How to Understand Leather Quality
Not all leathers are created equal. Here are some of the most common types you’ll encounter, each with its unique characteristics:
- PU Leather: Not real leather, PU is a melted plastic layer on fabric. It’s designed to imitate leather’s appearance, but lacks durability, feel, and breathability.
- Oily Crazy Leather: This leather has a vintage, rustic look, perfect for those seeking a raw, authentic feel. However, it scratches easily, meaning it’s better suited for users who appreciate a worn-in look.
- Minimal Finished Leather: Known for giving the most authentic leather feel, it’s untreated or minimally treated, so you feel the natural leather surface. While luxurious, it may lack durability over time.
- Pattern-Printed Leather: Created with a printed pattern for a stylish look, this type of leather is often highly durable but doesn’t have the same tactile feel as natural leather.
- Veg-Tan Leather: Vegetable-tanned leather offers a natural, timeless feel and develops a rich patina over time. Initially stiff, it’s ideal for items like belts and wallets that break in beautifully with use. Though less versatile than modern leathers, its durability and character make it a favorite for artisanal products.
Recognizing True Leather Quality
Quality leather can be difficult to assess at a glance; it reveals itself over time. High-quality leathers are typically heavier and made from hides of healthy animals, with minimal flaws and natural marks. The tanning process uses premium, human-safe, and eco-friendly chemicals, ensuring both durability and beauty. Quality leather may have subtle markings, but excessive flaws usually indicate lesser quality.
What Low-Quality Leather Looks Like
Low-quality leather is usually thin, with frequent blade or wound marks, and is often treated with cheap chemicals that can be harmful and aren’t environmentally friendly. This leather type is commonly used in footwear, where small leather pieces suffice, and costs are kept low.
Our Approach to Leather Quality
At SycamotreCustom, we believe in balance—leather should be authentic yet durable, modern yet timeless. Our top-grain leather, crafted in collaboration with SEPICILER (a “Gold Rated” tannery certified by Leather Working Group standards), meets these criteria perfectly. Our leather "Riva" sits between natural and minimal finished leather, offering a true leather feel with impressive durability and water resistance. It’s environmentally friendly semi veg-tan leather, crafted with the finest tanning materials, and designed to look exceptional: neither too shiny nor too matte, with a modern appeal.
We’ve used this leather for years, resulting in thousands of happy customers who appreciate the quality and feel.
Which Leather Type Do You Prefer?
We hope this guide makes it easier to choose the leather that’s right for you.
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Why Leather is an Investment While Cheap Plastics are Unnecessary Spending