There are a number of reasons people purchase alternatives to leather. Sometimes, it is due to the cost as real leather can be quite pricey. But other times, it could simply be because leather is animal-based. By the way, head over to Leather Stand for your quality leather jackets.
UNDERSTANDING LEATHER TYPES
It is important to know that any type of fake leather is called faux leather, pleather, or artificial leather. There are two main types of faux leather:
· PU leather: PU leather is made from a synthetic polymer.
· PVC leather: PVC is full for Polyvinyl Chloride. PVC leather is made from chemically altered vinyl.
In this article, we’ll be comparing PU leather and PVC leather to know which is better. Let’s dig right in.
DURABILITY
PVC leather has more layers beneath the coat than you would find with PU leather. This makes it more durable and tough. PU, on the other hand, is more flexible and pliable due to the fewer layers it has. This is not to say that it is weak. It is, however, not as strong as PVC.
The durability of your leather depends a lot on the manufacturer. It varies due to the materials and processes used to create it. It is important to note, however, that faux leather is stronger than real leather.
LOOKS
Although neither PU nor PVC leather is able to imitate real leather completely, PU leather gives real leather a run for its money. When it is worked on well, it has the same wrinkled look that real leather has. This is important for certain clothing or accessories; a leather jacket, a leather bag, leather sexy lingerie – the appearance is important and can make the difference between a desired item and something that just looks cheap.
The same cannot be said for PVC leather as it is more plasticized than PU.
PRICE
PVC leather is cheaper than PU leather. This is because it is made by chemically altering vinyl while PU leather is made of synthetic polymer which isn’t as easy to access.
However, quality or in other words, the manufacturers play an important role in the price. If PU leather is poorly made, it could be sold cheaper than PVC leather.
COMFORT
Faux leather is generally not totally breathable. However, PU leather due to its design is a little more breathable than PVC leather which is totally non-breathable. Of course, this makes PU leather generally more comfortable especially when you consider its flexibility.
In addition, the flexibility of PU leather makes it even more comfortable.
SUSTAINABLE
Neither PVC leather nor PU leather is sustainable. Both variants are able to mimic real leather rather well but because of the materials used to make them, they aren’t biodegradable.
However, PU leather doesn’t create dioxins, unlike PVC leather. This makes it the better option of the two.
WATERPROOF
PVC leather is created in such a way that it is waterproof. The surface of the fibers is sealed so that water cannot pass through. This makes it a good idea if water might often come in contact with your leather.
PU leather can be made waterproof through its polyurethane outercoat. However, it must be well-made.
Final Thoughts?
Both PU leather and PVC leather have their weak and strong points. However, if you are mostly interested in a thick, durable, and strong material, go for PVC leather. As a bonus, it is also more affordable.
If you prefer leather with better looks, comfort, and a lack of dioxins, go for the more expensive version; PU leather.
