PU, synthetic and leather: what the words mean on a footwear listing
A footwear listing usually names one material, but a shoe is made of at least three: the upper, the lining and the sole. They wear differently and they are often not the same material.
The terms
- Leather — animal hide. Moulds to the foot, needs occasional conditioning, marks with water.
- PU / synthetic / vegan leather — a coated fabric. Lighter, easier to wipe, does not mould to the foot, and creases at the flex point sooner.
- EVA / TPR sole — moulded soles. EVA is light and cushioned and compresses over time; TPR is denser and grips better on wet floors.
Where we stand
Where a page says PU or synthetic, the item is not animal leather and we never describe it as such. Where a page says leather, that is the supplier’s specification for the upper — the lining or sole may still be synthetic.
What this means day to day
PU chappals are the sensible choice for monsoon and for anything that meets water regularly. Leather is the better choice for something worn daily in dry months, provided you accept that it will darken and take the shape of your foot.