Many wallets claim “genuine leather,” but not all leathers are equal — and “faux leather” can look convincing. Here’s how to tell the difference.
1. Look & Texture
- Genuine (full/top-grain) leather has natural imperfections, grain patterns, slight variation, and an organic look.
- Faux leather / PU / bonded leather tends to have a uniform, plastic-like texture or repeated embossing pattern.
2. Smell
Real leather has a distinctive, rich, earthy smell. Faux leather smells like plastic, chemicals, or new synthetic materials.
3. Edges
Genuine leather often has a raw or fibrous edge where the cut shows layers of fibers. Faux leather typically has a sealed, uniform, “plastic” edge.
4. Flex / Bend Test
Fold a corner — genuine leather wrinkles gently and shows slight color change; faux tends to peel or crack the surface.
5. Water (Absorbency)
Place a tiny drop of water on an inconspicuous spot — genuine leather will absorb or darken slightly, faux leather will repel and beads up.
6. Price & Branding
If the price is extremely low relative to high-quality leather goods, that’s a red flag. Reliable brands usually disclose leather type (full-grain, top-grain) rather than vague “genuine leather.”
7. Labeling Traps
Don’t assume “genuine leather” is high grade — in many jurisdictions “genuine leather” just means “real leather” (not synthetic), but can be low-quality split or bonded layers.
Using these techniques, you’ll be better equipped to distinguish a true mens trifold leather wallet from a subpar imitation.
