What is the difference between Alcantara and suede?
3 Answers
Alcantara and suede are somewhat similar, but the former is a composite fiber that is easy to clean, while the latter is the reverse side of cowhide (hence also called "reverse leather"). Alcantara was invented in 1970 by Dr. Miyoshi Okamoto of Toray Industries, Inc. in Japan, and its composition is 68% polyester and 32% polyurethane, not genuine leather, though it is relatively expensive. Here is some relevant information about Alcantara: Alcantara has advantages such as excellent hand feel, high friction coefficient, great softness, rich color, strong durability/wear resistance, and easy maintenance. Through a series of unique and advanced processing techniques, Alcantara has become a high-end, innovative new material. This process has yet to be successfully replicated, making this material exclusive to Alcantara. Since 2009, Alcantara has been certified as a carbon-neutral material and has been identified as having active components that can reduce and offset CO2 emissions. Alcantara has excellent plasticity and can be used to make steering wheels. For example, the sides of the Huracan's steering wheel are wrapped in Alcantara material to improve grip and increase friction.
Among the several cars I've driven, I've used both Alcantara and suede, with the biggest differences lying in material and practicality. Alcantara is a synthetic microfiber that feels soft yet slightly velvety—it's especially anti-slip on steering wheels, even with sweaty hands. Suede, made from genuine leather like nubuck, is more comfortable but prone to absorbing stains (e.g., coffee spills are tough to clean). In rain, Alcantara’s water resistance shines—splashes won’t seep through, and a wipe with a damp cloth suffices for cleaning. Suede requires specialized cleaners, making maintenance trickier. Price-wise, Alcantara is cheaper; decent kits cost around ¥2,000, while suede’s genuine leather drives up costs. Long-term, Alcantara outlasts, resisting wear and deformation—mine looked new after three years. For car interiors, I’d pick Alcantara for daily commutes and suede for luxury showcases in high-end settings.
From a material perspective, Alcantara and suede are worlds apart. Alcantara is artificially manufactured, primarily composed of polyester and polyurethane fibers, offering a feel similar to suede but more durable. Suede, on the other hand, is natural genuine leather derived from the inner layer of animal hide—soft and skin-friendly but prone to aging. The key differences lie in durability and maintenance: Alcantara boasts strong UV resistance, ensuring no fading or cracking during summer drives, and water splashes pose little issue. Suede, however, easily stains when wet and requires regular care, such as gentle cleaning with a soft-bristle brush during maintenance. In regions with variable climates, Alcantara adapts better, while suede proves more delicate. Cost-wise, Alcantara is economical, covering a steering wheel for around 3,000 RMB, whereas suede doubles that expense. I recommend considering environmental factors—Alcantara is recyclable, reducing ecological impact, while suede relies on resource-intensive production.
