Faux leather fabric has become a go-to material across industries, from fashion and automotive interiors to furniture design and commercial upholstery.
Its appeal lies not only in its affordability but also in its versatility, ethical production, and steadily improving quality.
In fact, the best faux leather fabrics today can rival genuine leather in appearance, texture, and durability.
But with so many options on the market, how can you tell what’s high-quality and what isn’t? The truth is, not all faux leather is created equal.
Some products may look convincing from a distance but fail under closer inspection — too smooth, too rigid, or simply too synthetic to meet the demands of long-term use.
Others, however, have mastered the balance: a natural grain, soft hand-feel, structural integrity, and even a commitment to eco-conscious manufacturing.
Whether you’re sourcing materials for upholstery, handbags, apparel, or accessories, knowing how to choose quality faux leather fabric can make or break the success of your project.
In this guide, discover the key indicators of superior faux leather fabric and how to make informed, sustainable choices that look good, feel great, and stand the test of time.
What are the Types of Faux Leather Fabrics?
When choosing faux leather fabric, it’s essential to understand the differences between the most commonly used materials: PU (polyurethane) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
While both are synthetic alternatives to genuine leather, they vary significantly in texture, performance, and environmental impact.
PU leather is often considered the more refined of the two. It is softer, more flexible, and generally more breathable, making it ideal for clothing, handbags, and furniture upholstery.
PU also tends to age better, developing subtle creases over time that mimic the look of natural leather. In many cases, it’s a more sustainable option, especially when produced using water-based or solvent-free processes.
PVC leather, on the other hand, is known for its toughness and resistance to moisture. It’s less breathable and more rigid compared to PU, giving it a more plastic-like feel.
However, it excels in durability and water resistance, making it suitable for applications like outdoor furniture, automotive interiors, or items where exposure to the elements is a concern.
Read More: PU Leather vs PVC Leather in Malaysia: Their Differences
7 Tips for Recognising High-Grade Faux Leather Fabric
1. Examine the Texture and Grain
One of the first indicators of quality faux leather fabric is its texture and grain. High-quality faux leather mimics the look and feel of real leather with a natural, irregular grain pattern.
It should feel soft, supple, and pliable rather than overly smooth or stiff. You might even notice subtle wrinkles or imperfections that replicate the charm of genuine leather.
On the other hand, low-grade faux leather often looks too perfect — with a repetitive texture that feels plastic-like and unnaturally uniform to the touch.
2. Inspect the Edges
The edges of the fabric can reveal a lot about its quality. In superior faux leather fabric, the edges are cleanly finished and may feel slightly soft rather than rigid or plasticky.
Poor-quality versions often have sharp, overly precise edges that may expose a rough backing material or feel foamy.
This can impact both the aesthetics and durability of the final product, especially in items like furniture or fashion accessories where finishing details matter.
3. Feel the Material
Touch is another telling factor when determining faux leather quality.
Premium faux leather fabric feels warm, flexible, and responsive under pressure; it might crease gently when pressed and then return to shape, much like real leather.
Cheaper alternatives often feel cold and stiff, lacking the subtle “give” that comes from better construction. They may resist bending naturally or develop permanent, artificial-looking creases with use.
4. Consider the Type of Faux Leather
The type of faux leather fabric can significantly impact both quality and performance.
PU faux leather is generally considered higher quality due to its soft texture, flexibility, and closer resemblance to real leather.
PVC faux leather, while more affordable and water-resistant, often feels stiffer and more plastic-like.
5. Smell the Product
The scent of faux leather can also be a strong quality indicator. While high-quality faux leather fabric won’t smell like genuine leather, it should have a mild, neutral scent.
A strong chemical or plastic odour, on the other hand, is a red flag for poor-quality manufacturing and can linger unpleasantly, especially in enclosed environments.
6. Look at the Price and Brand
Price and branding can offer useful context when evaluating faux leather. While not always definitive, very low prices may suggest shortcuts in materials or production.
Trusted brands that specialise in faux leather often invest in advanced technologies and ethical sourcing, resulting in products that perform and age more like real leather.
7. Check for Durability Claims
If you’re buying faux leather fabric for upholstery, car seats, or commercial settings, ask about durability testing such as the double rub count or Martindale test.
The double rub count measures a fabric’s durability by simulating the motion of someone sitting and standing.
One back-and-forth equals one double rub. The higher the count, the more resistant the fabric is to wear. Use the guide below to match fabric durability to your needs:
- 10,000–15,000: Light residential use
- 15,000–30,000: Heavy residential use
- 30,000–50,000: Light commercial use
- 50,000+: Heavy commercial use
- 100,000+: Extreme durability (e.g., public transport, aircraft)
Read more: Real vs Faux vs Vegan Leather Fabric: How are They Different
Choose with Confidence with Kintex
Identifying high-quality faux leather fabric comes down to knowing what to look for. With the right knowledge, you can make informed choices that ensure your projects not only look good but also last.
As a leading PU and PVC leather supplier, Kintex is committed to offering only the best in faux leather.
Our PU and PVC collections feature a wide variety of textures, colours, and finishes to suit every design and application need.
We’re also committed to reducing our environmental impact by embracing sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing.
Ready to choose better leather? Browse Kintex’s collections today and discover materials that perform, impress, and align with your values.
