Pics lie. Do the 10-sec
Read the label
- Full-grain / top-grain / nubuck / suede = real.
- PU / bonded / “synthetic upper” = fake.
- Genuine leather = real but lowest grade.
Zoom the edges: real shows tiny fibers; PU looks perfectly smooth/plastic.
Backside peek: real has suede/flesh; PU has fabric mesh.
Smell test: leather = earthy, PU = chemical.
Water drop: real darkens/absorbs; PU beads off.Still unsure?
Skip the guesswork—see my real-leather shoe picks