PU leather: reading the label
PU leather is a maker's term. Here is what the FTC Guides say about leather-look materials.
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A maker's term
PU leather is a term makers use on labels. Part 24 does not use it. We do not say what any PU leather label means for a given shoe.
The disclosure rule
The Guides say that if non-leather material "appears to be leather," that fact "should be disclosed," with examples such as "Not leather; Imitation leather; Simulated leather; Vinyl; Vinyl coated fabric; or Plastic."
The word leather
The FTC Leather Guides say it is "unfair or deceptive to use the unqualified term 'leather' or other unqualified terms suggestive of leather to describe industry products unless the industry product so described is composed in all substantial parts of leather."
Where it should appear
The Guides say disclosures should be "of such conspicuousness and clarity as to be noted by purchasers and prospective purchasers casually inspecting the products."
Ask the maker
If a label is unclear, ask the maker what each part of the shoe is made of.
This is general information, not legal or medical advice.
Sources: eCFR, 16 CFR Part 24, Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products.
FAQ
General information only, not medical advice. Material labels are the maker's: check the label for each part of the shoe. Fit varies by maker and by person, so check the maker's size chart and the return policy. If you have foot pain or a foot or health condition, talk to your doctor or a podiatrist.
Next: imitation leather
If it appears to be leather.
