What is PU leather? How should we distinguish PU leather from genuine leather?

‌PU leather is a man-made synthetic material. It is an artificial leather that usually has the appearance and feel of real leather, but is cheap, not durable, and may contain chemicals. ‌
PU leather is not real leather. PU leather is a type of artificial leather. It is made of chemical fiber materials, while real leather is made and processed from animal skin. The real leather mentioned in the market is generally the first layer of leather and the second layer of leather.
PU leather, the full name of which is polyurethane leather, is a synthetic material made by applying a synthetic polymer coating on the surface of animal fibers. These coatings usually include polyurethane. PU leather has excellent wear resistance, breathability, aging resistance and flexibility. The appearance effect is most like real leather, and it is even better than natural leather in some physical properties. However, compared with real leather, PU leather has some differences in durability, maintenance and environmental protection.
How is PU leather made? The full name of PU leather is polyurethane leather. It is made by applying polyurethane resin on fabric or non-woven fabric, and then undergoing processes such as heating and embossing to make it have different colors, textures and thicknesses. PU leather can imitate the appearance and feel of various genuine leathers, such as cowhide, sheepskin, pigskin, etc.

What are the advantages of PU leather? First, PU leather is relatively light and will not burden the feet. Second, PU leather is more wear-resistant and not easy to be scratched or damaged. Third, PU leather is easier to clean, just wipe it with a damp cloth. Finally, PU leather is more environmentally friendly and will not cause harm or waste to animals.

So, what are the disadvantages of PU leather? First, PU leather is not breathable, which makes the feet sweat or stink easily. Second, PU leather is not resistant to high temperatures and is prone to deformation or aging. Third, PU leather is not soft and comfortable enough, and does not have the elasticity and fit of genuine leather. Finally, PU leather is not high-end and temperamental enough, and does not have the gloss and texture of genuine leather.
‌Methods to distinguish PU leather from genuine leather include‌:

‌Source and ingredients‌: Genuine leather comes from animal skin, and after tanning and other processes, it has a unique natural texture and touch. PU leather is artificial leather, with polyurethane resin as the main component, made by chemical reaction, with good wear resistance, crease resistance and aging resistance.
‌Appearance and touch‌: Genuine leather provides a natural and real touch with a unique natural texture. Although PU leather can imitate the texture and touch of genuine leather, it still looks artificial overall. Genuine leather has very clear lines, and each piece is different. The lines of PU leather are more blurred and monotonous. Genuine leather feels soft and elastic, delicate and smooth. PU leather feels weak and a little astringent.

‌Durability‌: Genuine leather is usually more durable, has high toughness and elasticity, and can resist external impact and friction. Although PU leather has good wear resistance, it may experience aging, cracking and other problems after long-term use.
‌Maintenance and care‌: Genuine leather requires regular maintenance and care, and special leather care agents are used for cleaning, moisturizing and waterproofing. PU leather is relatively easy to take care of, just wipe it with a damp cloth.
‌Environmental protection‌: Genuine leather comes from animal skin, and there are relatively few wastes and pollution in its production process. As artificial leather, PU leather may cause certain environmental pollution in its production process.
About the smell: Genuine leather has a normal leather smell, and it becomes more fragrant as time goes by. PU leather will have a stronger plastic smell. Genuine leather will shrink and smell like burning hair when it encounters flames. PU leather will melt and smell like burning plastic when it encounters flames.
Applicability for different occasions

Daily wear: For leather products for daily wear, such as shoes and handbags, consumers can choose according to their needs and budget. If you pursue comfort and breathability, genuine leather is a better choice; if you pay more attention to price and appearance diversity, PU leather is also a good choice.

Special occasions: In some special occasions, such as business meetings, formal dinners, etc., genuine leather products often reflect elegance and dignified temperament. In some casual occasions, such as outdoor sports, travel, etc., PU leather products are favored because of their lightness and durability.
In summary, PU leather and genuine leather each have their own characteristics and applicable scenarios. Consumers should make choices based on their needs and budget when purchasing.