They claim it's 100% real leather. There's a thin outer leather sheath (I think) around what looks like a man-made material. In the worn hole of the buckle there are loose threads of what it is made of. I've had it since mid June 2019 and it's deteriorating like other similar store bought belts I've had from Columbia and similar brands for example. I have to say it has held up well so far which is why I gave it 2 stars instead of 1. What worries me is another product that claims to be something it is not. 10-8-20 I'm increasing my rating by one star because I've just taken off this belt which has completely fallen apart in the buckle holes. I still wore it with my shirts open as it served its purpose in that capacity. It couldn't be worn with tucked in shirts due to the look, but for having lasted over a year and for the price I agree.