Rexine vs. Leather — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on October 29, 2023
Rexine is a synthetic material resembling leather, while leather is a natural material derived from animal hides.
Difference Between Rexine and Leather
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Rexine and leather, though often used interchangeably in some contexts, have distinct differences. Rexine is a brand name that has become synonymous with a type of synthetic leather. It is man-made, often crafted from cellulose or other polymers. Leather, in contrast, is a natural material made from the tanned hides of animals, primarily cattle.
In terms of durability, leather usually has the edge. It is known for its longevity and ability to age gracefully over time. Rexine, being synthetic, might not have the same lifespan as genuine leather but offers the advantage of being more resistant to water and certain types of wear.
Aesthetically, genuine leather boasts unique textures and imperfections, given its natural origins. These nuances can make leather items more unique. Rexine, however, offers a more uniform appearance as it's manufactured to specific standards.
When considering the environmental impact, leather production involves tanning processes that can be harmful, especially if not managed correctly. Rexine production also has its environmental concerns, primarily due to the use of plastics and chemicals. Both materials, therefore, present sustainability challenges.
Cost is another major distinguishing factor. Genuine leather tends to be more expensive due to its processing and natural origins. Rexine, being mass-produced and synthetic, is generally more affordable, making it a popular choice for those seeking a leather-like appearance at a lower price point.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Synthetic, man-made
Natural, derived from animal hides
Durability
Generally less durable than leather
Known for longevity and graceful aging
Appearance
Uniform, consistent
Unique textures, natural imperfections
Environmental Impact
Production involves plastics and chemicals
Tanning processes can be harmful
Cost
Typically more affordable
Generally more expensive
Compare with Definitions
Rexine
A synthetic material made primarily from cellulose.
Rexine covers are popular for budget-friendly furniture.
Leather
A natural fabric known for its durability and flexibility.
Leather gloves provide both comfort and protection.
Rexine
A leather substitute often used in upholstery and bookbinding.
The chair's rexine fabric was smooth and shiny.
Leather
The skin of an animal, with the hair removed, prepared for use.
The craftsman sourced leather from local farms.
Rexine
A type of artificial leather.
The wallet is made of rexine, not real leather.
Leather
A material used in fashion, upholstery, and various crafts.
The leather jacket gave him a rugged look.
Rexine
A brand name that has become generic for faux leather.
She bought a rexine jacket because it was cruelty-free.
Leather
Tanned or dressed hide used especially for clothing.
The handbag was made of genuine leather and had a hefty price tag.
Rexine
A fabric treated to resemble the texture of leather.
The diary had a rexine cover with intricate designs.
Leather
A material made from the tanned hides of animals.
The leather boots lasted for years without wear.
Rexine
Rexine is the registered trademark of an artificial leather leathercloth fabric produced in the United Kingdom by Rexine Ltd of Hyde, near Manchester, England. It was made of cloth surfaced with a mixture of cellulose nitrate (a low explosive also used as the propellant in firearms rounds), camphor oil, pigment and alcohol, embossed to look like leather.
Leather
Leather is a strong, flexible and durable material obtained from the tanning, or chemical treatment, of animal skins and hides to prevent decay. The most common leathers come from cattle, sheep, goats, equine animals, buffalo, pigs and hogs, and aquatic animals such as seals and alligators.Leather can be used to make a variety of items, including clothing, footwear, handbags, furniture, tools and sports equipment, and lasts for decades.
Rexine
An artificial leather, used in upholstery and bookbinding.
Leather
A material made from the skin of an animal by tanning or a similar process
A leather jacket
Rexine
A type of leather imitation, as used for things like book covers and upholstery.
Leather
A piece of leather as a polishing cloth.
Leather
Short for stirrup leather
Leather
Beat or thrash (someone)
He caught me and leathered me black and blue
Leather
The dressed or tanned hide of an animal.
Leather
Any of various articles or parts made of dressed or tanned hide, such as a boot or strap.
Leather
The flap of a dog's ear.
Leather
To cover wholly or in part with the dressed or tanned hide of an animal.
Leather
(Informal) To beat with a strap made of hide.
Leather
Made of, relating to, or resembling dressed or tanned animal hide.
Leather
(Slang) Of or relating to the wearing of leather, or patronized by people who wear leather, especially as a sexual fetish
A leather bar.
Leather
A tough material produced from the skin of animals, by tanning or similar process, used e.g. for clothing.
Leather
A piece of the above used for polishing.
Leather
(colloquial) A cricket ball or football.
Leather
(plural: leathers) clothing made from the skin of animals, often worn by motorcycle riders.
Leather
(baseball) A good defensive play
Leather
(boxing) A punch.
Leather
The skin.
Leather
Made of leather.
Leather
Referring to one who wears leather clothing (motorcycle jacket, chaps over 501 jeans, boots), especially as a sign of sadomasochistic homosexuality.
Leather
(transitive) To cover with leather.
Leather
(transitive) To strike forcefully.
Leather
(transitive) To spank or beat with a leather belt or strap.
Leather
The skin of an animal, or some part of such skin, with the hair removed, and tanned, tawed, or otherwise dressed for use; also, dressed hides, collectively.
Leather
The skin.
Leather
To beat, as with a thong of leather.
Leather
Of, pertaining to or made of leather; consisting of leather; as, a black leather jacket.
Leather
An animal skin made smooth and flexible by removing the hair and then tanning
Common Curiosities
Why is rexine often chosen over leather?
Rexine is usually more affordable and water-resistant.
Does leather always come from cows?
No, leather can be sourced from various animals, though cows are common.
Is rexine the same as leather?
No, rexine is synthetic while leather is natural.
Which lasts longer, rexine or leather?
Leather typically has a longer lifespan.
Are all synthetic leathers called rexine?
No, rexine is a specific brand that became a generic term for faux leather.
Is rexine eco-friendly?
Rexine production involves plastics and chemicals, posing environmental concerns.
Is leather resistant to water?
Generally, leather isn't as water-resistant as rexine.
Why is leather more expensive than rexine?
Leather's natural origins and processing contribute to its higher cost.
Are there varying qualities of rexine?
Yes, the quality of rexine can vary based on manufacturing standards.
How is leather treated to prevent decay?
It undergoes a tanning process.
Can rexine be recycled?
Some types can be, but recycling processes vary.
Can rexine products resemble genuine leather?
Yes, rexine is designed to mimic leather's appearance.
Does leather breathe better than rexine?
Yes, being natural, leather tends to breathe better.
Why might someone choose rexine over leather?
Reasons can include cost, ethical considerations, or specific product features.
Are there cruelty-free leather alternatives besides rexine?
Yes, there are various synthetic and plant-based leather alternatives available.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
