Difference Between Art Leather vs. Traditional Leather

Traditional leather needs no introduction. Traditionally, leather has symbolized durability, strength and resilience. It has been a symbol of artisanship and luxury owing to the meticulous techniques that create leather. Undoubtedly, creating and furnishing leather in nothing short of an art. Challenging its supremacy in the market, Art Leather has emerged as a desirable alternative. In the war between art leather and traditional leather, there can be no winner in the conservative sense since preferring one over the other depends upon personal choice.

Art leather is a synthetic material that mimics its traditional alternative in terms of durability, look and feel. It primarily emerged as the cruelty-free and economical option for those who found traditional leather appealing but not ethical. Here is a comprehensive list of comparison between the two.

• Material:Traditional leather is made of animal hides and often termed as “genuine” or “real” leather. It can be derived from any animal regardless of their rearing or husbandry. On the other hand, Art Leather is a synthetic material derived from various substances such as plastic, fabric or a combination of both.


• Durability: Leather is a long lasting substance and popular for its turtle life. Art Leather or leatherette has also undergone various innovations recently to have the same durability or long lasting features as usual leather. These innovations minimize the impact on environment when compared to its traditional alternative.


• Maintenance: Leather typically requires heavy maintenance, requiring special polishing oils and cleaning techniques. Art leather, on the other hand, requires minimal maintenance. It can be easily cleaning using damp cloth and unlike traditional leather, does not exhibit signs of aging easily. Leather over the course of usage develops patina. However, without proper maintenance, it may develop patina that appears soiled an unappealing. This is an issue that does not come across during Art Leather usage.


• Feasibility: While many find traditional leather tempting, real leather often falls out of budget. Its affordable versions are usually low quality non-genuine leather that are made up compiled scraps and neither offers durability nor the desired patina. Art leather is mass-produced using easily available materials and innovative technology, making it a lot easier on the pockets. Moreover, one also saves through low maintenance during the course of its usage.


• Appearance: Traditional leather has a natural look to it as it is derived from animal skin. It also has inconsistent pattern while art leather can have sheen and consistent pattern that is smoother to touch.

Conclusively, it can be said that the choice between the two depends on what you prefer as a consumer. For some, the ethical considerations and affordability wins over leather’s appearance. For such an audience, we are here to cater to the needs of those who wish to find the right balance between functionality, ethics and aesthetics.