How to Identify a Real Leather Jacket
Leather jackets are those classic pieces that have withstood all tests of time and have held on to their position of being the foremost in the fashion world. Not only are they versatile but also offer protection against weather in the most stylish way. They are truly timeless.
If you are considering buying a leather jacket, you need to beware. Just because a jacket looks like it’s crafted out of leather doesn’t mean that it actually is. It is a very common practice adopted by the market of selling faux leather in the name of real leather. This faux leather is typically made of a synthetic man-made material that resembles genuine leather in appearance. But if you’re unfamiliar with faux leather you may find it difficult to differentiate between artificial and genuine leather. So, how do you determine if a leather jacket is real?
Do not worry; there are many ways by which you can easily identify real leather. Stated below are some things you need to check before you invest in one.
Price
Price is one factor that differentiates a genuine leather jacket from an artificial leather jacket. A real leather jacket is much more expensive than a faux leather jacket. A cheap price is an indication of the leather being synthetic.
Touch and feel
High-quality real leather jackets feel slightly smooth and warm. If you feel the jacket to be excessively smooth then it will be faux. A very good idea to gain clarity is to visit a well-known garment store where they have a wide variety of both real and faux and you can make a comparison.
The pattern of grains on the texture
Faux leather is created with chemicals and made in a machine and hence comes with a symmetrical texture pattern. Whereas, real leather has a distinctive and uneven texture pattern with variations in a single piece. A genuine leather jacket would appear chipped and full of grains because it is made using natural products. It is important to always check the pattern properly before making your purchase.
However, remember that some faux leather products may replicate the appearance of a real grain; hence it is important that you look attentively for imperfections. Natural imperfections are usually existent in real lamb or calf leather and not faux.
Smell
The smell is a great indicator of real leather. Artificial leather smells like chemical and synthetic plastic while real leather has a distinctive natural and organic smell that is somewhat like wood. Smell the jacket. If the smell is natural and somewhat like wood it is a leather jacket crafted using real leather. Whereas if it smells like chemicals.
Moisture absorbance test
Real leather has its own distinctiveness to absorb water owing to the fact that it has pores. To be sure just put a drop of water on the surface of the leather, if it is absorbed leaving a dark patch then it means that the leather is real. If water drops roll off the surface then definitely the leather is synthetic. But while performing this test be sure to try this with only a drop of water as too much water can damage your jacket.
Bend it
Yes, that’ correct. Bending it is another way of determining if the leather is real or fake. Hold the leather jacket in your hand and try bending the fabric. If it changes color, wrinkles naturally, and shows variations in pores, then you can rest assured that it is real. If it’s fake, the chemically altered color will not change. Also real leather is somewhat flexible, and because of this, has a tendency to bend more easily when under pressure. Faux leather, however, owing to its hardness, stiffness, imparted by chemicals presents difficulty when trying to bend.
Weight
Another way to differentiate between real leather and faux leather is from their weight. Real leather is heavier as compared to synthetic leather.
Read the Care Label
Leather jackets usually have a care label. This label states the recommendations for cleaning and caring for it. Along with this, it should also state the fabric and materials the leather is crafted with.
However, you can’t depend on the care label to understand if the leather is 100% genuine. Some may intentionally mislabel their products to cheat customers.
These are the simple and easy ways using which you can easily differentiate between real or fake leather. Real leather lasts for a longer time and is expensive. It provides you warmth and comfort and also lasts a lifetime.
Hopefully, you will get a better idea of how to state the difference between real leather and fake leather. Leather jackets are investment pieces and when you discover that it’s made of fake/faux materials it can annoy you. To avoid this, apply these testing methods.
If nothing works the best way is you can order your from our leather jacket collection for men and women from NYC Leather Jackets. With us, you can rest assured knowing that you are getting 100% genuine leather. Our products are of excellent quality and if you are looking for something that lasts you a lifetime, we are here to your rescue.
Order your jacket and get ready to rock even the most regular days stylishly.
Related FAQs:
1. What is the difference between real and faux leather jackets?
Ans. Real leather jackets are crafted from animal hides, such as cowhide, lambskin, or goatskin, known for their durability, suppleness, and natural grain patterns. On the other hand, faux leather jackets, also known as synthetic or vegan leather, are made from artificial materials like polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
2. Is faux leather safe for skin?
Ans. Faux leather is generally considered safe for skin contact, but it's essential to choose high-quality materials to minimize the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. While faux leather jackets may lack the natural breathability of genuine leather, leading to potential discomfort during extended wear, they are often lined with soft fabrics to enhance comfort. However, it's crucial to note that some individuals may be sensitive to certain synthetic materials or adhesives used in the production of faux leather garments. To ensure skin safety, opt for reputable brands and manufacturers that prioritize quality and use non-toxic materials in their faux leather products.
3. How long will faux leather last?
Ans. Factors such as exposure to sunlight, humidity, and frequent wear can accelerate wear and tear, leading to peeling, cracking, or fading of the faux leather surface. With proper care and maintenance, including regular cleaning and conditioning, a well-made faux leather jacket can last several years.
4. Which type of leather is best?
Ans. The choice of the best leather type for a jacket depends on personal preferences, budget, and intended use. Each type of leather offers unique characteristics and benefits. For example, lambskin leather is renowned for its softness, lightweight feel, and luxurious texture, making it ideal for sleek and stylish jackets. Cowhide leather, known for its durability and rugged appearance, is a popular choice for classic and timeless outerwear. Goatskin leather combines durability with a supple feel, making it suitable for both casual and formal jackets. Ultimately, the best type of leather for a jacket is one that meets your specific needs in terms of style, comfort, and longevity.