You must have come across similar looking leather products having a huge difference in their prices and wondered, “Aren’t they both just made out of leather and also similar, then why the difference?”
Well, actually they are not.
While both might appear similar at first glance, cheap and top-quality leather are completely different when it comes to quality, comfort, and durability. If these wildly different price tags are an absolute confusion for you, you’re not alone.
Let’s get down to this and provide all details you need to know before you spend your money.
It All Begins with the Type of Leather
Leather is available in many varieties and all are created differently. The type of leather used is the main reason behind the price difference.
| Leather Type | Where It’s Used | Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Bonded Leather | Cheap jackets, bags, furniture | Low |
| Split Leather | Budget accessories | Medium-low |
| Top-Grain Leather | Mid to high-end goods | High |
| Full-Grain Leather | Premium jackets, wallets | Very high |
Cheap Leather
Generally bonded or split leather.
Made from leftover scraps, pressed and coated to resemble leather.
Prone to cracking, peeling, and loss of shape.
Expensive Leather
Usually top-grain or full-grain.
Is made from the strongest part of the hide.
Durable, breathable, and develops a rich patina with time.
Key Differences Between Cheap and Expensive Leather
Given are some key differences between cheap and expensive leather.
1. The Feel, Smell & Finish
Real leather has a texture and scent that cannot be faked.
Cheap leather has a plasticky, overly smooth feel or is stiff. It often smells like chemicals or glue.
Expensive leather is soft, supple, and flexible. It has a warm, earthy “real leather” scent that is iconic.
To spot fake leather you can try bending it. Cheap leather leaves a crease. Real leather bounces back.
2. Craftsmanship Makes a Huge Difference
When it comes to leather you’re not just paying for the material— you’re paying for how it’s created.
Cheap leather goods are produced on a large scale, and the stitching is often uneven with shortcuts being employed during manufacture.
High-end leather products such as high-quality leather jackets are hand-cut, hand-stitched, and quality-checked —and even crafted in small batches where attention is paid to every detail.
It’s like fast fashion against a tailored suit — both serve a purpose, but only genuine leather products will endure.
3. Durability & Aging
Here’s where expensive leather wins the match.
| Feature | Cheap Leather | Expensive Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Cracks Over Time | Yes | Rarely |
| Peeling Finish | Often | Not Likely |
| Ages Well? | No | Yes (Patina develops) |
| Repairable | Not worth it | Often repairable |
High-quality leather doesn’t just last for a long time but also ages beautifully. A high-quality leather jacket gets softer and deeper in color, over time. Whereas a cheap leather jacket just breaks down.
4. Tanning & Environmental Impact
Tanning is the process that helps preserve leather and gives it color.
Cheap leather often undergoes chrome tanning that is faster and cheaper, but involves the use of heavy chemicals.
Expensive leather usually undergoes vegetable-tanning a traditional, eco-friendly method that involves the use of plant-based tannins. It’s slower but creates richer tones and gives a natural finish.
Should You Always choose Expensive Leather?
This depends on your needs.
Select cheap leather if:
You want a fashionable piece for occasional wear.
Budget is restricted.
You wish to replace it in a year or two.
Select expensive leather if:
You want something that is classic and gets better with age.
You wear it frequently (jackets, boots, wallets).
You value craftsmanship and eco-friendly production.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes expensive leather different from cheap leather?
Expensive leather is generally made from full-grain or top-grain hides and tanned using high-quality processes. Cheap leather is usually bonded or split leather with synthetic finishes, which has compromised durability and is less breathable.
2. Is cheap leather real leather?
It can be. Bonded leather, for example, is basically real leather, but it's made using leftover leather scraps that are mixed with adhesives. It has compromised quality and doesn’t age well.
3. Why does expensive leather cost so much more?
Expensive leather includes cost for premium materials, skilled craftsmanship, and durability. Full-grain leather also develops a natural patina with time, which increases its value.
4. How can I tell if leather is cheap or expensive?
The texture speaks for its quality, expensive leather jackets are soft, supple, and may exhibit natural grain patterns. Cheap leather often has a plasticky, overly smooth feel, or smells like chemicals due to synthetic coatings.
5. Will cheap leather crack or peel over time?
Yes, bonded or synthetic leather tends to crack or peel with use, especially in the absence of appropriate care. High-end leather resists wear better and becomes more beautiful with age.
6. Does expensive leather require more maintenance?
Not necessarily. Both types require care, but high-quality leather exhibits a better response to conditioning and can last decades if maintained properly.
7. Can you improve the look of cheap leather?
To some degree. Leather conditioners or waxes can bring a temporary improvement in the appearance, but they won’t alter the quality or longevity of the material.
8. Is it worth investing in expensive leather items?
If you want something long-lasting and ideal for timeless styling then expensive leather is the best option. A well-crafted leather item can last for years at times even a lifetime making it a better option as cheap products require frequent replacement.
9. What kind of leather is used in cheap leather jackets or furniture?
Generally bonded leather, faux leather (PU), or split-grain leather is used in cheap leather jackets or furniture. These types are affordable but do not last in the long run and not as breathable as higher quality leather.
10. Does expensive leather feel heavier than cheap leather?
At times, yes. Full-grain or high-density leather can feel heavier as it is thick and natural, while cheap leather is often lighter as it is made up of layers of synthetic materials or fillers.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the truth: The price speaks for the quality with leather. Cheap leather is budget friendly. But if you’re looking for something that is enduring, ages beautifully, and gets better every time you use it, invest in high-quality leather.
And if you're shopping for leather, don't just check the price tag — check the type of leather, the stitching, and its feels in your hand. These small signs tell you all you need to know.