[Industry News] In the fiercely competitive global footwear manufacturing industry, leather, as a core raw material, directly affects shoe comfort, durability, procurement costs and brand reputation. For B2B buyers, selecting the right leather efficiently is crucial to improving supply chain efficiency and reducing risks. This article summarizes 3 core points to help buyers make accurate purchases.
Point 1: Match leather type with shoe positioning. Different shoe styles have different requirements for leather performance. Full-grain cowhide is wear-resistant and breathable, suitable for high-end formal shoes and business casual shoes; full-grain goatskin is soft and lightweight, ideal for high-end women’s shoes and casual shoes; pigskin is cost-effective, suitable for shoe linings and low-end uppers. For synthetic leather, microfiber leather is breathable and durable, fitting sports shoes and high-end casual shoes; PU leather is affordable for fast-fashion shoes; PVC leather is waterproof but less breathable, suitable for rain boots.
Point 2: 3-step identification to avoid fake leather.
① Observe: Natural leather has uneven pores and irregular grains, while fake leather has uniform artificial pores and neat grains.
② Touch: Natural leather is soft and elastic, with quick rebound after pressing; fake leather feels stiff or overly smooth, leaving marks after pressing.
③ Smell & test: Natural leather has a light, non-irritating smell and good water absorption; fake leather has a pungent plastic smell and no water absorption.
Point 3: Pay attention to additional details. Avoid low-price traps—unusually low quotes often mean fake or inferior leather. Ask for quality test reports and international certifications (such as OEKOTEX, GRS) to ensure compliance, especially for export orders.
Tips: Prioritize qualified suppliers, request samples for testing, and sign clear purchase contracts to reduce procurement risks.