What are the Different Types of Leather?

Not all leather is the same. The leather used in a soft fashion jacket can feel completely different from the leather used in a motorcycle jacket, handbag, or pair of boots.

The difference can come from the animal the hide comes from, the part of the hide that is used, how much the surface is processed, and how the leather is finished.

There are also materials such as PU leather and faux leather that look like real leather but are made differently. Knowing the difference can help you choose the right material instead of relying only on the word “leather” on a product page.

In this guide, we will explain the most common types of leather in simple terms, including full grain, top grain, genuine leather, suede, lambskin, sheepskin, cowhide, PU leather, and faux leather.

We will also briefly compare some of them so you know what makes each material different. Later, we can cover the individual comparisons in much more detail in separate guides.

Table of Contents

1. What Are the Main Types of Leather?
2. What Is Full Grain Leather?
3. What Is Top Grain Leather?
4. What Is Genuine Leather?
5. What Is Corrected Grain Leather?
6. What Is Suede Leather?
7. What Is Lambskin Leather?
8. What Is Sheepskin Leather?
9. What Is Cowhide Leather?
10. What Is PU Leather?
11. What Is Faux Leather?
12. What Is the Difference Between PU Leather and Faux Leather?
13. What Is the Difference Between Lambskin and Sheepskin?
14. How Is Real Leather Different From Synthetic Leather?
15. Which Type of Leather Is Best for Jackets?
16. How Do You Choose the Right Leather?

What Are the Main Types of Leather?

The easiest way to understand leather types is to divide them into a few groups. Some names describe where the leather comes from, such as lambskin, sheepskin, and cowhide. Other names describe how the hide has been processed, such as full grain, top grain, corrected grain, and suede. Then there are synthetic materials such as PU and faux leather. These are designed to imitate the appearance of real leather but do not have the same animal hide structure. Leather Naturally explains that full grain, corrected grain, splits, suede, and PU coated splits are different categories created through the way the hide is processed. Understanding this difference makes leather terminology much easier.

What Is Full Grain Leather?

Full grain leather keeps the natural grain surface of the hide. It has not been heavily sanded to remove the natural grain. Because the surface remains largely intact, natural marks and variations can sometimes be visible. Leather Naturally describes full grain as leather where the grain or surface remains intact. This makes full grain leather popular with people who want a more natural appearance. The surface can show the character of the original hide instead of looking perfectly uniform. Full grain leather can be used for jackets, bags, footwear, furniture, belts, and many other products. However, the term “full grain” by itself does not tell you everything about the final product. Thickness, tanning, finishing, construction, and the quality of the original hide still matter.

What Is Top Grain Leather?

Top grain leather refers to leather made from the upper grain portion of the hide. The surface may be lightly corrected or processed depending on the specific leather. Leather Naturally notes that top grain leather can include snuffed or corrected grain types. Compared with heavily corrected leather, top grain leather can retain a good amount of the original grain character. It is commonly used for fashion products, bags, footwear, furniture, and other leather goods. One important point is that “top grain” does not automatically mean the leather is better than every other type. The quality of the hide and the manufacturing process still matter.

What Is Genuine Leather?

Genuine leather is real leather made from animal hide. However, the word “genuine” should not be confused with “highest quality.” It simply indicates that the material is genuine leather rather than a completely synthetic imitation. The term can cover different types and qualities of leather, depending on how the material has been processed. This is why it is better to look beyond the word “genuine” when buying a leather jacket. Ask what animal the leather comes from, how thick it is, what finish it has, and how the product is constructed. That information tells you much more about what you are actually buying.

What Is Corrected Grain Leather?

Corrected grain leather has been mechanically treated on the surface to create a more uniform appearance. The process can involve sanding or buffing the grain to reduce visible imperfections before the leather receives its final finish. Leather Naturally explains that heavier surface sanding can produce corrected grain leather. This does not mean corrected grain leather is fake or poor quality. It simply means the natural surface has been altered more than it would be with full grain leather. Manufacturers may choose this approach when they want a more consistent appearance across leather panels.

What Is Suede Leather?

Suede has a soft, brushed surface that gives it its familiar velvety feel. It is commonly made from the split or flesh side of leather, although the term can also refer to leather treated to create a similar surface. Leather Naturally describes suede as leather from the lower split area that is sanded and generally left without a conventional surface finish. The soft surface is one of suede’s biggest attractions. Suede can be used for jackets, shoes, bags, gloves, furniture, and fashion accessories. The main thing to remember is that suede is still real leather when it comes from an animal hide. Its appearance is simply different because of how the surface has been processed. Suede also needs different care from smooth leather because its textured surface can react differently to moisture, dirt, and stains.

What Is Lambskin Leather?

Lambskin leather comes from young sheep and is known for its soft, lightweight, and flexible feel. Its fine grain and smooth texture make it particularly popular for fashion clothing, gloves, handbags, and lightweight leather jackets. Because lambskin is usually thinner and softer than heavier hides such as cowhide, it can feel very comfortable when worn. That softness is also why lambskin requires reasonable care. A lightweight leather jacket should not be treated like a heavy motorcycle jacket. For fashion jackets, lambskin is often chosen when softness, comfort, and a clean appearance are more important than having a very heavy leather feel.

What Is Sheepskin Leather?

Sheepskin leather comes from sheep and is another soft leather commonly used in clothing and other products. The terms lambskin and sheepskin can sometimes cause confusion because lambskin comes from a younger sheep, while sheepskin can refer more broadly to sheep hide and is often used for hide from mature sheep. The age of the animal can influence the thickness, grain, and overall feel of the leather. Lambskin is generally associated with a finer and softer feel, while mature sheepskin can have a little more body. There is another important use of sheepskin. When the wool remains attached to the hide, the material can be used as shearling or wool on sheepskin products. So when shopping for a jacket, it is worth checking whether “sheepskin” refers to smooth leather or a wool backed material.

What Is Cowhide Leather?

Cowhide leather comes from cattle and is widely used across the leather industry. It is generally known for its strength and more substantial feel compared with lighter leathers such as lambskin. Cowhide can be processed into many different types of leather, including full grain, corrected grain, split leather, and suede. This means saying that something is “cowhide” does not tell you exactly how the surface will look or feel. The processing method still makes a major difference. Cowhide is commonly used for products that need a stronger and more durable material, including motorcycle jackets, belts, boots, bags, furniture, and other leather goods. For a jacket, thicker cowhide can provide a more structured feel, while lighter cowhide can be used for everyday fashion.

What Is PU Leather?

PU leather is a synthetic material made using polyurethane. Unlike genuine animal leather, fully synthetic PU leather does not come from an animal hide. It is generally made by applying polyurethane to a backing material and giving the surface a leather like texture. Leather Naturally identifies PU coated split leather as a specific material where polyurethane is applied to leather split material, while fully synthetic PU products can also be made without animal hide. This distinction matters because not every product described as “PU leather” has exactly the same construction. Some PU materials are completely synthetic, while certain coated leather products can contain a real leather base. If you are buying a jacket and want real leather, always check the material description instead of assuming that “PU leather” means genuine leather.

What Is Faux Leather?

Faux leather is a general term for materials made to look like real leather. The word “faux” simply means imitation. Unlike genuine leather, faux leather is designed to reproduce the appearance of leather without being traditional animal hide. Different synthetic materials can be used to make faux leather, including polyurethane based materials and other coated fabrics. That is why faux leather is better understood as a broad category rather than one specific material. The quality can also vary significantly. Some synthetic materials have a very convincing appearance, while cheaper versions can look and feel noticeably different from natural leather.

What Is the Difference Between PU Leather and Faux Leather?

PU leather and faux leather are related, but they are not exactly the same term. Faux leather is the broader category for materials designed to imitate leather. PU leather identifies a material that uses polyurethane in its construction. In simple terms, PU leather can be a type of faux leather. However, not every faux leather product has to be made from PU. Other synthetic materials can also be used. This is why a product described only as “faux leather” does not tell you exactly what synthetic material was used. For a proper buying decision, look for the actual material information rather than relying only on marketing terms.

What Is the Difference Between Lambskin and Sheepskin?

The biggest basic difference is the age of the sheep from which the hide comes. Lambskin comes from younger sheep and is generally associated with a finer, lighter, and softer feel. Sheepskin usually refers to leather from sheep more generally and can describe material with a little more body. Both can be soft and comfortable, which is why the names are sometimes used loosely in product descriptions. The difference becomes more noticeable when you compare specific hides, thicknesses, tanning methods, and finishes. For that reason, you should not choose a jacket based only on the word “lambskin” or “sheepskin.” Look at the actual construction and leather specifications as well.

How Is Real Leather Different From Synthetic Leather?

Real leather comes from animal hides or skins that have been tanned and processed. Synthetic leather is manufactured to imitate the appearance of natural leather and can use materials such as polyurethane. The two materials can look similar, especially in photographs, but their structure is different. Real leather has a natural fiber structure and can show variations from the original hide. Synthetic leather is manufactured, so its surface can be made much more uniform. The right choice depends on what you need. Some buyers prefer genuine leather for its natural material, durability, feel, and ability to develop character over time. Others choose synthetic alternatives because they want a particular price point, appearance, or material preference. The important thing is to know exactly what you are buying.

How Do Different Types of Leather Compare?

A quick comparison can make the terminology easier to understand.

The table is only a starting point because leather quality depends on much more than the name of the material.

Which Type of Leather Is Best for Jackets?

There is no single best leather for every jacket. The best option depends on the style, weight, comfort, durability, climate, and the way you plan to wear the jacket. For a soft fashion jacket, lambskin can be a very comfortable choice because of its lightweight and supple feel. For a heavier motorcycle or utility jacket, cowhide can make more sense because it can provide a stronger and more substantial feel. Suede works well when you want a softer textured appearance. Sheepskin can also be a good choice for comfortable outerwear, especially when the leather is selected and finished for clothing. The important thing is to match the leather to the purpose of the jacket rather than simply choosing the most expensive sounding leather term.

Does More Expensive Leather Always Mean Better Leather?

Not necessarily. Price can be influenced by the type of hide, leather grade, tanning method, thickness, finishing process, craftsmanship, brand, and many other factors. A very expensive leather may be perfect for one type of product but unnecessary for another. For example, someone looking for a lightweight fashion jacket may prefer soft lambskin, while someone riding a motorcycle may prioritize a heavier leather.

The right question is not simply:

“Which leather is the most expensive?”

A better question is:

“Which leather is right for the way I will use this product?”

That usually leads to a much better buying decision.

What Should You Check Before Buying a Leather Jacket?

Start by checking the actual material. If the product says lambskin, cowhide, or sheepskin, you know the animal source. If it says PU or faux leather, you are dealing with a synthetic or leather alternative, depending on the exact construction. Next, check the thickness and overall construction if the information is available. You should also look at stitching, lining, zippers, hardware, sizing, and the quality of the finish. A good leather jacket is not only about the hide. Construction matters just as much because the jacket needs to hold together and remain comfortable during regular use. At Danni Leathers, leather jackets are produced with attention to stitching, sizing, construction, and quality checking before orders are prepared for customers.

10 Important Facts About Leather Types

Here are some quick points worth remembering:

1. Full grain leather keeps the natural grain surface of the hide.
2. Corrected grain leather has been mechanically treated on the surface to create a more uniform appearance.
3. Suede is commonly made from the split or flesh side of leather and has a soft, brushed surface.
4. Lambskin comes from young sheep and is generally known for its soft and lightweight feel.
5. Sheepskin can refer to leather from sheep and can also describe wool on sheepskin when the fleece remains attached.
6. Cowhide is widely used for leather products where a stronger and more substantial material is useful.
7. PU stands for polyurethane and is used to create synthetic leather like materials.
8. Faux leather is a broad term for materials designed to imitate real leather.
9. PU leather and faux leather are not always separate categories. PU can be one type of faux leather.
10. The name of the leather alone does not determine its quality. Processing, thickness, finishing, and craftsmanship also matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of leather?

There is no single best type of leather. Full grain, top grain, lambskin, cowhide, suede, and other types are suited to different products and purposes.

Is genuine leather real leather?

Yes. Genuine leather refers to real animal leather. However, the term does not automatically mean the highest quality leather.

Is lambskin better than cowhide?

Not necessarily. Lambskin is generally softer and lighter, while cowhide can provide a stronger and more substantial feel. The better option depends on how you plan to use the product.

Is sheepskin the same as lambskin?

They come from the same animal species, but lambskin refers specifically to skin from a young sheep. Sheepskin is a broader term and can refer to sheep leather more generally.

Is suede real leather?

Yes. Suede can be real leather when it is made from animal hide. Its soft surface comes from how the leather is processed.

Is PU leather real leather?

Fully synthetic PU leather is not real animal leather. It is a polyurethane based synthetic material designed to imitate leather.

Is faux leather real leather?

No. Faux leather is made to imitate real leather. The exact material used can vary.

Is cowhide good for leather jackets?

Yes. Cowhide can be a good option for jackets where a stronger and heavier leather is preferred.

Which leather is best for a soft leather jacket?

Lambskin is a popular choice when softness, flexibility, and a lightweight feel are important.

What is the difference between full grain and top grain leather?

Full grain keeps the natural grain surface largely intact. Top grain refers to leather made from the upper grain portion and may receive some surface correction depending on the product.

Final Thoughts

There are many different types of leather, and the terminology can seem confusing at first. The easiest way to understand it is to remember that some terms describe the animal source, while others describe the way the leather has been processed. Lambskin, sheepskin, and cowhide tell you where the leather comes from. Full grain, top grain, corrected grain, and suede tell you more about the structure and processing of the material. Then you have alternatives such as PU leather and faux leather, which are designed to give you a leather like appearance without being the same as traditional animal leather. Once you understand these differences, shopping for a leather jacket becomes much easier. Instead of choosing a product simply because it says “premium leather,” you can look at the actual material, construction, thickness, finish, and intended use. And that is the real key to choosing good leather: know what the material is, know how you will use it, and choose accordingly.