"Apple leather" is a plant-based vegan leather (synthetic/artificial leather) created by synthesizing resin from the pomace of apple juice that would otherwise have been discarded.
By adding plant-derived ingredients, it significantly reduces the use of petroleum-derived raw materials compared to conventional synthetic/artificial leather, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
With the desire for our products to be cherished and used for as long as possible, we incorporate functional "apple leather" into our products, which offers superior durability, lightness, and water repellency compared to conventional synthetic leather.
Aplena: Apple leather made from Aomori apples
Aplena, a Japanese upcycled leather, was planned and developed in collaboration with domestic manufacturers, from raw material procurement.
The Story
LOVST TOKYO has previously offered plant-based leather items, but when considering CO2 emissions in material procurement, we explored the possibility of utilizing local resources. In this context, with the cooperation of JA Aoren (Aomori Prefecture Rural Industry Agricultural Cooperative Federation) and Kyowa Life Techno Co., Ltd. in Aomori Prefecture, we embarked on the development of "aplena," a domestic apple leather.
Upcycling Wasted Apples
JA Aoren collects and processes approximately 20,000 tons of raw apples annually, of which approximately 6,000 tons are discharged as "residue" such as pomace. By utilizing this as a raw material for synthetic leather, we have created leather that reduces the use of petroleum-derived raw materials and is considerate of both animals and the global environment.
Features of Aplena
The resin layer on the surface of the material uses a polycarbonate-based polyurethane resin, which has shown a high durability of over 10 years in jungle tests that measure the degree of deterioration due to aging. Compared to inexpensive synthetic leathers generally available, this is a high-quality branded leather with an upcycling story.
aplena by LOVST TOKYO
"aplena by LOVST TOKYO" is LOVST TOKYO's original, high-quality apple leather.
While being a sustainable, animal- and eco-friendly material, this plant-based artificial leather is packed with unique features, including a luxurious appearance and durability, as well as an original lineup of colors and textures.
Apple Leather Collection
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Sold outApple Half-moon Tote Bag
Regular price ¥29,700 JPYRegular priceUnit price per -
Apple Square Rucksack
Regular price ¥29,700 JPYRegular priceUnit price per -
Apple Room Key
Regular price ¥4,950 JPYRegular priceUnit price per -
Apple 2-Way Tote Bag
Regular price ¥24,800 JPYRegular priceUnit price per -
Apple 4-Way Gather Bag
Regular price ¥19,800 JPYRegular priceUnit price per -
Apple 3-Way Watch Band
Regular price From ¥7,900 JPYRegular priceUnit price per -
Apple Samael Wallet
Regular price ¥19,800 JPYRegular priceUnit price per -
Apple Half-moon Wallet
Regular price ¥18,400 JPYRegular priceUnit price per¥17,800 JPYSale price ¥18,400 JPY
製造工程の画像
Apple Leather FAQs
よくある質問
Are there different types of apple leather?
LOVST TOKYO primarily uses Japanese-made apple leather "aplena" and Italian-made apple leather "Apple Skin."
Apple leathers made in China and Denmark are also available.
How long does it take for it to degrade?
It is generally said that synthetic leather, which is inexpensive and widely available, can peel after two to three years of use.
However, the "apple leather" handled by LOVST TOKYO is formulated with high-quality polyurethane resin, so it can be used safely for five years, depending on how it is used.
Furthermore, "aplena," our domestic apple leather, uses polycarbonate-based resin, a type of polyurethane. It has passed the 10-year standard in jungle tests*, which measure the degree of degradation. (Polycarbonate-based resins are generally used in high-durability furniture such as car seats and sofas.)
*A jungle test is an accelerated degradation test that assesses the service life of synthetic leather by placing it in a room artificially set to 95% humidity and 70 degrees Celsius to promote degradation.
How many apples are used?
The resin layer on the surface contains 20-30% apple-derived natural ingredients.
How do I care for it?
If the surface gets dirty, wipe it with a towel wrung out with warm water. Then, gently wipe it dry with a soft towel.
While there is no special maintenance required as there would be with animal leather, you can enjoy your product for a longer time by keeping it clean, for example, by regularly wiping off dirt and moisture.
To ensure longer use, we also recommend the vegan leather cream handled by LOVST TOKYO.
Can I enjoy the aging process?
While it doesn't offer the aspect of enjoying how it ages over time, a major characteristic of "apple leather" is that it requires almost no daily maintenance.
For example, even if it gets wet, it won't stain like real leather.
Our staff has compiled a Staff Blog post on the condition of a product they've been using for three years, so please check it out here.
"Apple leather" can no longer be used as a name, can it?
Please read this article for our views and future direction.
Other inquiries
For other questions, please feel free to contact us via the chat on the bottom left or our official LINE account.
Related Post
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拾いましょうか
Japanese-made "Apple Leather" finally debuts! Here's a bit about its development background.
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ニュース
I introduced our Japanese apple leather at the Sustainable Brands International Conference 2023 Tokyo Marunouchi.
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Staff Blog
The result of using apple leather items for three years now...
