It is a Fau Leather (not real), I knew this when I bought our Bighorn and haven't been disappointed with it yet. We spent 3 continuous months in it and the recliners have held up well to date. But I am married to Mrs. Clean. I liked the idea of something that wouldn't stain easily and hopefully would hold up well. Leather can, but today it appears that the grades of leather vary widely. At this price point I really didn't expect leather.