Abstract

The global leather market is making a transition from subjective evaluations of aesthetic appeal to quantitative material performance with data. This study provides a systematic analysis of the mechanical integrity of garment leathers and biomechanical compatibility with garment functioning through a direct relationship between histological collagen structure and functional behaviour. The study first identifies key mechanical metrics that are important for promoting structural durability in garment leather including tensile strength, tear resistance and elongation and examines how the orientation of bovine and ovine skin fibres dictate these mechanical parameters. In addition to assessing structural durability, biomechanics compatibility is assessed by analyzing the micro-interface between leather and human skin. The biofunctional properties are reviewed relative to thermophysiological variables like water vapour permeability, flexural rigidity and surface friction that define tactile hand. Part of this study explores the integration of Industry 4.0 with automated in-line monitoring. We evaluate the effectiveness of non-destructive evaluation tools for in-line structural defect detection and finish defect detection using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and AI-driven computer vision (artificial intelligence) tool sets. Lastly, examining the effect of sustainable tanning chemistries on long-term aging and hydrothermal stability. By synthesizing material science with industrial automation, this study offers a comprehensive framework for optimizing leather selection and ensuring structural homogeneity in high-performance apparel design.