Leather is the strongest and most durable of all upholstery materials.
It lasts up to four times as long as fabric
It is hard to scratch; repairs can be made with touch-up color, or a felt tip pen
Heat and fire-resistant, doesn’t melt or emit toxic fumes
Modern leather does not peel or crack, and is hard to puncture
It is flexible and retains its shape
It is the best upholstery material for people with dust mite and pet allergies; it retains less dander and is easier to clean
Resists sun damage
It breathes, assumes body temperature quickly, is comfortable in every season
Ages well, becomes softer, and acquires a patina
It is practical, inexpensive, and easy to clean
Price has become more reasonable
Comparing leather upholstery
Vinyl/top grain where you sit (like Leather II) – in time, the color of leather will change; vinyl color will not
Split hide/top grain – split hide is made from the outer layer of a hide from which the underside has been split to give it more uniform thickness; splitting may occur in less than 7 years, compared to 30-50 years for top grain leather, if combined with a good frame