People always mix up PU and PVC — both are fake leathers, but they don’t behave the same. Let’s break it down.
💸 Price
PU (Polyurethane): Super cheap. That’s why fast-fashion brands love it.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Also cheap, but usually a little pricier than PU because it lasts longer.
🛠️ Durability
PU: Cracks and peels fast, especially under heat and water. Don’t expect more than a year of real use.
PVC: Tougher, more water-resistant. It’s stiff, but can survive longer without looking wrecked.
👟 Feel
PU: Softer, flexible, and more leather-like in touch.
PVC: Stiffer, heavier, doesn’t breathe well. Feels plasticky on shoes or jackets.
🌱 Eco-Factor
Both are plastic-based. PU is a bit more eco-friendly than PVC, but still not great. Neither is biodegradable, both are oil-based.
🧠 Final Take
Go PU if you want cheap + soft look for short-term fashion.
Go PVC if you want durability + water resistance, but don’t care about comfort.
👉 Neither beats real leather, but between the two? PVC lasts, PU feels better. Pick your poison.