PU, PVC and Real Leather

Not all leather is created equal, and not everything called "leather" actually is. Whether you’re furnishing a space, building a brand, or just trying to make an informed purchase, here’s a clear breakdown of the three most common types: PU, PVC, and Genuine Leather.

🥇 Genuine Leather: The Real Deal

Pros:

• Best of the best

• Durable and long-lasting

• Ages beautifully over time

Cons:

• Expensive

• Requires care and conditioning

Performance:

• Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Looks/Feel: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Cleanability: ⭐⭐⭐

• Hot Stamping: ⭐⭐⭐

• Cost: 💰💰💰💰💰
  

If you want something premium, timeless, and worth every dollar, genuine leather wins. It’s the highest-quality option, perfect for businesses that want to make a lasting impression—but it’s an investment and needs upkeep.

🥈 PVC Leather: The Most Durable Synthetic Option

Pros:

• Extremely durable

• Easy to clean

• Water, mildew, and stain-resistant
  

Cons:

• Feels synthetic

• Hot stamping and printing don’t look great—it keeps the same base color and lacks contrast
  

Performance:

• Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Looks/Feel: ⭐⭐

• Cleanability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Hot Stamping: ⭐

• Cost: 💰💰
  

PVC is the top artificial option if you’re looking for longevity without the high price tag. It’s tough, low-maintenance, and ideal for high-traffic venues. The trade-off? Logos and printing tend to fall flat—literally. It doesn’t absorb ink well, and the visuals don't pop.

Our recommendation: For businesses that skip genuine leather due to cost, PVC is the way to go. If you still want a nice printed logo, we can add a PU window just for the stamping—best of both worlds.

🥉 PU Leather: Print-Friendly but Fragile

Pros:

• Great for hot stamping—logos come out crisp and clean

• Very affordable

• Flexible and soft feel
  

Cons:

• Doesn’t last long

• Prone to cracking, peeling, and stains

• Hard to clean
  

Performance:

• Durability: ⭐⭐

• Looks/Feel: ⭐⭐

• Cleanability: ⭐

• Hot Stamping: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Cost: 💰
  

PU is tempting if you’re budget-conscious and want a standout logo or design. It’s a short-term solution perfect for giveaways or high-volume orders, but don’t expect it to survive heavy use. Over time, it breaks down and looks worn.

Final Take

Genuine - Premium feel, long-term use, high-end clients
PVC - Tough environments, easy upkeep, long-lasting
PU - Budget branding, giveaways, or temporary use

For most of our business clients, we suggest PVC as the base material for its toughness, and we add a PU window for the stamped logo. This combo keeps costs reasonable, looks great, and holds up over time.