Leather Or Cloth Seats??

OHARE · Mar 23, 2002

WHICH SEATS ARE MORE COMFORTABLE CLOTH OR LEATHER??
ALSO WHAT ABOUT IN THE WINTER, DOES THE LEATHER SEATS GET HARD?? (I KNOW THEY HAVE A WARMER, BUT IN CASE IT FAILS, I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ANYWAY.)

Coleman_lot · Mar 23, 2002

Definately cloth....doesn't burn your butt in summer and doesn't smell funny........I have been debating for the Odyssey cloth seats with side airbag and RES for a while. Unfortunately it doesn't have the cloth seat and RES combination, which I don't understand why......!

sixtn39 · Mar 24, 2002

Definitely LEATHER. I have had both. Cloth in a '00 and leather in current '02. Leather is more comfortable, more supportive, more appealing in appearance, will give more trade-in value ...and defintely has a MORE fragrant aroma. Cows are cool!

Heaters obviously make the seats more comfortable in cold weather. Warming effect is noticeable soon after switch is turned on. Even if warmers are not turned on seats soon become comfortable ( well, with my big butt they do).

Maugham · Mar 24, 2002

OHARE said:
WHICH SEATS ARE MORE COMFORTABLE CLOTH OR LEATHER??
ALSO WHAT ABOUT IN THE WINTER, DOES THE LEATHER SEATS GET HARD?? (I KNOW THEY HAVE A WARMER, BUT IN CASE IT FAILS, I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ANYWAY.)

OHARE,

I'm guessing that you are located pretty close to me here near O'Hare International, so we probably share a climate.

I really like the Ody's leather. It is much better than the leather on the Lincoln Town Car the Ody replaced.

The Ody leather has not been hard at all this winter, even on the coldest days. Too, the heated seats are wonderful. We are very glad we have them

Regards,

Maugham

02EXLODY · Mar 24, 2002

Leather all the way. Smell's funny?

Man, I open the door of my Ody and I love that big smell of leather I get everytime. The cloth wears out with use. Cloth soaks up spills, etc... Burns my butt?

I live in So Cal where the sun shines quite a bit and I don't have that problem. Oh well, hope that helps.

OHARE · Mar 24, 2002

Thanks!

Thanks to everyone who replied. I think I will go with the leather seats. .

Yes, I'm by O'Hare Airport.

Maugham · Mar 24, 2002

Re: Thanks!

OHARE said:
Thanks to everyone who replied. I think I will go with the leather seats. .

Yes, I'm by O'Hare Airport.

We're a few miles from O'Hare (and that darn new Krispy Kreme

, too).

Did you pick a dealer? Here's a thread on Chicagoland dealers: http://www.odyclub.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2832

Regards,

Maugham

OHARE · Mar 24, 2002

dealer

We will probably go with Castle Honda at Morton Grove. Now, the decision is the 2002 or 2003??

I know where the Krispy Kream is. If the wind is right you can count the rivets on the aircraft as they fly overhead, and do a Wayne's World thing on the hood of the car. (Well not on the ODY!)

I like your polka pictures in the other sections of this forum.

Ken W · Mar 24, 2002

One more vote for leather. My '02 is my first vehicle with leather. I didn't give a rip about looking fancier or impressing anyone. My concerns were spills and comfort. Some GM and Ford leather cracks and splits very early and looks like hell. Some other leather interiors I've seen look great after years. If you have leather, make sure you maintain it with LEXOL.

The leather seats are easier to get in and out of, especially when swinging around to move to the back seat. I love the heaters on cold days. My brother was test driving my Ody and mentioned that the leather smelled funny. That's when I pointed out that the seat heat was on High and what he was smelling was baked butt cheeks. "I thought it was getting hot in here."

The Honda leather doesn't feel as buttery soft as others, and I think thats a good thing. It feels thicker and tougher than others. Although if you tend to forget that bic pen in your back pocket, go with cloth.

There have been several other threads on this issue, use the search feature.

Remington · Mar 24, 2002

Leather smells funny??? Yes, kind of like how a Porsche drives funny.

Definitely get the leather if you can afford it. Anyone who tells you that "leather is cold in winter and hot in summer" probably hasn't driven a leather-interior car in a while, ie. since the invention of air-conditioning and heated seats.

02EXLODY · Mar 24, 2002

Remington said:
Leather smells funny??? Yes, kind of like how a Porsche drives funny.

Definitely get the leather if you can afford it. Anyone who tells you that "leather is cold in winter and hot in summer" probably hasn't driven a leather-interior car in a while, ie. since the invention of air-conditioning and heated seats.

Leather smells funny??? Yes, kind of like how a Porsche drives funny.

That's funny Remington.

Maugham · Mar 24, 2002

Leather seats mean NO STATIC!

<center>

</center>

Coleman_lot · Mar 24, 2002

I have a 97 Cadillac with leather/heated seats and my 94 RX7 have leather seats. I din't like any of them. Here in Arizona....summer is just way too hot for any leather material and it crack up after a few years. All the peopl I know with leather seats, they use towel in summer. I am careless about the heated seat...it never get cold here. My Cadi heated seat never been use.....! Actually my wife bought the Cadi. After I sold the 94 RX7 and got the 2001 EX Ody. last year, she dumped the Cadi. on me. She doesn't want the leather no more. I got rid of my 94 RX7 due to the leather seats, but I love the little sport car very much. I had a lot of fun with it on freeway. I am in the process of getting rid the Cadi. It is on autotrader.com. It is nice granite green with biege leather and all the luxury accessories in it. I'm glad all you like the leather....I never like it at all! After a couple years of usage....leather turn nasty. I also replaced all my house leather furnitures with all the cloth furnitures now. I love my cloth furnitures. I wouldn't sweat myself to death when sleep or seat on it....especially when the room is a little warm. Enjoy it while you can!

TrickedOdyssey · Mar 24, 2002

I HATE leather! might look decent, but cold in the winter and hot in the summer!

Nothing compares to the comfort of a nice cloth seat for a long drive!

Leather belongs on ONLY 1 thing! My feet!

Aardvaark · Mar 24, 2002

My '02 Ody is my first car with leather and so far I love it. The leather is a bit colder at first here in the upper Midwest until the seat heaters kick in. Although I've driven several leather cars in the past, I haven't lived with them. So until we get into the summer heat, I've only seen one side of the story first hand. I love the absents of static shock that I still get from my '96 Maxima with cloth.

Does anyone else remember the clear vinyl Fingerhut seat covers? I ordered them and had them installed on my new 1973 Opel Manta Luxus with cloth seats and were they ever cold/hot. No breathing at all, but sure protected the seats for the next owner. Ha!

-Mark

Garbat · Mar 24, 2002

Leather is definately the way to go... While the Odyssey is still to arrive, we have had it on the Accord for 5 years now... through the heat and the cold that the beautiful Canadian climate provides.

In the summer I find it better than the black cloth seats on my Prelude. In the winter all seats are cold when you get in, but the heaters work magic in a few short seconds.

As far as wear, like I said its been 5 years with one and now 2 kids and the leather looks brand new (and this is tan leather not a dark leather). Clean and condition once in a while and it will last forever.... more or less!!

Cheers... Gary

Guest · Mar 24, 2002

I have aftermarket leather and they are not hot in the summer nor are they cold in the winter, at least not in Houston Texas. I love the way it cleans up. With cloth I dont' ever believe it gets really cleaned, do you vaccume your clothes to clean them?

Coleman_lot · Mar 24, 2002

Well as far as I know, everyone with leather having a tough time keep it clean. My relative own 2001 MVP with leather and the other relative own a 2001 Acura MDX. Their leather look very nasty. When it get dirty, it is not easy to get off at all. The only think that is easy to wipe off from leather is water spile. They end up wrap all kind of towel on their leather seat. They all want to get rid of it when they see my 2001 Odi. cloth seats with the same year as their van and suv stay very clean after 1 year of usage. We have a 2 years old girl and my wife babysit all kind of kids from neighborhood and friend kids. Oh well, if you like leather seat go for it. I only use leather for my feet as TrickOdyssey mention. The shoe have all kind of ventilation holes in it and I don't care if it get dirty. I hope Honda rethink and make cloth seat with RES.

htown · Mar 24, 2002

For all the leather challenged people out there...

"Facts About Leather
Leather has a sensuous lure about it. It's synonymous with luxury, class and culture, yet leather is a durable and practical covering that outlives fabric upholstery 4 to 1. The softness of leather available today is far superior to products of just a few years ago.

Leather is the strongest upholstery material known to man. It will not readily burn or melt, and unlike most fabric or vinyl, it's extremely difficult to puncture. Unlike imitation leathers, genuine leather will not become hot or sticky in summer, nor cold and clammy in winter. Because leather is a natural material, it breathes, making it comfortable year round.

Easy Leather Care
Because leather is a natural product, it needs little or no care during normal use. However, in the event that you have a spot or spill, the following cleaning hints should help.

Stain Removal Tips for...

Spots and Spills: Blot excess liquid immediately with a clean absorbent cloth or sponge. If necessary, use clear, lukewarm water and gently wipe the spill. Dry with a clean towel and allow to air dry.

Stubborn Spots and Stains: Use a mild solution of Ivory soap and clear, lukewarm water. Apply the soap to a clean, wet sponge, then rinse well and let air dry naturally. Always try the cleaning method in a hidden area first to be sure it's colorfast.

Butter, Oil, or Grease: Wipe excess butter, oil, or grease off the leather with a clean, dry cloth, then leave it alone as the spot should dissipate into the leather in a short period of time. Do not apply water to try to wash a butter, oil, or grease stain.

Never Use...
Saddle soap, abrasive cleanser, soap, furniture polish oil, varnish, or ammonia water. The leather has already been permanently preserved in the tanning process and needs no maintenance other than the simple cleaning recommended.

Most liquids will be initially repelled by the leather, but if left to stand over an extended period of time, they will be absorbed. This is why it's a good idea to wipe up spills immediately. If the spill is absorbed, it will dissipate over time, just as human skin will absorb and eventually diffuse stains.

NOTE: The preceding remedies are in accordance with general cleaning industry procedures. We cannot guarantee favorable results, and we assume no liability in connection with their use."

Coleman_lot · Mar 24, 2002

I have the fact about being hot right here in 120 degrees Arizona sun. Everytime I got in my genuine Cadi leather seat after my grocery shoping, it melt my butt all the time. My Odyssey cloth seats have no problem with summer heat here. I am very comfortable with it. I also have the fact on my relative 2001 MPV genuine leather seat. I see all kind of scratches and dirty spot on their leather seat after one year of usage and they only have one 12 years old son. They said they tried to remove the stain and scratches according to what the dealer told them, but some spot he end ruined the leather for cleaning the leather too hard. I want to see if someone can clean my cousin genuine leather sofa. He want to get rid of it, but no one want to buy it. I'm glad I got rid all of my leather sofas a few months back. All of my cloth sofas still look wonderful after a few years of usage with all kind of kids in the house. If the leather is so luxury, durable and so easy to clean; why wouldn't they replace carpet with leather material on the house floor? It probably smell nasty if they use leather as a floor. In my view, cloth is always the best for years and still is.....! It is just a leather company tactic to sale their leather products by allowing luxury car companies to put in their vehicles, so the leather material look expensive and customers fall into their sale tactic trap...! No more comment....I have enough of leather crab....and I wish Honda put RES with cloth seat....if you listen, please do so! Thanks.

mikendana · Mar 24, 2002

It really is a matter of opinion. We've never had leather in any of our cars so therefore don't miss it. However, we test drove the EX-L and we didn't like the leather. My parents have always had leather on their vehicles and my dad said he wouldn't get another car without. So whenever I want the feel of leather, I just hop in their Lexus and get my fix

. Good luck with your decision.

Dana

02EXLODY · Mar 24, 2002

Whatever!

Aardvaark · Mar 24, 2002

Also keep in mind that older leather items like furniture, jackets, collector car seats etc. are often referred to as having gained a wonderful old patina. Whereas older cloth items of the same type are said to be worn and soiled.
I don't expect my leather seats to remain new looking forever even with care, but I'll take "patina" over worn and soiled anyday.

Coleman_lot · Mar 25, 2002

Geez....why didn't they make mattress from leather, why didn't they make mattress sheet from leather and why didn't they make our nation armforce clothes with leather material since it so durable, comfortable and last very long time? Why do most of the most expensive furnitures, clothes, curtain, etc. are not made out of leather? Obviousely, it isn't durable, comfortable, attractive, etc. overall......!

Here are some quotes from the leather seat car owners:

Quote1: My 96 Ltd runner has leather, and it's kinda a love/hate thing. I love the leather in winter, as it feels warm in our mild AZ winters and it sheds water mud & child barf quite well. In the summer, the sheepskin covers go on to prevent skin loss. You must also service it a few time a year to clean and renew it. Heat & sunlight dries up leather, and moisture (water/snow/mud) is suppose to be a problem for the stitches. Seems like a luxury that you end up paying for.

Quote2: I didn't opt for the leather myself, I've had leather seats on previous cars and where my back rubs from getting in and out would wear out (didn't look nice when worn). Very pronounced on black leather (95 z28).
A friend of mine as a 97 with oak leather (he drives alot), his driver seat looks worn out compared to the other seats. My Mom's Volvo has leather but now is covered with sheepskin. Our 94 Quest has cloth seats and looks much better than my parents Volvo (w/o the sheepskin). I think the cost of the leather option is comparable to the other manufacturers but don't quote me on that.
I sway towards cloth myself (I've owned 9 previous vehicles, with 5 of them having leather seats. IMHO, the cloth interiors looked much better after wear and tear, but the leather interior looks much nicer when new. If I were to buy the vehicle for display and not use it, I'd choose the leather.)
But since you're the one who's going be in the vehicle you should get what makes you feel comfortable.

moose · Mar 25, 2002

Re: For all the leather challenged people out there...

htown said:
"Facts About Leather....Unlike imitation leathers, genuine leather will not become hot or sticky in summer, nor cold and clammy in winter. Because leather is a natural material, it breathes, making it comfortable year round....

I don't at all agree with that statement. I am an upholsterer and work with leather. Not all leather is the same, it depends on how it is processed, if it is drum dyed though and through (the better processing) or just painted on the surface and if that is the case then leather can have the same feel or characteristics as vinyl because that kind of dying seals the leather and makes it harder to breath. There is much more to the processing of leather than to put it all in the same catagory. I have no idea what type of leather Honda uses. I do trust Honda to not cut down to the lowest grade of leather, but I also doubt they use the best grade. I ordered my Odyssey over a month ago and I want leather. I have a 1988 Acura Legend with 120,000 miles and that leather held up very nicely.

Guest · Mar 25, 2002

Coleman, great for you if you don't want leather because you have bad experiences, but don't make it sound like you are the last word on it. Many many others have had good experience with leather or else no one would be buying leather today. As for beds and floors not being made of leather, come on, have you bought a leather jacket lately? Its cost prohibitive to use them in that way, but guess what, they do make leather couches and leather chairs and have for a long long time. Do you think they did that because they wanted to make more money.

I've had my Ody for 2.5 years and can tell you its held up great considering I have 2 kids and a big dog that ride in it. Is it perfect, no, but it doesn't have any tears or holes either.

So thanks for your opinion on leather but that's all it is.

Leather Or Cloth Seats??

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities