Real skin vs. Artificial leather: Advantages and disadvantages when choosing a harness
When buying a leather harness, it is important to consider whether you will go for a product made of real leather or a variant made of artificial leather, such as PU (polyurethane) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Each of these materials has its specific advantages and disadvantages, which will affect not only your comfort, but also the lifespan of the product. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of both options so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
The benefits of genuine leather
1. High resistance
Genuine leather is very resistant to wear and tear. Harnesses made of this material can last for decades with proper care. They are resistant to water, wind, heat and cold, which makes them a great choice for regular use.
2. Adjustable for bodyshape
One of the greatest advantages of genuine leather is its ability to conform to the shape of your body. The more you wear it, the more comfortable it becomes. The skin naturally adapts over time and provides greater comfort.
3. Ecological alternative
Although the production of genuine leather has an environmental impact, genuine leather is biodegradable and its lifespan contributes to less waste compared to plastic materials.
4. Aesthetic appearance
Genuine leather has a natural, luxurious look that improves with age. It acquires a patina, which gives it character and makes it unique. In addition, it smells beautiful, which is an attractive aspect for many people.
5. Excellent protection
Leather harnesses provide protection against adverse conditions such as wind, heat, cold or humidity. This increases their functionality and practicality.
Disadvantages of genuine leather
1. Higher price
Genuine leather is more expensive than artificial leather. The investment in a quality leather harness can be significantly higher, which can be a deterrent for some buyers.
2. Higher maintenance
Genuine leather requires regular maintenance to maintain its appearance and properties. Without proper care, leather can dry out, crack or lose its elasticity.
Advantages of artificial leather (PU/PVC)
1. Lower price
PU and PVC leather are more affordable than genuine leather. For people looking for a cheaper alternative, faux leather can be an attractive option, especially if you only plan to wear the harness occasionally.
2. Similar appearance to genuine leather
At first glance, it is often difficult to distinguish PU/PVC leather from genuine leather. Artificial leather has a shiny and smooth surface that can be visually very similar to the original.
3. Simple maintenance
Artificial leather does not require as much maintenance as real leather. Its maintenance is relatively simple, which can be an advantage for those looking for a carefree solution.
Disadvantages of artificial leather
1. Low resistance
PU and PVC leather are not as durable as genuine leather. Harnesses made from these materials are more susceptible to damage, especially when exposed to heat, sweat or normal wear and tear. After a few months of use, they may begin to peel, crack or lose their appearance.
2. Short lifespan
While quality PU/PVC leather products can last a year or two, with regular use their lifespan is significantly shorter compared to genuine leather. Body sweat and friction will quickly damage the material.
1. Low ecological sustainability
Artificial leather is made of plastic, which means that its production and disposal are not environmentally friendly. These materials do not decompose naturally and their production contributes to pollution
2. Chemical smell
New PU/PVC leather products may have a strong chemical smell, which may be unpleasant for some people.
Conclusion: So which leather to choose?
If you are looking for a long-lasting, comfortable and high-quality product, genuine leather is clearly a better choice. It offers high resistance, an aesthetic appearance and a more ecological solution compared to artificial materials. However, if you are looking for a cheaper alternative and do not plan to use the product often, artificial leather may be an acceptable solution for you, but be prepared for its shorter life and lower quality
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