is vegan leather as good as real leather?
The comparison between vegan leather and real animal leather is subjective and depends on individual preferences and needs. Here are some aspects to consider when evaluating the performance of vegan leather in comparison to real animal leather.
APPEARANCE
Real animal leather has a natural and unique texture, with variations in grain patterns and color. It develops a distinctive patina over time, which can enhance its aesthetic appeal. Vegan leather, such as polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are designed to mimic the look and feel of real leather but do not possess the same natural variations and aging characteristics. Our bioleather is made to mimic real animal leather in strength and durability. It has a unique texture from the plant materials it is made from that creates natural variations and ages beautifully like real animal leather.
DURABILITY
Real animal leather is known for its durability and ability to withstand wear and tear. With proper care, leather products can last for many years and even improve in appearance over time. Polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) vegan leather can vary in durability depending on the specific materials used and the manufacturing quality. Some high-quality vegan leathers can also be quite durable, but others may show signs of wear and tear more quickly, especially in humid climates. Our vegan plant leather is a high quality, durable bioleather that improves in appearance, texture and flexibility over time and with proper care like real animal leather.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Real animal leather requires specific care to maintain its condition. It may need periodic conditioning, protection from moisture, and careful cleaning to avoid damage. Vegan leather such as polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is often easier to clean and maintain, as it can be wiped with a damp cloth and may not require specialized treatments. Our plant leather is just as easy to clean as other vegan leathers. For more information, see CARE
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND ETHICS
Vegan leather is considered more sustainable and ethical than real animal leather, as it does not involve the slaughter of animals. Real animal leather production has environmental concerns related to land use, deforestation, water consumption, and the use of toxic chemicals in the tanning process.
More common vegan leather made of polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) have a high environmental impact. They are derived from petroleum-based sources, require significant amounts of water consumption, use additives and plasticizers, toxic chemicals and have energy-intensive manufacturing processes during the extraction, processing and production processes that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The production and disposal of these materials releases toxic chemicals, including chlorine and dioxins, which are harmful to human health and the environment. These materials are synthetic and do not biodegrade naturally adding to the environmental and health concerns.
Our natural plant leather is a new innovative biomaterial that is 100% natural. It is made with leftover coconut water and plant fibers that have been discarded from the agricultural industry. It is dyed with flowers and tree bark. It requires minimal amounts of water, 85% of which is reused and emits a low amount of carbon emissions. There are no toxic chemicals, petroleum or plastics used in the material or coatings, making it hypo-allergenic. The material is naturally biodegradable and compostable, and breaks down into nutrients to grow new life.
