PU vs Real Leather Jacket – What’s The Difference?

Investing in a premium real leather jacket isn't just about achieving a timeless aesthetic; it's also about securing durable, long-lasting protection.. When searching for a good quality jacket, customers usually get confused between PU and Real Leather. People who are aware of leather products can easily identify the difference, but those who are not, end up getting a fake piece. And if you accidentally purchased one just to save a few dollars, you'll be sure to start hating it very soon. In this guide, I'll cover the essential points that you need to know before purchasing a leather jacket and even discuss the pros and cons of the two materials.

What is a PU Leather Jacket?

PU (Polyurethane) is also called faux leather. The material is made from plastic and usually costs less as compared to the original. A jacket made from this material looks almost identical to genuine leather and it’s hard to tell at first sight but you’ll be sure to notice the difference after a few months.

Is PU Leather Jacket Durable? 

Fair answer - No! The lower-cost substitute of Genuine Leather doesn't have much resistance power and easily gets affected even by the sweat of your body. However, high-quality leather jackets might just survive for the next two years or more - only if you use them with care. 

Pros:

• Look and feels like Genuine Leather.
• Shiny appearance.
• Low-priced.
• Easier to clean
• Lighter weight
• Good for mild climate regions with occasional rains.

Cons:

• Artificial Leather
• Thicker than Real Leather
• Bulky in some cases
• It smells like Chemical
• Easily gets affected by body sweat and oil.
• Cannot withstand heat
• Starts to peel or crack in less than a year (if used too much)

These are common details that a buyer must know. Note - some PU leather jackets may vary depending on which brand is manufacturing and considering the cost. It can only be noted after wearing it for some time.

Is Genuine Leather the Same as Real Leather?

While "genuine" and "real" may appear as synonyms in general usage, they signify different qualities in the context of leather. Genuine leather is indeed real leather, but it represents the lower quality tier within the leather market. For instance, consider two leather jackets from a brand, both labeled as "GENUINE" but priced differently - one at $199 and the other at $299. The price disparity often reflects a difference in quality. The less expensive jacket might be made of bonded leather, which is composed of leftover leather scraps, unlike higher-quality full-grain or top-grain leather. Therefore, it's crucial to carefully assess the leather quality before making a purchase, as not all genuine leather products offer the same durability and aesthetic appeal. Apart from the real and genuine debate, vegan leather has been the new norm in recent times when it comes to leather jackets or leather goods.

Is Real Leather any good?

Absolutely! Real Leather Jackets are known for their toughness and durability but in terms of price - they cost more. Even if it cost extra, the upgraded features will definitely give you a lasting experience such as environmental resistance like heat, water, and in some parts, cold snow.

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How Real Leathers Are Made?

Real leather jackets are made of animal hides like lamb, sheep, and horses. The most common hide utilized to make good quality jackets is lambskin. It is soft, skin-friendly, and offers an everlasting experience.

Pros:

• Gives a luxury look
• Highly durable
• Last longer than PU
• Gets better over time
• Protects from wind, heat, and cold
• Dries naturally if gets wet during rainfall

Cons:

• Higher Price
• Requires proper caring
• Absorbent

How to identify?

Lastly, we need to see the difference when buying a PU and Real Leather Jacket. Now, this can be tricky sometimes but one thing you should know is real leather gets wrinkled when pressed too hard but PU just stays natural. See this picture.

PU VS REAL

CONCLUSION:

Arguably, Real Leather Jacket looks like it's worn out but, that's how it suppose to look. While the artificial leather looks like a genuine piece but the benefits are totally opposite. If you're searching for a jacket that tends to flatter more and give you enough protection, go for a Real Leather Jacket.  PU Jackets may cost you less at first but you may also end up putting more money into returning or fixing them. So next time, when you'll go to buy a leather jacket, always pick the right quality. Check out our amazing Womens Leather Jackets made from 100% real leather that is versatile, durable, and won't cost you a fortune, also we have great selection of winter coats men. Shop our picks today! Don't forget to share this guide with your friends on social.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

What leather lasts the longest?

There is no doubt that real leather lasts a lifetime and The most durable leather is full-grain one of the best qualities of this type of leather is the older it gets the more desirable and valuable it becomes. In this disposable age, it can be a worthy purchase.

How do you take care of a leather jacket at home?

The first step to caring for a leather jacket at home is to keep it away from getting wet because real leather is sensitive to water. Condition it with oil or leather conditioner and hang it on a wire hanger to keep it away from getting wrinkles.

Does PU leather peel?

Expensive PU leather from known brands doesn't peel worst thing that happens to them is they start cracking and cheaper PU does peel off easily.

How do you keep PU leather from peeling?

You can stop PU leather from peeling by keeping it away from direct sunlight as much as you can and you have to clean it more often with conditioners but first always test the conditioner on your old faux item or your less visible parts to if it is working then you are good to go.

How can I make my leather jacket last longer?

The leather jacket needs to be cleaned more often with leather cleaning products and at least once a year you have to take it to a professional to make the jacket last longer.