and smooth in texture. Additionally, real leather may have imperfections such as scars or blemishes, which are often seen as a mark of authenticity and uniqueness.
In terms of cost, PU leather is generally less expensive than real leather, as it is a synthetic material. However, real leather is often seen as a higher-quality and more luxurious material, and may be worth the higher price tag for some individuals.
Overall, the choice between PU leather and real leather often comes down to personal preference, as both materials have their own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Which is best PU or Real Leather?
Both have some pros cons, which are discussed below.
Real Leather
Pros:
It last longer than artificial leather.
It gets better with age.
It provides a luxury appearance.
Cons:
It has a higher price than synthetic leather.
It is heavier.
It requires extra caring and protection.
PU Leather
Pros :
It is easy to produce.
It is cheaper in price.
It is easy to clean.
Cons:
It cannot bend well.
It cannot last long many years.
It can crack and peel over time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is PU leather as good as real leather?
As we read earlier, both have some pros and cons. However, real leather is obviously preferable in many conditions because it has more life than artificial leather. Men prefer real leather due to its badass look.
Is PU leather high quality?
Different quality of PU/artificial leather is available such as of different thicknesses, textures, and shine. The top most quality pu leather can last longer as real leather and does not peel over time.
Does PU mean fake leather?
Yes, it is also known as synthetic or artificial leather that is prepared through a chemical process. In most cases, split pieces of animal hides are used and treated with chemicals to produce PU leather but in the case of vegan leather, 100% plastic or other thermopolymer is used.
Is polyurethane better than leather?
In case of cost, it is better than real leather, and if you are a vegan then it would be best for you. However, in term of quality and life it is not good as real leather.
Is PU leather waterproof?
Of course, the pleather is waterproof because it is somehow plastic in nature and easily resists water.
Why does PU leather crack?
Mainly due to its nature, when it is affected with some chemicals, humidity, and sunlight then it starts becoming cracked. To save it from cracking you have to take care it and regularly treat it with conditioner or oil to keep it fresh and healthy.
What’s PU/pleather leather made of?
PU leather is usually made by 100% polyurethane finish to a base material. Usually, base materials are cotton, nylon, and polyester.
