Leatherlike

Leatherlike is an umbrella term used to describe materials that reproduce the appearance, texture, and some performance attributes of genuine leather without being real animal hide. It includes various forms of faux leather, vegan leather, pleather, and microfiber leather, as well as newer bio-based and plant-based alternatives. Most common leatherlike products use a polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) backing, with a printed or embossed grain layer to simulate leather. Microfiber leather combines a synthetic microfiber substrate with a polyurethane coating to create a soft, durable surface.

Key properties vary by type. PU and PVC leathers are typically water resistant and easier to clean than animal leather, though breathability is reduced. PVC-based options may be stiffer and have stronger chemical odors; PU variants often offer greater flexibility and a more leather-like hand. Some leatherlike materials are engineered to be more durable and resistant to scuffing, while others prioritize softness or low weight. Price ranges are broad, with budget options widely available and higher-end products using advanced coatings or bio-based components.

Applications span upholstery for furniture and automotive interiors, handbags and shoes, jackets, and book bindings. In terms of sustainability, leatherlike materials present trade-offs: animal welfare concerns are minimized, but production processes may involve plastics, solvents, and non-renewable components; newer bio-based leathers aim to reduce environmental impact but may not yet match all performance criteria.

Care and maintenance generally involve gentle cleaning and avoiding extreme heat; some microfibre or PU leathers benefit from periodic conditioning, while PVC options may be more resistant to moisture but less flexible over time.

See also faux leather, vegan leather, pleather, microfiber leather.