Real leather is constructed from skins of tanned or chemically processed animals. Faux leathers made from plastics like PVC and PU are also common.
The majority of leather is derived from cattle, sheep, goats, horses, buffalo, pigs, seals, and alligators. Synthetic leather is often known as "pleather."
Genuine leather has a coarse, warm, and flexible texture. Synthetic leather has a cold, plastic-like feel. It cannot be stretched.
The aroma of genuine leather is simultaneously earthy, tangy, and floral. Synthetic leather first emits a strong chemical odor that disappears with airflow.
Leather is uniform in color from top to bottom. The back of synthetic leather usually looks completely different. This cloth is often white.
As opposed to synthetic leather, leather naturally lacks a sheen and has a matte feel. It's easier to see the grain in imitation leather since it's glossier.
Real leather is preferred over synthetic leather for automobile seats and armrests because it is more breathable and maintains a more consistent temperature.
To reduce costs, however, manufacturers are increasingly substituting synthetic materials for natural ones in passenger-facing portions of vehicles.
Fake leather is less costly. A fifty to sixty square foot leather hide costs $600. A genuine leather hide is equivalent to five to six yards of $25 imitation leather.