PU vs Microfiber vs Synthetic Suede: Choosing Upper Materials

Published 2026-11-11 · XiangChi

Synthetic upper materials look alike on a screen but behave differently on the line and on the foot. These are the three families most shoe programs work with.

PU synthetic leather

PU leather is a polyurethane coating on a fabric base. It comes in a very wide range of finishes: lychee grain, pebble grain, smooth matte, metallic and crinkle. It is the cost-effective choice for fashion, casual and kids' shoes.

Microfiber

Microfiber uses a dense base of very fine fibres impregnated with polyurethane. The hand feel is closer to leather, it is stronger at the same thickness and it costs more than standard PU. It suits sport and premium casual uppers.

Synthetic suede

Synthetic suede has a brushed surface. Knitted versions are soft and economical; microfiber-based suede is firmer and closer to real suede. Brands use it for uppers, linings and sandal footbeds.

What to ask before you order

• Thickness and roll width, so you can plan cutting.
• Backing fabric, which changes stretch and shape.
• A swatch from the colour card, to check colour and hand feel.
• Whether the item is in stock or made to order, which changes the minimum quantity.
• Any test report you need for your market, before you confirm bulk.

On this site, PU, microfiber and suede are shown with real colour cards. Ask Tracy for a swatch; small samples such as one yard are free, and you pay the courier.