Vegan Leather 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Ethical Alternative

Vegan Leather Alternatives vs Plant-Based Leather Guide

Feature

Vegan Leather (PU, PVC)

Plant-Based Leather (Pinatex, Mylo, AppleSkin)

Base Material

Petroleum-based plastics

Plant fibers with minimal synthetic binders

Durability

2-3 years

3-5 years (varies)

Biodegradability

No

Partially biodegradable

Environmental Impact

High

Moderate to low (depending on production methods)

Comfort

Synthetic feel

More natural texture

Sustainability

Low

Medium to High

 

Consumers seeking true sustainability should prioritize fully plant-based, minimally plastic-reliant alternatives.