What Is PU Leather? Find a Bag You Love by Understanding the Difference from Genuine Leather
You've found a bag you like, and the material label says 'PU leather'. It looks like leather, but how is it different from the real thing? Perhaps you've wondered, too.
Understanding a material's name can make choosing a bag more enjoyable. The look you love, what you carry and how you plan to use it all matter. Here's a straightforward introduction to PU leather to help you find something that fits your life.
PU leather: a synthetic material with a leather-like look
PU stands for polyurethane. PU leather is a name used for synthetic leather made with polyurethane resin on a backing such as fabric, giving it a leather-like appearance and feel.
It can recreate the grain and sheen of genuine leather, with plenty of scope for different colours and shapes. Construction and finish vary between products, though, so check the material label rather than assuming the word 'leather' means an animal hide.
Genuine leather, PU and PVC: getting to know the differences
Genuine leather is made by processing animal hide. Its qualities vary with the part of the hide and the finish, and some leathers develop a character that can be enjoyed over time. PU leather doesn't mature in the same way.
Among synthetic leathers, PVC uses polyvinyl chloride. For both PU and PVC, weight, softness and ease of care depend on how the product is made. Rather than ranking materials by name alone, compare the look you like and the way you'll use them.
Enjoy a shape that suits what you're wearing now
Perhaps you'd like to try an oversized shape or bring a different colour into your wardrobe. PU leather is one option for doing just that, letting you enjoy a leather-like look in a design you love.
Look beyond assumptions about lightness or price. Checking the actual weight, lining, opening and pockets helps you picture the bag in daily use. With a large bag, think about its weight when filled and where you'll store it, too.
Peeling and stickiness are different from genuine leather's patina
PU leather can become sticky or start to peel as it deteriorates, with moisture in the air among the contributing factors. Time and storage conditions affect it even when it isn't being used.
How long it lasts depends on its construction, use and surroundings. Rather than storing it for years before bringing it out, enjoy it with your daily outfits while you love it, and keep an eye on its condition.
Everyday care starts with keeping dust and moisture at bay
After use, gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth. If it gets wet, blot away moisture and leave it to dry in the shade. Follow the bag's care instructions for cleaning, and avoid harsh solvents or improvised oil treatments.
Applying a cream made for genuine leather won't stop PU from deteriorating. Letting it rest in a well-ventilated place away from heat, humidity and direct sunlight is part of everyday care, too.
Two shapes for your belongings and your style
A shoulder bag that keeps small items separate, or a large bag whose silhouette is part of the appeal: both are options in PU leather. Picture your usual clothes and belongings as you choose.
A pocketed shoulder bag for everyday belongings
A PU leather bag measuring approximately 29 × 20 × 10 cm and weighing around 0.6 kg. Alongside an inside slip pocket and zipped pocket, it has an external zipped pocket. A choice for days when you want a separate place for your wallet, notebook and smaller things.
A big shoulder bag with a bold silhouette
A generously sized bag combining PU leather with a nylon lining. Its open top has no zip, and there are pockets inside and out. Consider it for an accent to relaxed outfits and easy access to your belongings.
Common questions about PU leather
Is PU leather genuine leather?
PU leather is a name for a synthetic material made with polyurethane, so it differs from genuine leather. Some bags combine other materials in their fittings or details, making it worth checking the material information for the whole bag.
Can I leave it wet?
Don't leave it damp. Blot moisture away with a soft cloth and dry it in the shade. A bag has seams and openings as well as its surface, so it isn't necessarily fully waterproof.
Should I choose PU or genuine leather?
Think about whether you love the way leather changes with use, or want to enjoy a particular shape and look that appeals to you now. Your taste and everyday use can guide the choice. Whichever you choose, care for and store it in a way suited to the material.
Getting to know a material helps you enjoy what you love with confidence. Keep that first attraction to the way a bag looks, and choose one you'll want to use day after day.
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About the author
Yama (Cowmono Owner)
Yama has worked in sales and marketing at apparel companies in Japan and abroad, with a broad interest in fashion, sport, outdoor pursuits and subcultures.
