What is Genuine Leather?

Key Takeaways:

• Genuine leather is real leather but not the highest quality.
• It is a budget-friendly option but lacks the strength and aging benefits of higher-grade leather.
• If durability and longevity matter, choose full grain or top grain leather for your leather products.

If you have ever shopped for leather products, you have likely come across the term "genuine leather.” The label tricks buyers into thinking that this means high-quality, real leather, but the truth is more complex. What does genuine leather actually mean? How does it compare to real leather or full grain leather? Or, what is genuine leather made of? Understanding the answers to these is important for making an informed purchase.

Genuine leather is real leather, but it is not the highest quality. While it is authentic leather, (made from animal hide), it is a lower quality leather that undergoes processing to make it usable for commercial products. In this article, we will define genuine leather, compare genuine leather vs real leather, and explain what to look for when buying leather goods.

What is Genuine Leather?

The term genuine leather refers to any product made from real leather, regardless of its quality. Split leather or heavily processed leather comes under the genuine leather category. Many people believe that genuine leather typically is a superior material. But in reality, it ranks below full grain leather and top grain leather in durability and overall quality.

Genuine leather is made from the lower layers of animal hide. When it is sanded down, treated, and embossed to mimic the look of higher-quality leather, it is also known as corrected grain leather. Because it is not as strong or durable, it is often used in products where longevity is not the main concern, such as belts, wallets, and handbags.

What Does Genuine Leather Mean?

The genuine leather meaning is often misunderstood. It does not mean premium quality, but rather that the product is made from real animal hide rather than synthetic materials which are used to make faux leather. When a product is labeled as "100% genuine leather," it simply indicates that it contains real leather, but it does not guarantee durability or high-end craftsmanship.

Genuine Leather vs. Real Leather

Is genuine leather real leather? The answer is yes. Genuine leather is real leather, but it is a lower grade. Real leather is a broad term that includes different leather grades, from the highest quality full-grain leather to the lower-quality bonded leather. Genuine leather falls somewhere in between, but is not synthetic leather. 

Higher-quality leather, such as full grain or top grain, retains the strongest part of the hide and develops a patina over time. Genuine leather, however, is heavily processed, often dyed, and coated with artificial finishes to make it look more uniform. Bonded leather comes after it in terms of quality, made by bonding together leftover leather scraps, fibers, or dust with adhesives and then coating it with a polyurethane or vinyl layer to give it a leather-like appearance.

Full Grain Leather

Full grain leather is the highest quality leather available. It is made from the top layer of the hide and retains the natural grain, making it extremely strong and durable. Unlike genuine leather, it is not sanded or buffed, which allows it to develop a beautiful patina (a natural sheen) over time.

Because full grain vegetable tanned leather is more resistant to wear and tear, it is commonly used for high-end leather jackets, furniture, and premium accessories.

Top Grain Leather

Top grain leather is the second-highest grade of leather. It is slightly sanded to remove imperfections but retains much of its strength and durability. Top grain leather is smoother and more flexible than full grain leather but does not develop the same rich patina over time.

Compared to genuine leather, top grain leather is far superior in both durability and appearance, making it a preferred choice for luxury leather bags, wallets, and shoes.

Grain Leather

Grain leather refers to the natural pattern of the hide’s surface. Full grain and top grain leather both retain the natural grain, making them stronger and more valuable. As it comes from the lower hide layers, it lacks the natural grain structure. Instead, it is often embossed with an artificial grain pattern to mimic higher-quality leather.

If you are looking for longevity and quality, full grain and top grain leather are far better choices than genuine leather.

How to Identify Genuine Leather

Learning only the genuine leather definition is not enough. When shopping for leather goods, it is essential to know how to spot genuine leather and distinguish it from higher-quality leather or synthetic alternatives. 

Genuine leather has a more uniform texture but lacks the rich feel of full grain leather. It is more rigid and does not age as well as full grain or top grain leather. If we compare genuine leather vs other leather types, high-quality leather absorbs water slightly, while genuine leather may have a protective coating that prevents absorption.

Leather Upper vs. Genuine Leather

Leather upper refers to the leather used on the upper part of shoes, while genuine leather refers to the grade of leather used. Leather upper shoes can be made from full grain, top grain, or genuine leather. Not all leather uppers are high quality, so checking the specific leather type is essential.

FAQs

Is Genuine Leather Made from Actual Leather?

Yes, genuine leather is made from actual leather, but from the lower layers of the hide. It is made from natural material, but is heavily processed.

Is Genuine Leather Considered 100% Leather?

We can say that genuine leather is 100% leather, but it is not the highest-quality leather available.

Is Genuine Leather Inexpensive?

Compared to full grain and top grain leather, genuine leather is more affordable but less durable.

Is Genuine Leather Water-Resistant?

No, genuine leather absorbs water and can stain easily unless treated with a protective coating.

How to Recognize Genuine Leather?

To identify genuine leather, look for texture variations, smell, and flexibility. It often has a smooth but less natural grain pattern.

Is Genuine Leather Breakable?

Over time, genuine leather can crack and wear out faster than full grain or top grain leather.

What is the Best Way to Clean Genuine Leather?

Use a damp cloth and mild leather cleaner to clean a genuine leather product. Avoid excessive water exposure.

How Long Will Genuine Leather Last?

With proper care, genuine leather can last a few years, but it is less durable than higher-grade leather.

Is Genuine Leather Made from Animals’ Hide?

Yes, it is made from real animal hide, but genuine leather quality is low as compared to full grain or top grain leather.

Conclusion

Genuine leather is real leather, but it is not the best quality. If you are looking for a durable, high-end leather product, full grain or top grain leather is the better choice. However, if you want an affordable leather option for casual use, genuine leather can still be a reasonable choice. Knowing the differences will help you make a smarter buying decision.