Leather has been a staple in various cultures for centuries. Its durability, luxurious feel, and unique smell make it a popular choice for leather jackets and leather accessories. However, all leather types are not made the same way. There are several leather types, each with its uniqueness.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different leather types, including real leather, genuine leather, bonded leather, and faux leather. Additionally, we will provide easy-to-follow steps to identify the various leather types on your own.
Real Leather: The Pinnacle of Quality
Real leather, also known as “full-grain” or “top-grain” leather, is the highest quality leather type. It is made from the outermost layer of animal hide and retains the natural grain of the hide.
Moreover, full-grain leather is known for its durability and the development of a beautiful patina over time. They commonly use it in high-end products such as leather jackets, furniture, bags, and footwear. Whereas top-grain is a slightly processed full-grain leather to remove the rough texture. While it may lack the same level of natural marks, it maintains a smooth surface and is more resistant to stains. Both full-grain and top-grain leather are best in quality.
To identify real leather, look for pores and natural marks such as scars or wrinkles. Real leather is also softer and suppler than other types.
Genuine Leather: Quality with Some Modifications
Genuine leather is not the highest quality. It refers to real leather that has undergone some processing. While still made from the outer layer of the hide, genuine leather is processed to remove the rough texture, and the surface is then coated with a finish to create a sleek look.
Also, genuine leather is cheaper than full-grain or top-grain leather, making it a more affordable option. However, it may lack the same level of durability and character as real leather. Products made from genuine leather can still be of decent quality if the processing is minimal. To identify genuine leather, look for a smoother surface without the natural marks found in full-grain or top-grain leather. The texture may be less visible, and the leather may feel stiffer compared to real leather.
Bonded Leather: A Cost-Effective Alternative
Bonded leather is a budget-friendly option that utilizes leftover scraps of leather. Then they bond these leftovers together with adhesive and coat them with a layer of polyurethane. While bonded leather can mimic the appearance of genuine leather, it lacks the durability and longevity of higher-quality leather types.
Products made from bonded leather may at first look appealing, but they are prone to peeling over time. Bonded leather is commonly used in furniture upholstery, where a leather-like appearance is desired at a lower cost. Identifying bonded leather can be challenging because it often looks similar to genuine leather. However, over time, bonded leather is more likely to show signs of wear, such as peeling or flaking, which genuine leather does not exhibit.
Faux Leather: The Vegan Alternative
Faux leather, also known as synthetic, is a man-made material designed to replicate the look and feel of real leather. It is an excellent option for those who prefer a cruelty-free and vegan option. Typically they use polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to make faux leather. This is so it can have various textures, including smooth or textured surfaces.
While faux leather is more pocket-friendly than real leather, it lacks the same durability. It may not develop a patina over time, and its appearance can worsen with extended use. Despite these drawbacks, faux leather remains a popular choice for leather jackets, upholstery, and accessories. Identifying faux leather is easier. Unlike real leather, faux leather has a uniform texture and lacks natural roughness. The surface may feel artificial, and there won’t be any pores, unlike genuine leather.
Look for Labels:
Check the product for labels that state the type of leather used. Tags in high-quality leather products often specify whether they consist of full-grain, top-grain, or genuine leather.
Smell the Leather:
Genuine leather has a unique and pleasant aroma that is often absent in others. If your product has a strong chemical or plastic smell, it is likely made from faux leather.
Examine the Grain and Texture:
Real leather has a unique grain pattern that is irregular and unique. Thus, examine the surface closely for natural marks, wrinkles, and pores. However, if the surface appears too uniform and lacks roughness, it may be another leather type.
Check for Consistency:
Genuine leather and real leather will have various colors and textures. However, if the product has a uniform appearance throughout, it may be a lower-quality.
Feel the Texture:
Real leather is soft and supple, while others may feel stiffer and less flexible. So, run your fingers over the surface and pay attention to how the material feels to your touch.
Scientific Methods to Identify Leather
For those seeking a more precise approach to identifying various leather types, here are some methods that involve chemical testing. Do keep in mind that these tests may require a small, hidden area to sample first. So use caution and perform them on an area that won’t be visible.
Water Drop Test:
Place a small drop of water on the surface of the leather. Genuine leather will absorb the water, while faux leather or heavily treated leather may repel it. However, this test may not be foolproof, as some types of treated leather can also absorb water.
Heat Test:
Hold a small, hidden section of the leather close to a flame for a few seconds. Genuine leather will resist the flame and may produce a distinct smell. Whereas faux leather, on the other hand, will often melt or burn with a plastic odor.
Chemical Test:
Apply a small amount of a mild, colorless liquid, such as rubbing alcohol, to a hidden area of the leather. This will not affect genuine leather, but faux leather may show signs of discoloration or damage.
Scratch Test:
Genuine leather is more resistant to scratches, and any marks can often be rubbed away. However, faux leather, being softer, may show permanent scratches. Remember to perform this test in a hidden area to avoid visible damage.
Examine the Back Side:
If possible, examine the back side of the leather product. Real leather will have a rougher, unfinished back, while faux leather may have a more uniform and fabric-like appearance.
