New upholstery , real or faux leather ?

[andy59]

Boat is being reupholstered and we are not sure weather to have real leather or the vinyl stuff , it looks very similar and feels the same as real leather but while the job is being done it doesnt matter which we choose . New leather looks nice but i have seen some old boats with saggy leather seat that have put me of a bit ! . Has anyone got an opinion or experiance to help us make up our minds , thanks as allways any info gratefully received .

 

[rafiki_]

For me it depends on how well the leather will cope with the weather, and how easy it is to keep clean and pristine. There are many leather upholstered boats out there, 10 years or more old, and if the leather is the right grade, and properly treated, then it can look good for a long time.

 

[kashurst]

if leather is in the sun a lot say in a flybridge saloon it can get wrecked if you don't close curtains/ fit outside shade covers when you are away, if down below on a targa style boat it will mostly be in the shade and last very well.

 

[jfm]

it looks very similar and feels the same as real leather

It's gotta be leather. Cloth vs real leather is a valid debate to have, but not vinyl vs leather. When it's done you most certianly will be able to tell the difference. Vinyl is way way inferior from a touchy feely point of view and you shouldn't go there imho. It's just about ok sometimes on external cockpit cushions, but that's as far as it goes. You wouldn't spec vinyl on a new car interior (if offered, as mercedes do for the taxi market) would you?

 

[David of Essex]

Normally two types of leather to chose from Aniline and Pigmented. Aniline is more softer and will scratch with your finger nail, will return to normal with a rub with your fingers. Pigmented is protected and will resist water staining a bit more robust to look at.
David

 

[andy59]

Thanks guys we are going to go and decide tomorrow . Boat is 12 years old and we plan to keep her for at least 3 years so the leather would be nicer and i suppose it will help when it comes to selling .

 

[johnchristie]

who are you using to do upholstery?
my boat has blue cloth and I want to change it

 

[andy59]

I am using Aquamarine in ringwood , very reasonable price and helpfull . Will post before and after detail pics when finished .

 

[andy59]

12 dark brown cow skins now ordered , just got 8 mtrs of 38mm sanitation hose to fit before it all comes back , ( old stuff stinks ).