The Art of Leather: Distinguishing the Genuine from the Fake

Genuine leather goods can be quite pricey, making it essential to know how to distinguish between real and fake leather to ensure that you are investing in a high-quality, premium product and avoid being deceived.

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The key to distinguishing between real and fake leather jackets is to carefully and meticulously consider a combination of factors. Otherwise, you can easily overpay for a fake leather jacket.

Distinguishing Real from Fake Leather

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Truvid
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The market is flooded with fake leather jackets that are very well crafted and can easily fool less savvy consumers. The following tips on how to tell real from fake leather will help you become a smarter shopper.


Knowing how to distinguish real from fake leather will help you avoid being scammed. (Photo: Fether Skin)


Check the Price

The biggest difference between genuine and fake products is the price. A real leather jacket can cost twice as much, or even tens of times more, than a faux leather jacket made from synthetic materials.

If you come across a stylish leather jacket that is being sold at a low price, it is most likely made from synthetic leather. In this case, you can confirm your suspicion in several ways.

Examine the Texture

Real leather can feel rough or smooth depending on its quality and type. If it feels too smooth or plastic-like, it is likely to be fake. Real leather is usually less consistent in texture as it is natural and harder to manipulate.

When observing real leather, the surface will appear slightly rough or have some bumps and imperfections. The grain pattern of real leather looks very natural. Depending on the tanning and manufacturing techniques used, the surface of the leather will have a certain level of smoothness or softness, but it will still retain relatively noticeable imperfections.

Inspect the Edges

The edges of leather clothing or furniture can also be a telltale sign of whether it is real or fake. Fake leather has perfect, smooth edges that feel slightly plastic-like, whereas real leather has rougher, more natural edges.

Check the Label


Checking the label is a way to help you distinguish real from fake leather. (Photo: eBay)

Manufacturers who want to prove that their products are genuine will always indicate this on the label. If the label says “synthetic material” or if the product has no label, you can assume that it is not made of real leather. Of course, used items may have lost their labels.

Smell the Leather

Smelling the product is another way to distinguish real from fake leather. Real leather has a distinctive smell that fake leather and synthetic leather cannot replicate. Genuine leather usually has a musty, animal-like scent from the tanning process. If you have smelled real leather before, you will likely recognize it for life as it is very unique. On the other hand, fake leather often smells like nylon or chemicals (similar to the smell of plastic or paint thinner).

Note: The tip of distinguishing real from fake leather by smell may not apply to all leather items. Many dyed leather items will not retain the smell.

Examine the Surface

Check the pores on the leather. If they look too perfect, it is unlikely to be real leather. Real leather has inconsistent pores. In contrast, industrial leather has a consistent and repetitive pattern.

Additionally, when examining the surface of real leather closely, you will notice small pores. In contrast, the surface of fake leather is usually smooth, sleek, and very flat. Real leather feels smooth, soft, and supple to the touch; when pressed firmly, an indentation will appear and then disappear (elasticity). Meanwhile, synthetic leather has a rough surface and is less elastic.

To enhance your skills in distinguishing real from fake leather, take the time to compare a fake leather item that you know for sure is not genuine with a real leather item that you are certain is authentic. After this “learning” session, you will be able to easily identify whether the item you are about to purchase is genuine and worth the price.

Test its Water Absorption


Real leather can absorb water due to the presence of pores. (Photo: Aero Leather Clothing)

Real leather has a unique ability to absorb water due to the presence of pores. Dark patches will appear where there is moisture until the water evaporates. Simply place a few drops of water on the surface of the leather, and if the water is absorbed, it is real leather. If the drops of water remain on the surface, it is definitely synthetic leather.

Compare Flexibility

Real leather has a unique elasticity when bent, and it will show changes in color, pores, and natural wrinkles. In contrast, fake leather is stiffer and has a more consistent texture, making it harder to bend.

Compare Weight

Another effective method to distinguish real from fake leather is to compare the weight, which is one of the biggest differences between natural and synthetic leather.

Real leather jackets (such as lambskin or cowhide) are heavier than faux leather jackets.

According to VTCnews

Frequently asked questions

There are several key factors to consider when distinguishing between real and fake leather jackets. Price is often a telling sign, with genuine leather jackets typically costing significantly more than faux leather alternatives. Examining the texture, surface, and edges can also provide insight; real leather has a variable texture and surface with small imperfections, while fake leather tends to have a smoother, more plastic-like feel with consistent pores.

The smell of leather can be a good indicator. Genuine leather has a distinctive, musty animal-like scent from the tanning process, while fake leather may smell like nylon or chemicals. Additionally, real leather can absorb water due to its porous nature, leaving dark patches that disappear as the water evaporates. Real leather also exhibits unique elasticity when bent, showing changes in color, pores, and natural wrinkles.

Comparing a known fake leather item with a genuine leather item can be a great way to train your eye and enhance your skills. By familiarizing yourself with the differences in texture, smell, and behavior, you’ll be better equipped to identify authentic leather and avoid overpaying for fake alternatives.
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