How to Identify Quality Artificial Synthetic Leather

Artificial synthetic leather is now everywhere — in bags, shoes, furniture, car seats, and even clothing. But not all synthetic leather is created equal. Some products look great for a few weeks and then start to peel, crack, or fade. Others hold up for years and offer an almost indistinguishable feel from real leather. So, how can you tell the difference between cheap knockoffs and high-quality synthetic leather? Here’s what to look for.

1. Understand the Basics

First, let’s define what artificial synthetic leather actually is. It’s a man-made material designed to mimic the appearance and feel of natural leather, typically made from a fabric base (like polyester) coated with polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or a combination of both.

Artificial leather is often chosen over natural leather because it’s more affordable, animal-free, and often more resistant to moisture and stains. But since production methods vary, the final product can range from flimsy plastic-like material to durable, flexible leather alternatives.

2. Inspect the Surface Texture

One of the easiest ways to judge quality is by examining the texture.

High-quality synthetic leather has a consistent grain pattern that closely resembles real leather. It may even have slight imperfections or irregularities designed to imitate genuine hides. Lower-quality versions tend to have an overly uniform pattern or a plastic-like shine that gives away their artificial nature.

Touch it. Premium artificial synthetic leather should feel soft, flexible, and pleasant to the hand — not sticky, overly smooth, or rigid.

3. Smell the Material

Real leather has a distinct, natural smell that synthetic versions can’t truly replicate. But high-end synthetic leather should also not smell like strong chemicals or plastic.

Cheap synthetic leathers often emit a noticeable chemical odor due to low-grade PVC or poor manufacturing practices. A quality artificial leather manufacturer will neutralize or mask these scents during production.

If you're shopping in person and the product smells harsh, walk away.

4. Check the Backing Material

Turn the item over or look inside seams to check the backing. Quality artificial leather uses a strong woven or microfiber backing, which provides strength and flexibility.

If the backing feels like paper or tears easily, it’s likely a sign of a low-end product. A sturdy base not only improves durability but also allows the material to hold its shape better over time.

5. Assess the Thickness and Flexibility

Artificial synthetic leather should have some body to it. If it's too thin or flimsy, it’s more likely to tear, crease, or wear out quickly.

Flexibility matters too. Try bending or twisting the material gently. Quality leather alternatives should return to their original shape without leaving visible creases or cracks. If it feels stiff or cracks under light pressure, that's a red flag.

6. Look for UV and Abrasion Resistance

Top-tier synthetic leathers, especially those used in automotive or upholstery applications, are tested for UV and abrasion resistance.

Ask if the material is UV-stabilized. If it isn’t, it may fade or degrade with sun exposure. Likewise, good synthetic leather should withstand daily wear and tear without peeling or fraying.

A reliable artificial leather manufacturer will usually specify whether their product has passed these tests — especially in product catalogs or technical sheets.

7. Ask About Breathability

One major downside of cheap artificial leather is poor breathability. This means it traps heat and moisture, making it uncomfortable for wearables like shoes or jackets.

Better-quality options often use microfiber bases or engineered perforations that allow airflow. Some even mimic the natural pores found in real leather. So if you're buying synthetic leather for something that will sit close to the skin, make sure it doesn’t feel suffocating.

8. Consider the Application

What is the leather being used for? A synthetic leather that works well for a purse might not hold up in car interiors. Ask about the product’s intended use and whether the material is engineered for that purpose.

For example:

• Automotive-grade synthetic leather is often UV-resistant and easy to clean.

• Footwear leather must be flexible and breathable.

• Upholstery materials should have a strong backing and good abrasion resistance.

Reputable leather manufacturers and retailers should know which product suits your need and why.

9. Examine Stitching and Construction

Often, the way a material is sewn or finished tells you everything you need to know about its quality.

In high-end synthetic leather goods:

• The stitching is tight and even.

• Seams are sealed or reinforced.

• Edges are finished cleanly, not rough or frayed.

Poor construction can sometimes even suggest that the material won’t hold up to wear, regardless of its surface quality.

10. Research the Manufacturer

Not all artificial leather manufacturers operate with the same standards. Some cut corners with cheap PVCs and poor bonding agents. Others invest in advanced coatings, eco-friendly materials, and long-term performance testing.

Look into the company behind the product. Do they have a reputation for quality? Do they supply to well-known brands? Are their materials REACH or RoHS compliant? These signs often distinguish a reliable artificial leather manufacturer from fly-by-night operations.

11. Ask for Performance Certifications

High-quality synthetic leather is often certified for various standards, such as:

• Martindale abrasion testing (for wear resistance)

• Colorfastness

• Tear and tensile strength

• Flame retardancy (for furniture and car interiors)

While you may not need all of these, seeing any third-party performance ratings is a good sign that the product is tested and validated.

12. Compare Price to Performance

As with most materials, you get what you pay for. Dirt-cheap synthetic leather is cheap for a reason — often due to inferior materials and minimal quality control.

That said, high price doesn’t always mean high quality. Make sure you're paying for actual performance and not just a brand name. Comparing multiple options and inspecting the product in person (when possible) is your best bet.

Conclusion

Quality artificial synthetic leather can look and perform just as well — and sometimes better — than genuine leather. The key is knowing what to look for: texture, flexibility, smell, construction, certifications, and of course, the reputation of the leather manufacturer behind the material.

With so many applications for artificial leather today — from fashion to furniture — making an informed choice is more important than ever. The next time you're in the market, take a moment to feel, test, and question the material. A little scrutiny up front can save you a lot of regret later.

Whether you're a designer sourcing materials or a consumer shopping for a new bag or sofa, understanding these quality indicators can help you make smarter decisions and spot a truly premium artificial leather product.