Types of vegan leather and examples in Japan

What comes to mind when you hear the word “vegan”? Many people may associate it with a plant-based diet excluding all foods from animal sources. From animal welfare or environmental conservation perspectives, veganism is also becoming a new standard in the fashion industry. Many animal-derived materials are used in clothing, such as fur, feathers and wool, of which leather is the most representative. As a substitute, vegan leather has been developed from various materials.

What is vegan leather?

Vegan leather is animal-free leather produced with artificial or plant-based materials. It may seem green, considering both the animals and the environment. However, we should keep in mind that not all vegan leather is environmentally friendly as you think, particularly when it’s made from plastic such as polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride. To help with making a better decision for the environment, animals and yourself, here is a list of some plant-based leather.

Mushroom leather

Mushroom leather is made from mycelium which is a root-like structure of fungi. Mycelium can be grown within about two weeks, resulting in a lower environmental impact to produce the resource. The two representative mushroom leathers are MYCEL and Mylo.

Unique design bow tie by QuatroGats

A Japanese leather product company, QuatroGats, has produced a mushroom leather bow tie made with MYCEL. MYCEL is a biodegradable material made from imperfect mushrooms sourced in Vietnam and is made without any toxic substances. The bow tie has cute mushroom patterns, which makes the tie unique.

Apple leather

Apple leather is made from imperfect apples, seeds and peels. After its invention in Italy, Japan has also created it with apples from Nagano and Aomori prefectures, which are famous for high-quality apples. Please note that most apple leather contains plastic to enhance durability and is not 100% biodegradable.

Elegant handbag and wallet by SORENA

SORENA invented Ringo Leather® with apple pomace from the apple juice- and cider-making process in Nagano prefecture. They created a wallet and a tote bag with this leather. These items are durable and functional with an elegant look. Their items are not available on the website yet, however, SORENA has just succeeded in crowdfunding. Wait for its official announcement!

Bamboo leather

Bamboo is known as an environmentally friendly resource because it grows quickly without agrochemicals or fertilizers. Bamboo leather is durable and sleek, and it feels soft and smooth.

Minimal design yoga mat by PEEL Lab

PEEL Lab is a biotech startup that transforms discarded plants and fruits into plant-based leather. It created a minimal yoga mat with pineapple leather, which is available on subscription. Contact the company for further information.

Pineapple leather

A London-based company, “Ananas Anam,” invented pineapple leather called Piñatex by upcycling waste pineapple leaves. Pineapple leather is strong, soft, flexible, light and breathable. Apparel brands known worldwide like H&M, Laura Strambi and Hugo Boss already use Piñatex. Items from these brands are available in Japan.

For those who seek better choices for the environment and animals, it is important to research the materials and production process as many different types of vegan leathers are available. We hope this list will help you make a more comfortable decision.