Alternative leather\u2026 the big picture.<\/span><\/h3>\nIn part 1 of our exploration of leather, we looked at traditional, animal based leather, raising the topic of leather alternatives. There are more and more options for alternative leathers on the market, it can be challenging to understand which ones to choose and know if these alternatives are really kinder options than animal leather.<\/p>\n
There are two main kinds of alternative leather: Synthetic Leather (pleather, vegan leather etc) and Bioleather (from plants or fungi), let\u2019s dig in with our Kindhub lens and start with an overview of what encompasses these two options.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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What is Synthetic Leather?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\nThis category comprises polymers which are manufactured to mimic leather. Common polymers are PolyVinylChloride (PVC), Polyurethane (PU), and Silicone. <\/span><\/p>\n\n- \n
PVC comprises strong polyester fibers which are coated with PVC (vinyl) and plasticized materials. This creates a firm, waterproof, durable material which can be used for shoes, upholstery and other functions.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n- \n
PU is similar in that it comprises a fabric backing, such as cotton or polyester, and then is coated with PU. This material creates a softer, more flexible leather which can be used for clothing and accessories.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n- \n
Silicone is an organic material, made similarly, by coating an inner fabric layer with silicone. This material is durable, safe and is often used on things like car seats.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
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