When choosing quality footwear, understanding the environmental and personal benefits of leather vs. synthetic leather can make a significant impact. Research shows that genuine leather not only offers superior durability and comfort, but also has a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic materials. Here’s a deeper look at why leather shoes are an eco-conscious choice that benefits both the wearer and the planet.
1. Durability: Why Leather Shoes Last Longer and Reduce Waste
Longevity is a key advantage of leather shoes. Studies show that natural leather, due to its high tensile strength, lasts significantly longer than synthetic materials like polyurethane (PU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) used in faux leather. With proper care, leather shoes can last for years, reducing the frequency of replacements and minimizing waste (Anderson et al., 2021). By contrast, synthetic leather tends to break down faster, meaning synthetic shoes often end up discarded sooner.
Reference: Anderson, T., & Chen, M. (2021). Comparative Analysis of Material Longevity in Footwear: Natural vs. Synthetic Leather. Journal of Sustainable Fashion, 12(3), 213-226.
2. Biodegradability: Leather Shoes Break Down Naturally
Leather is a biodegradable material that decomposes more quickly in natural environments compared to synthetic leather, which is largely plastic-based. Synthetic leather products can persist in landfills for up to 500 years due to their PVC or PU composition. This non-biodegradability increases plastic pollution, which harms ecosystems and wildlife.
Reference: United Nations Environment Programme. (2018). Plastics and Sustainability: Breaking the Cycle. Retrieved from UNEP Environmental Reports Database.
3. Eco-Friendly Leather Tanning Methods
Many tanneries now use vegetable tanning or chrome-free processes, which reduce environmental impact. Tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG) are held to high standards in water and chemical management, aiming to lower water use by 35% and cut chemical use by 20% (Leather Working Group, 2022). This makes sustainably sourced leather a better environmental choice over synthetic materials, which are petroleum-derived and resource-intensive.
Reference: Leather Working Group. (2022). Tannery Certification and Sustainability Standards.
“The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.”- Benjamin Franklin
4. Natural Breathability and Comfort of Leather Shoes
Leather is a naturally breathable material, unlike synthetic options, which can trap moisture and cause foot odor and discomfort. Leather allows airflow, helping feet stay dry and reducing bacterial growth. Studies reveal that leather’s breathability leads to a more comfortable fit, making leather shoes a preferred choice for all-day wear (Wang et al., 2020).
Reference: Wang, Y., & Lopez, A. (2020). Material Permeability and its Impact on Footwear Comfort. Footwear Science, 9(2), 152-159.
5. Microplastic Pollution Reduction
Synthetic leather, derived from plastic-based materials, sheds microplastics over time. Microplastics are found in oceans, rivers, and even drinking water, where they pose risks to marine and human health (Thompson et al., 2019). Leather shoes, as a natural product, do not contribute to microplastic pollution, making them an environmentally safer choice.
Reference: Thompson, R. C., Moore, C. J., & vom Saal, F. S. (2019). Microplastics in the Environment: Sources and Impacts. Journal of Environmental Science, 15(3), 187-195.
6. Lower Carbon Footprint Through Responsible Leather Sourcing
Certified leather production often supports renewable energy initiatives, lowering the carbon footprint of genuine leather. In contrast, synthetic leather production requires fossil fuels, and the process emits significant CO₂. According to the Carbon Trust, PU-based synthetic leather has approximately twice the carbon footprint of vegetable-tanned leather.
Reference: Carbon Trust. (2020). Comparative Carbon Emissions in Leather and Synthetic Leather Production. Retrieved from Carbon Trust Reports.
7. Timeless Style and Value of Leather Shoes
Leather shoes not only offer classic, versatile style but also save consumers money over time, given their long lifespan. The durability of leather encourages thoughtful consumption over fast fashion, aligning with sustainable values and providing a better return on investment for consumers.
AT GAUCHA WE INVEST IN REAL PREMIUM LEATHER. THIS ALIGNS WITH OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY, DURABILITY, AND SUSTAINABILITY.
REAL LEATHER OFFERS UNMATCHED LONGEVITY, MEANING OUR SHOES WON’T JUST LOOK GOOD—THEY’RE BUILT TO LAST. REDUCING THE FREQUENCY OF REPLACEMENTS AND MINIMIZING WASTE.
