Faux Leather Vs Real Leather Shoes - What's the Difference?

Have you ever wondered if those sleek shoes you admire in store windows are made of real leather or faux leather?

It's a question that often crosses the minds of shoppers, especially when weighing the pros and cons of style, durability, and ethics. Choosing between faux leather and real leather shoes isn't just about fashion; it's about making the right decision that reflects your values, lifestyle, and budget.

So, what really sets these two materials apart, and which one should you choose? Let's discuss the details to help you make the right choice.

What is Faux Leather?

Faux leather, also known as synthetic leather, is a man-made material designed to replicate the look and feel of real leather. Faux leather shoes are typically constructed from a fabric base coated with plastic compounds like polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Faux leather fabric provides a stylish and cost-effective alternative to genuine leather.

Types of Faux Leather

Faux-leather comes in several forms, each with its own characteristics:

• PU Leather: Made from polyurethane, PU leather is flexible, soft, and more breathable than other synthetic leathers. It is widely used in fashion due to its versatility and realistic leather-like appearance.
  
  
• PVC Leather: Polyvinyl chloride leather is more rigid and durable than PU leather. It is often used in applications where the material needs to withstand heavy wear and tear, such as in furniture and car interiors.
  
  
• Bi-cast Leather: A combination of genuine leather and PU coating, bi-cast leather is often marketed as a budget-friendly alternative to real leather. It has the look of leather but lacks the longevity and durability.

What is Real Leather?

Real leather is a natural material obtained from animal hides, such as cowhide, and has been used for centuries to create durable goods like shoes, bags, and jackets. The process of turning raw animal hides into leather involves tanning, which preserves the material and makes it suitable for various uses, including footwear.

Types of Real Leather

There are several types of real leather, each varying in quality and price:

• Full-Grain Leather: Made from the top layer of a hide, this is the highest quality leather available. It is the most durable and retains the natural imperfections of the hide, giving it a rugged, authentic look.
  
  
• Top-Grain Leather: This leather is sanded to remove imperfections and is slightly lower in quality than full-grain leather. It is still highly durable and has a smoother finish.
  
  
• Genuine Leather: Often used in more affordable products, genuine leather is made from the lower layers of the hide. It is less durable and does not age as well as higher-grade leathers.
  
  
• Bonded Leather: The lowest quality of real leather, bonded leather is made from leftover scraps of hide that are glued together. It is not as durable or aesthetically pleasing as other types of leather.
  
  

Real Leather vs Faux Leather Shoes - What’s the Difference

Factors	Faux Leather	Real Leather
1. Material Composition:	It is a synthetic material composed of a fabric base and a plastic coating. It is designed to closely imitate the appearance and texture of real leather.	Real leather is a natural product sourced from animal hides. It undergoes a complex tanning process that stabilizes the material and enhances its durability.
2. Durability:	They are crafted to be durable and withstand daily wear. It maintains its appearance and integrity, offering a long-lasting alternative for those who appreciate leather's aesthetic but prefer a synthetic option.	Real leather is highly durable and, with proper care, can last for many years. Its longevity is one of its most praised features, making it a valued material for those seeking a long-term investment in their footwear.
3. Comfort and Breathability:	Faux leather shoes are designed with comfort in mind, offering a variety of styles that are suitable for all-day wear. While synthetic, they provide a comfortable fit for various foot shapes.	Real leather is naturally breathable, allowing air to circulate and providing a comfortable wearing experience, especially during extended use.
4. Appearance and Aesthetic Appeal:	Faux leather is available in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing for endless customization. It offers a stylish, modern look that appeals to fashion-forward consumers.	Real leather is valued for its rich, natural look and feel. While it can be dyed, the options are typically more limited compared to faux leather, with a focus on classic tones and finishes.
5. Maintenance:	Faux leather is easy to maintain and clean. It is resistant to stains and water, requiring minimal effort to keep in good condition.	It requires more attention and care to maintain its quality. Regular cleaning, conditioning, and polishing are necessary to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking.
6. Environmental and Ethical Considerations:	Faux leather is a vegan-friendly alternative, catering to those who prefer not to use animal products. It offers an ethical option without compromising on style or functionality.	Real leather is a natural material, but its production involves the use of animal hides. Some consumers may have ethical concerns about the sourcing and processing of real leather.
7. Cost:	Faux leather shoes are generally more affordable, making them accessible to a broader audience. They provide an economical option without sacrificing style.	Real leather shoes tend to be more expensive due to the quality of the material and the craftsmanship involved in their production.

Buy Faux Leather Shoes from Freeman Footwear

For those seeking exceptional faux leather shoes, Freeman Footwear is your go-to destination in the USA. At Freeman Footwear, our primary objective remains unwavering: to provide customers with footwear that surpasses standards in both quality and value. Since our founding in 1921, we have been committed to creating footwear with updated styling, superior quality, and affordable prices.

We not only adhere to these core values but also place a strong emphasis on exceptional comfort. Our dedication to excellence is evident in every pair of shoes we produce. To truly experience the distinction that sets Freeman apart from the competition, we invite you to explore the affordable luxury of our faux leather footwear. Invest in a pair today and witness where style meets comfort in the most refined way.

Knowing the differences between faux leather and real leather shoes allows you to make a more appropriate decision that aligns with your lifestyle and values. Both materials offer distinct advantages, and the right choice depends on your personal preferences and needs.