Synthetic Leather Vs Real Leather

Leather has been used by humans since ancient times for clothing and shelter to survive harsh weather. Some leather artefacts have been dated as far back as 1300 BC. The 19th century saw a revolution in leather production with the introduction of chrome tanning.

At the same time, the industry also began exploring synthetic alternatives, which led to the production of Fabrikoid in 1910, a pyroxylin-coated cotton fabric with applications in upholstery, book bindings, and automobile interiors. Eventually, new products such as Rexine, polyurethane (PU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-based synthetic leathers emerged.

Today, the term “leather” can refer to real leather from animal hides, bonded leather created by pulping leftover pieces or scraps, or faux/synthetic leather made without any animal products.

Even the classic rugged American cowboy, once covered head-to-toe in cowhide, eventually traded in his leather boots for synthetic ones proving that even the most die-hard traditionalists can be influenced by comfort, cost, and conscience. Today, leather -real or synthetic has become nearly impossible to avoid. It's in apparel, shoes and boots, jackets and belts, handbags, phone cases, car seats, sofas, and even that fancy watch strap that one rarely uses but doesn’t throw away.

What is Synthetic Leather?

Synthetic leather, also known as faux leather or vegan leather, is a versatile material designed to mimic traditional leather without using animal products. It offers a stylish and ethical alternative for modern consumers who want the leather look without the guilt trip. Several types of synthetic leather, each with distinct characteristics and applications, include:

• Polyurethane (PU) Leather: Soft, flexible, and durable, PU leather is very similar to genuine leather. It is usually used in fashion accessories, upholstery, and automotive interiors.
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Leather: PVC leather is resistant to moisture and abrasion, making it ideal for outdoor applications and objects that require waterproofing. It is often used in furniture upholstery, car interiors, and bags.
• Microfiber Leather: Made from microfiber fabric, it closely resembles genuine leather, offers good breathability, is lightweight, and is environmentally friendly. It is commonly used in upholstery, footwear, and accessories.

Synthetic Leather Vs Real Leather

The decision between synthetic and real leather depends on many factors practical use, budget, dietary habits, and ethical beliefs. Here are a few factors that may influence this decision.

Ethical Considerations for Synthetic Leather

For some, the idea of carrying a bag made from the skin of a dead animal is as off-putting as showing up to a yoga retreat in a fur coat. Leather comes from animal skins, which are known for causing a lot of damage to various species and the planet, resulting in greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss. It also endangers the lives of exotic species such as alligators and kangaroos. Most of the leather employed in the industry comes from common farm animals, including cows, pigs, sheep, and goats.

In the leather manufacturing industry, curing and tanning processes involve a lot of chemicals, some of them highly toxic such as chrome, formaldehyde, and various dyes. These processes can harm the workers, and also pose a potential threat to the environment, despite leather being biodegradable.

According to Collective Fashion Justice, making a cowhide bag emits 100.5 kg of CO? and consumes fourteen times more water than synthetic alternatives, the equivalent of a person’s drinking water for 23 years. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has played a vital role in increasing awareness and pushing for industry reforms. Their advocacy has encouraged a growing movement toward cruelty-free and sustainable fashion. By choosing synthetic leather, consumers help reduce the demand for animal exploitation and environmental harm without sacrificing style or function.

Does Synthetic Leather Result in Lowering Carbon Footprint?

Synthetic leather products are favored as they cause significantly less air pollution. Tanneries must deal with the proper disposal of animal carcasses and other waste materials involved in the manufacturing process. According to CIRUMFAUNA, verified by Faunalytics, a cowhide leather tote bag produces 100.5 kg of CO2e, while a synthetic alternative emits only 14.4 kg. In contrast, MIRUM®, a plant-based leather alternative, has a carbon footprint ranging from 0.84 to 2.1 kg CO?e per square meter, as reported by Natural Fiber Welding. Therefore, synthetic leather comes with environmental benefits and keeps a check on carbon generation as well.

Are Synthetic Leathers Costly?

Synthetic leather is typically more affordable than real leather due to lower production costs and less intensive labor. In contrast, real leather products, especially custom-made ones such as sofas, jackets, and luggage can be extremely expensive due to the skilled craftsmanship and high material quality. Synthetic leather looks like luxury, but the wallet won’t feel like it just ran a marathon.

Why prefer Synthetic Leather over Real Leather?

Choosing between synthetic leather and real leather is ultimately a personal choice, shaped by values, lifestyle, and priorities. Synthetic leather is water-repellent, animal-free, and less expensive, but not as durable, breathable, and sustainable as real leather. Real leather is long-lasting and biodegradable, but its production involves animal cruelty, toxic chemicals, and significant resource consumption. Some synthetic leathers (PU and PVC) are petroleum-based and raise concerns about plastic pollution and environmental degradation. Like the Sword of Damocles, the consequences of such choices hang overhead urging consumers to carefully ponder over the advantages and trade-offs before taking a side.

Key Players and Innovation in Synthetic Leather Manufacturing

Major players in the synthetic leather industry are Kuraray Co., Ltd., H.R. Polycoats Pvt. Ltd., Alfatex Italia SRL, Filwel Co., Ltd., and Yantai Wanhua Synthetic Leather Group Co., Ltd. Kuraray Co., Ltd is known for its CLARINO™ brand of man-made leather. Bolt Threads manufactures a type of leather alternative called Mylo, which is made from mushroom mycelium.

The push for sustainability has sparked innovation in plant-based synthetic leather, including Piñatex made from pineapple leaf fibers, apple leather produced from apple waste, and Muskin, a mushroom-based material, along with cactus, corn, and other plant-based leathers that are still in development but show promise. These materials are renewable, animal-free, and often biodegradable, though they are currently more expensive than plastic-based options.

Brands including Stella McCartney are introducing materials such as Hydefy, a fungi-based vegan leather, and UPPEAL™, made from apple waste. Consumer awareness and the demand for eco-conscious fashion are driving the growth of these innovative materials, reducing reliance on petroleum-based products.