Natural or eco leather is most commonly used in the production of leather accessories. Belts, wallets, shoes, and bags are typically made from these materials. Opinions about these types of leather are usually divided—natural leather is known for its durability, while eco-leather is chosen by those who care about animal welfare. The choice is a personal matter and often debatable, but it’s undeniable that the industry uses both.
In this article:
- What is natural leather?
- What is eco-leather?
- Which leather is better?
- Zagatto's natural leather
What is natural leather?
It is a material of animal origin. A large portion of leather goods are made from cowhide. It has a characteristic look, texture, and smell. These properties result from preparatory processes such as cleaning, tanning, finishing, and preservation.
Natural leather's durability is undoubtedly one of its main advantages. There's a reason why people often say a leather wallet or bag is an investment for years. An added benefit is its breathability, which allows moisture to circulate—an especially important feature for leather clothing.
Leather is neutral, so it doesn’t cause allergic reactions, making it a great choice for people with allergies.
Another advantage of leather is its timeless elegance. Leather never goes out of style and always looks sophisticated. That’s why investing in a high-quality leather wallet is simply a smart purchase.
What is eco-leather?
Eco-leather mimics the look of natural leather. Thanks to modern technologies, it’s often hard to tell them apart at first glance—every detail looks nearly identical. In practice, eco-leather is polyester fabric coated with a layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
This manufacturing process means that no animal-based materials are used, which is an important factor for many. Eco-leather is commonly referred to as “skai” and can be found in a wide range of products—from wallets to sofas.
Which leather is better?
Many supporters of natural leather argue that it’s more durable. However, today’s technologies have made it possible for eco-leather to match that quality. Most often, the deciding factor is one’s sensitivity to animal welfare and ethical production.
Zagatto’s Natural Leather
At Zagatto, we primarily use natural leather. As a result, our wallets are incredibly durable, elegant, and timeless. Thanks to our minimalist designs, they appeal even to the most demanding customers—making them a perfect gift idea.



