Pros and Cons of Synthetic Leather Car Seats

Synthetic Leathers are a popular trim choice in modern vehicles, replicating the styling and appearance of genuine leather. These (often PU based) fabrics have some distinct characteristics:

• Soft Texture: Modern synthetic leathers (like PU or eco-leather) are engineered to mimic the supple feel of real leather, offering a smooth and cushioned surface.
• Foam Padding: Most synthetic leather seats are backed with foam layers that enhance comfort and reduce pressure points during long drives.
• Supportive Fit: Tailored seat designs help synthetic leather mould to your body, offering ergonomic support and reducing fatigue.
• Seat Feature Support: While synthetic leather isn’t as breathable as genuine leather, many newer versions include perforations to assist with seat features such as heated or cooled seats and facilitate air flow improvement.

Things to Watch Out for in Synthetic Leather Trims

• Heat Retention: In hot weather, synthetic leathers can feel hot and clammy. This can happen especially if the fabric is not perforated or paired with cooling features to assist in adjusting the temperature. Without these features in place, this can lead to trapped moisture in warmer conditions.
• Cold Sensitivity: In winter, synthetic leathers may feel chilly to the touch however vehicles equipped with seat warmers can easily offset this. The down side is that this increases the potential for moisture entrapment between the occupant and the seat.
• Breathability: It’s less breathable than natural leather, which can affect comfort during long drives in extreme climates.

Comfort vs. Maintenance Trade-Off

Synthetic leather is easy to clean and generally stain-resistant which adds to its overall convenience. While it may not match the breathability of alternate trims, many drivers find it comfortable for most seasons of the year.

The Pro’s of Seat Covers over Synthetic Leather Car Seats

Protection from Wear & Tear

• Shields synthetic leather from scratches, scuffs, and punctures, especially from pets, tools, or heavy use.
• Prevents fading and cracking caused by UV exposure and temperature fluctuations.

Improved Comfort & Temperature Control

• Seat covers made from breathable materials (like canvas, sheepskin, neoprene, or polyester) can reduce heat retention in summer and add warmth in winter.
• Helps avoid that sticky feeling synthetic leather can cause on hot days.
• Natural fibre product such as as Natures Fleece Sheepskin seat Covers use the superior properties of wool to provide all season all year round comfort for vehicle occupants.

Enhanced Spill Protection

• Covers are typically easy to clean and can be removed and washed for heavier soiling or simply wiped or sponged clean.
• Protects against spills, stains, and odours, especially useful for families or rideshare drivers.

Preserves Resale Value

• Keeps the original seats in better condition, which can boost resale appeal and reduce the need for costly repairs or retrimming.

The Verdict

Synthetic Leathers as an upholstery fabric for seat are perfectly acceptable and fit for for purposes for many vehicle owners. Covering synthetic leather seats may simply be for the purpose of protecting and preserving the vehicle.

Alternatively, if you are finding that your seats are not to your liking, there more than a few seat cover options that can increase your personal comfort and enjoyment of your vehicle.