The words used for leather-look jackets are not always clear. "Leather", "PU leather", "vegan leather" and "faux leather" can sit in the same listing and mean very different things. Here is a straightforward explanation, and how we handle it at LEXE by Devici Studios.
What each material is
Leather
Leather is animal hide that has been tanned. It is a natural material, so each piece varies, and it can last for years with proper care.
Faux leather
Faux leather is a man-made material. It is usually a fabric base with a polyurethane (PU) or PVC coating that imitates the surface of leather. "PU leather" and "synthetic leather" generally refer to this.
How they compare
- Feel and weight. Faux leather is generally lighter. Leather is heavier and tends to soften with wear.
- Care. Faux leather needs gentle cleaning and no heat. Leather needs conditioning. See How to Care for a Faux Leather Jacket.
- Ageing. Leather develops a patina. Faux leather can crack or peel over time, since the coating wears rather than ageing.
- Breathability. Leather breathes somewhat; coated fabrics generally do not, which can feel warm.
- Price. Faux leather is generally less expensive, which makes it easier to try a style.
How to read a listing
- Look at the material line. "Polyurethane", "PU" or "polyester" with a coating means faux leather.
- Be careful with "leather-look" wording in titles. The material line is the better guide.
- Check the size table and care notes, which tell you more about the garment than the headline does.
How we label things
At LEXE, faux leather is called faux leather. We do not use the word "leather" for coated fabrics, and the faux leather jackets collection is a good place to see how that looks in practice. Some listings still carry the supplier's original wording in the details, and we are working through those to keep them consistent. If a product page leaves you unsure about the material, check the material line and care notes on the listing before you order.
Where to start
- LEXE Cinch Jacket: a zip-up with a flip collar, listed as faux leather
- LEXE Nova Cropped Jacket: a cropped, hooded style
- LEXE Striker Baseball Jacket: a loose baseball style
For outfit ideas using them, see our streetwear outfit guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is faux leather the same as vegan leather?
"Vegan leather" usually means a leather alternative with no animal hide. Whether a specific product is suitable for you depends on its materials, so check the listing.
Does faux leather last as long as leather?
Usually not. Leather can last decades with care. Faux leather can last for seasons with gentle care, and wears faster with heat and friction.
Which is better?
It depends on your budget, your care routine and what you want from the piece. Faux leather suits people who want a particular look without the cost and weight of leather.