Leather wallets are everywhere right now.
But here's the thing: with so many options online, it's easy to get duped into buying something that's not the real deal.
So, if you're wondering how to tell if that stylish wallet is legit or just pretending, here's your go-to guide on how to identify real leather wallet — without getting fooled!
Touch It: Real Leather Feels Like, Well, Leather!
What is the first thing to do when you pick up a leather wallet?
Feel it! Real leather has this excellent texture—rough, a little uneven, and not super smooth like plastic or faux leather.
It's natural, you know?
It might even have tiny imperfections, which only adds to its character! Fake leather though? Feels too slick, almost like rubber. Yeah, you can tell.
Real leather will age like fine wine, developing cool creases over time. Fake leather? Nah, it'll start cracking like old paint.
Check the Label: Don't Be Fooled by Fancy Words
Now, for this one's key, always check the label.
Real leather wallets will have labels like "Full-Grain Leather" or “Top-Grain Leather." If it just says "Genuine Leather,” that’s real too, but maybe not top-tier.
But if you see words like “PU Leather” or “Bonded Leather,”
RUN! That’s fancy talk for synthetic stuff.
Sniff It Out: Leather Smells Amazing, Fake Doesn’t
Okay, this might sound crazy, but trust me—smell it.
Yes, give that wallet a good sniff!
Real leather has a distinct smell—kind of earthy, rich, and natural, like the inside of a fancy leather shop.
Then how to know it's fake leather? Glad to ask!
It’ll smell like a bad mix of chemicals, plastic, and, well...not good.
If your nose is getting hit with something like a factory floor, it’s a fake!
Look at the Edges: Real Leather Isn’t Perfectly Cut
Real leather has character. Look at the edges of the wallet—they’re not supposed to be perfect!
They’ll look rough or raw, maybe even slightly frayed. Instead, fale leather too smooth, too polished, and too perfect—basically too good to be true!
It’s all machine-made. Real leather edges are naturally unrefined.
And don’t forget to check the stitching. Is the stitching too straight, too perfect?
Hmm... that’s usually machine work on synthetic material.
Handmade leather stitching can be a little quirky, but that’s where the charm lies.
Weight Matters: Heavy Is Good
Full Grain Leather Travel Wallet from Deerhandmade
Surprise! Real or top-grain leather has some weight to it.
Pick up a leather wallet, and if it feels kind of hefty, like it's packed with quality, you’re on the right track.
Fake leather is light because it’s made from cheap materials.
A good leather wallet has that solid, premium feel.
Think of it like this: real leather = weight, fake leather = featherweight.
Easy enough to remember, right?
Price Check: Too Cheap? Think Again
Let’s be honest—If leather is natural, it isn't exactly cheap.
If you see a leather wallet with a super low price tag, be suspicious.
Good leather is an investment. It’s gonna last years, and that kind of craftsmanship comes with a bit of a cost.
If the price seems like a steal, it’s probably because the wallet is stealing your chance at owning something genuine.
So, unless it’s on a crazy sale, trust that reasonable leather costs good money.
Verify the Brand: Do Some Digging
Finally, always double-check the brand, especially if you're buying online.
Look for reviews, visit the official website, and make sure the brand is trustworthy.
Some sellers love to use the “leather” label loosely, so doing a little research can save you from disappointment.
If a brand you’ve never heard of sells a leather wallet for half the price of a well-known store, you might want to dig deeper.
Real leather brands stand by their quality—if they don’t, something’s off.
Related leather wallet articles:
- How to clean a leather wallet
- Best leather for wallets
- Types of Wallet
- Bifold vs. Trifold Wallet - Which One To Choose?
- Why shift to Deerhandmade Wallets
Discover Real Leather Wallets at Deerhandmade
At Deerhandmade, we don’t play around when it comes to leather.
All our wallets are made from 100% full-grain leather, designed to last you a lifetime. No gimmicks, no fakes—just solid, handcrafted quality.
Check out our men’s leather wallets collection and find the one that suits your vibe!
By following these tips, you'll quickly know How to identify real leather wallet and avoid getting tricked by fake ones.
Trust your senses feel it, smell it, check the edges, and don’t be afraid to spend a little extra for something that’s gonna last you years.
Happy shopping!
