Over the years, leather has retained its identity as the symbol of sophistication and timeless style. Having a leather piece, whether it’s a handbag, a pair of shoes, or a wallet, means that you are investing in durability and delicate craftsmanship. However, there’s been a constant rise in imitations in today’s market, wherein some of them look almost as good as genuine leather at first glance. For those who wish to purchase leather, a challenge lies in knowing how to tell the difference between real and fake. Keep scrolling to uncover the signs to distinguish authentic leather.
Why Authenticity Matters
Choosing genuine leather is more than just a luxury; it’s about the long-term value. It ages beautifully, thanks to the rich patina that develops over time. Unlike synthetics that crack or peel with time, authentic leather grows softer the more you use it. Here’s what counterfeit sellers don’t want you to know: fake leather might be appealing at first, but it won’t stand the test of time. Hence, opting for authenticity means you get what you paid for.
Key Signs of Genuine Leather
- The Touch Test
When you touch genuine leather, it feels soft, flexible, and slightly textured. To prove it’s real, check for natural inconsistencies such as small wrinkles or unevenness. Fake leather will be a different case as it often feels too smooth, stiff, or plastic-like.
- The Smell Test
When checking for authenticity, the smell is a big sign that can easily reveal the truth. In comparison to fakes, which give off a strong chemical or plastic odor, a real leather has a distinctive earthy scent that is impossible to miss.
- The Look Test
As you look into your leather options, make sure to examine their surface closely. For authentic leather, you will be able to spot unique grain patterns, pores, and subtle imperfections. However, fakes will most likely have a uniform look, with stamped or printed textures that try to mimic the real thing.
- The Water Test
If it is safe to do so, one last thing you can do is place a droplet of water on the surface. Real leather will absorb the small drops gradually, whereas fake leather will keep the water beads on top of the surface.
Watch Out for these Common Types of Fakes
Even though there are a lot of imitations in the market, some of them will not be obvious. Some of these include:
- PU (Polyurethane) Leather – Crafted from plastic with a shiny and smooth texture
- Bonded Leather – Made from leather scraps that are glued and pressed together; Prone to peeling
Even with these tips, there will be times when you will find it hard to judge with your naked eye. In particular, luxury bags often come with replicas that copy even the tiniest details. This is where our professional authentication can make a difference. With our nearly accurate tool, we can easily verify the legitimacy of your leather pieces. To make things better, we have an Authentication Sale that you should take advantage of. Whether it’s a luxury handbag or a pair of sneakers, we can provide you with the assurance that your items are the real deal.
Find us at these branches with our authentication service: Abreeza Mall, Ayala Center Cebu, Alabang Town Center, Glorietta 5, Greenhills, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Malls Solenad, SM Aura, SM City Baguio, SM City BF Parañaque, SM City Iloilo, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, Trinoma, and U.P. Town Center.
See you there!