Faux leather, also known as synthetic leather, is a material that is designed to substitute for leather in various applications where a leather-like finish is desired but the actual material is cost-prohibitive, unsuitable, or for ethical concerns. It is a synthetic material that is made to look and feel like real leather, and it is cheaper than genuine leather, requiring less care. Faux leather is made from a fabric base such as polyester, which is then given an imitation leather finish and texture with wax, dye, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or polyurethane. It is known under many names, including leatherette, imitation leather, vegan leather, PU leather (polyurethane), and pleather. Faux leather is often used in clothing fabrics, furniture upholstery, watercraft upholstery, and automotive interiors.

Some of the pros of using faux leather include its affordability, versatility, and durability. It is also easier to maintain than genuine leather, and it does not crack or fade easily. However, faux leather does not last as long as real leather, and it does not wear out attractively. Additionally, some types of faux leather, such as those made from PVC, are not easily cleaned.

In summary, faux leather is a synthetic material that is designed to look and feel like real leather. It is cheaper than genuine leather and requires less care, making it a popular alternative in various applications such as clothing fabrics, furniture upholstery, and automotive interiors. However, it does not last as long as real leather and does not wear out attractively.