Materials Guide
Not sure which material is right for you? Here's everything you need to know about each option — from track performance to daily luxury.
Quick Comparison
| Material | Grip | Durability | Luxury | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alcantara | from £89 | |||
| Smooth Nappa Leather | from £64 | |||
| Perforated Leather | from £74 | |||
| Motorsport Carbon Grip | from £299 |
Alcantara
The Material of Champions
Alcantara is a premium Italian synthetic microfibre — the same material used by Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche in their factory interiors. It offers an exceptional combination of grip, tactile feel, and visual drama that genuine leather simply cannot match at speed.
Origin
Developed in the 1970s as a collaboration between Toray Industries (Japan) and ENI (Italy), Alcantara is now the benchmark for performance car interiors worldwide.
Properties
Performance Scores
Best For
Track days & spirited driving
Sport interiors (M Sport, AMG, RS line)
Tri-colour and M-stitch builds
Anyone who sweats through gloves
Care Instructions
Use a soft-bristle brush to lift the pile after every few drives — this prevents matting.
For light soiling, use a damp microfibre cloth with a small amount of mild soap.
Never use silicone sprays, wax, or solvent-based cleaners — these collapse the microfibre.
Allow to air-dry naturally; avoid heat sources like hairdryers.
For stubborn marks, a dedicated Alcantara cleaner (e.g. Colourlock) works best.
Considerations
Can absorb oils from skin over time — clean regularly
Not ideal for convertibles with exposed interiors
Smooth Nappa Leather
Old-World Craftsmanship, Modern Precision
Nappa leather is the gold standard for luxury automotive interiors. Full-grain, soft-tanned, and hand-finished, it develops a rich patina over time that tells the story of every mile.
Origin
Nappa (from Napa, California) refers to a specific tanning process that produces an exceptionally soft, supple hide. Used by Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Mercedes S-Class as standard.
Properties
Performance Scores
Best For
Luxury GT cars (911, Continental, SL)
Daily drivers wanting a premium cabin feel
Black or two-tone classic builds
Drivers who use gloves regularly
Care Instructions
Wipe down with a clean, slightly damp cloth after each use to remove hand oils and sweat.
Apply a quality leather conditioner (e.g. Leather Honey or Colourlock) every 3–6 months.
Avoid prolonged direct sunlight — use a steering wheel cover or window shade when parked.
Never use household cleaning products, baby wipes, or anything containing alcohol.
For deep cleaning, use a pH-neutral leather cleaner and follow with conditioner.
Considerations
More maintenance than synthetic options
Can be slippery without gloves at high steering inputs
Perforated Leather
Sport Leather with Track-Day Ventilation
Perforated leather takes the elegance of Nappa and adds precision laser-drilled holes for superior airflow and grip. Used extensively by BMW M Division, Audi Sport, and Mercedes-AMG.
Origin
Used extensively by BMW M Division, Audi Sport, and Mercedes-AMG, perforated leather is the OEM choice for performance variants of premium models.
Properties
Performance Scores
Best For
Warm climates and summer daily driving
M Sport, AMG, RS model owners
Drivers wanting leather look with improved grip
Two-tone contrast stitch builds
Care Instructions
Wipe regularly with a damp microfibre cloth — perforations can collect fine dust over time.
Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear debris from the perforations every few weeks.
Apply a leather conditioner sparingly — avoid excess product entering the holes.
Like Nappa, avoid alcohol, solvent cleaners, and harsh chemical wipes.
A light vacuum with a brush attachment is safe and effective for routine maintenance.
Considerations
Slightly less grip than Alcantara at extremes
Perforations can trap fine debris — occasional vacuum recommended
Motorsport Carbon Grip
Competition-Grade Performance Engineering
Motorsport Carbon Grip combines technical Alcantara with integrated carbon fiber composites. Engineered for maximum tactile feedback and gloves-on control in demanding driving environments.
Origin
Developed in collaboration with professional motorsport drivers and engineers, Motorsport Carbon Grip represents the pinnacle of grip-focused steering wheel technology for serious enthusiasts.
Properties
Performance Scores
Best For
Circuit racing and track days
Professional and semi-professional drivers
Cars with competition-grade interiors
Drivers demanding ultimate tactile control
Care Instructions
Brush the Alcantara sections with a soft-bristle brush after circuit use to remove rubber and debris.
Wipe carbon fiber panels with a dry or slightly damp microfibre cloth — no liquids on carbon.
Do not apply any wax, polish, or silicone products to the carbon sections.
Store in a breathable cover when not in use to prevent dust ingress into the weave.
Inspect stitching after track sessions — contact Velox for any re-stitching under warranty.
Considerations
Premium pricing reflects competition-grade engineering
Aesthetic may be too aggressive for daily-use luxury builds
Bucket Seat Heritage Fabrics
Legendary Porsche interior textiles — Pepita, Tartan, Pasha and more — reissued in original quality, tested to the highest Porsche standards. Used in Velox Stitched seat re-trims as center panel inserts (Zones 2 & 4).
Pepita Black/White
The Pattern That Defined a Generation
The black and white Pepita upholstery fabric blends perfectly into the interior of classic Porsche models thanks to its faithful reproduction of the original pattern and colour scheme. Originally introduced in the 356C and later becoming the hallmark of the 911, this fabric combines sporty dynamism with timeless elegance.
Heritage Origin
Originally featured in the Porsche 356C and 911 from the 1960s onwards, the Pepita pattern has become one of the most iconic fabric designs in automotive history. Now reissued in original quality, tested to the highest Porsche standards.
Fabric Properties
Compatible Porsche Models
Porsche 356C
Porsche 911 (all generations to 964)
Classic restoration projects
Period-correct 911 S, T, E, Carrera RS
Application Notes
Used as center panel inserts combined with Nappa or Alcantara bolsters
Ideal for Zones 2 & 4 (upper and lower seat centers)
Blends seamlessly even when replacing individual seat panels
Pepita Red/Black/White
Dynamic Colour, Timeless Pattern
The Pepita upholstery fabric in red, black and white blends perfectly into the interior of classic Porsche models. As the popularity of the black/white Pepita grew in the 911, the dynamic combination of red, black and white was added — giving the interior a characteristic yet understated elegance.
Heritage Origin
Originally introduced in the Porsche 356C in the white/black variant, the red colourway was later added for the 911 to create a more dramatic interior statement. A pattern that epitomises the Porsche tradition and has written design history.
Fabric Properties
Compatible Porsche Models
Porsche 911 (classic air-cooled)
911 Carrera & Turbo
Period-correct sport interior builds
Matching door card applications
Application Notes
Most visually dramatic of the Pepita variants
Pairs perfectly with Guards Red or Blood Orange exterior colours
Ideal for Zones 2 & 4 (upper and lower seat centers)
Tartan "Black Watch"
Born at the 1973 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show
The green and blue tartan upholstery fabric blends perfectly into the interior of classic Porsche models. The tartan pattern debuted at the IAA Frankfurt in 1973 in the 911 RSR Turbo — inspired by a pair of tartan trousers worn by Anatole Lapine, then head designer at Porsche.
Heritage Origin
The 'Black Watch' tartan (named after the famous Scottish Highland regiment) was one of three tartans initially offered exclusively for the 911 Turbo. In 1976 it found a permanent place in the 911 equipment catalogue. Reissued in exact original quality.
Fabric Properties
Tartan "McLaughlan"
Ferry Porsche's Personal Choice
The red and blue tartan upholstery fabric blends perfectly into the interior of classic Porsche models. Ferry Porsche gifted his sister Louise Piëch the very first 911 Turbo — its interior almost completely lined with the red and blue 'McLaughlan' tartan combined with brick-red leather seats.
Heritage Origin
One of the three original Porsche tartans introduced exclusively for the 911 Turbo in the 1970s. Named after the McLaughlan clan tartan, it became a hallmark of Porsche's high-performance models and entered the full 911 catalogue in 1976.
Fabric Properties
Porsche Logo Fabric (Black)
The Comfort Fabric of the 911 G-Model Era
The black upholstery fabric featuring the 'PORSCHE' logo blends seamlessly into the interior of classic Porsche models. At a time when leather was increasingly finding its way into vehicle interiors and air conditioning was not yet standard, the fabric offered a high level of comfort in summer temperatures.
Heritage Origin
Mainly used in the 911 G-model (1985–1987) and 928 (1985–1987), this fabric was standard issue during a transitional era for Porsche interiors. Now reissued with exact original pattern, colour and feel.
Fabric Properties
'964 Multicolour Cobalt Blue
The Last of the Colourful Classics
The cobalt blue Multicolour upholstery fabric blends seamlessly into the interior of classic Porsche models. As a further development of the popular tartan pattern, it was one of the last colourful fabrics before all-leather upholstery became standard at the end of the 1990s.
Heritage Origin
Particularly popular in the 964 models (1991–1994), but also used in the 928 (1991–1993), 944 (1991) and 968 (1992–1993). Reissued in exact original patterns and colour combinations for authentic restoration.
Fabric Properties
Compatible Porsche Models
Porsche 911 (964) 1991–1994
Porsche 928 (1991–1993)
Porsche 944 (1991)
Porsche 968 (1992–1993)
Application Notes
Captures the iconic late-80s / early-90s Porsche interior aesthetic
Pairs well with dark blue or black Nappa bolsters
Ideal for Zones 2 & 4 (upper and lower seat centers)
Pascha Fabric
A Waving Chequered Flag in Fabric Form
The black and white Pascha upholstery fabric brings one of the most eye-catching designs in automotive interior history. Designed under Anatole Lapine in the 1970s, the pattern symbolises a waving chequered flag — a symbol of victory and speed — with a velvety feel reminiscent of fine Ottoman silk cushions.
Heritage Origin
Born in the creative studio of Anatole Lapine at Porsche in the 1970s, the Pasha pattern's name reflects its velvety, luxurious feel. Now reissued in exact historical pattern and colour — with a feel true to the original and exceptional durability.
Fabric Properties
Compatible Porsche Models
Porsche 911 (classic air-cooled)
Period motorsport tribute builds
911 S, Carrera, Targa variants
Application Notes
Most visually dramatic heritage fabric — makes a bold statement
Best paired with black Alcantara or Nappa bolsters
Ideal for Zones 2 & 4 (upper and lower seat centers)
Porsche Lettering (Olive Green)
The Rarest Porsche Interior Fabric Reissued
The olive green 'PORSCHE lettering' upholstery fabric blends perfectly into the interior of classic Porsche models. Characterising numerous Porsche models from the 1980s onwards, it offered high comfort in summer temperatures — and the olive green colourway is among the rarest and most collectible of all Porsche interior fabrics.
Heritage Origin
Mainly used in the 911 G model (1985–1987) and 928 (1985–1987), the PORSCHE lettering fabric came in several colourways of which olive green is the most sought-after for period-correct restorations. Pattern, colour and feel are exactly true to the historic original.
Fabric Properties
Compatible Porsche Models
Porsche 911 G-model (1985–1987)
Porsche 928 (1985–1987)
Olive Green exterior matching builds
Application Notes
Rarest colourway — pairs exceptionally with Olive Green or Slate Grey Nappa bolsters
Highly collectible for concours-level restoration projects
Ideal for Zones 2 & 4 (upper and lower seat centers)
Seat Panel Heritage Fabrics
Authentic OEM-replica seat fabrics for BMW M-series, Alpina and VW GTI restorations. Jacquard-woven or knitted interlock — never printed. Foam-backed and ready to fit as seat centre panel inserts.
BMW M Rain
Blue / Red / Purple + Grey
The Diagonal Stripe That Defined the M Division
The BMW M Rain diagonal stripe weave is the definitive M-series interior fabric — fitted as standard across the E21, E28, E30 and E34 M-series from the late 1970s through to the mid-1990s. Available in two colourways: the classic Blue/Red/Purple and the understated Grey.
Heritage Origin
Originally developed for BMW's M Division performance vehicles, the M Rain fabric features a distinctive diagonal woven stripe in the M motorsport colours. Foam-backed and pre-laminated, it's one of the most sought-after period-correct seat fabrics in the classic car restoration market.
Available Colourways
Blue / Red / Purple — the iconic M motorsport colourway
Grey — understated & pairs perfectly with black Nappa bolsters
Fabric Properties
BMW M-Tech
Purple Multi-Stripe
The Multi-Stripe Fabric of the Original M3
BMW M-Tech Purple is the OEM-replica woven multi-stripe pattern fitted to the E30 M3 and E36 M3 as standard equipment. Pre-laminated onto scrim foam backing, it's one of the rarest and most desirable period-correct fabrics in the BMW restoration world.
Heritage Origin
Used specifically in E30 M3 and early E36 M3 models, the M-Tech purple multi-stripe is distinct from the M Rain pattern — it features a denser, more complex diagonal stripe in a vivid purple colourway that has made it a collector's favourite.
Available Colourways
Purple — the only colourway for M-Tech spec
Fabric Properties
BMW Alpina
Blue / Green Vertical Stripe
The Alpina Vertical Stripe — Rarest of the BMW Heritage Fabrics
The Alpina vertical stripe fabric is the authentic interior material used in genuine Alpina B-series vehicles across the E21, E30 and E36 generations. Knitted cotton interlock (not printed), with 5mm foam backing — the most substantial and premium of all the BMW heritage seat fabrics.
Heritage Origin
Unique to genuine Alpina variants of BMW models, this distinctive vertical stripe in Alpina blue/green on black has become one of the most sought-after fabrics for period-correct restorations. At 155cm wide, a single metre provides seamless coverage of both front seat centres.
Available Colourways
Blue / Green on Black — the only authentic Alpina colourway
Fabric Properties
GTI / Porsche Plaid
Red & GTI Blue Tartan
The Tartan That Started the Hot Hatch Revolution
GTI Plaid tartan is arguably the most iconic seat fabric in automotive history — the red and blue tartan first fitted to the VW Golf GTI MK1 in 1974. Also used in Porsche 911 'Special Wishes' builds, it crosses the boundary between hot hatch heritage and Porsche motorsport culture.
Heritage Origin
Introduced with the original Golf GTI in 1974, the tartan plaid insert became the defining visual signature of the hot hatch. The exact same pattern was also used by Porsche in Special Wishes 911 and 930 Turbo builds — creating an unlikely but well-documented crossover between VW and Porsche interior history.
Available Colourways
Red — the original and most period-correct colourway
GTI Blue — the most popular colourway for restorations
Fabric Properties
Material Comparison
Quick reference to compare the three most popular materials side-by-side.
| Feature | Nappa Leather | Alcantara | Houndstooth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Benefit | Luxury & Durability | Maximum Grip | Heritage Aesthetic |
| Tactile Feel | Smooth & Supple | Suede-like / High Friction | Textured Fabric Weave |
| Best For... | Daily Driving | Track & Performance | Classic Restorations |
| Maintenance | Easy (Wipe Clean) | Requires Brushing | Standard Fabric Care |
| Heat Control | Retains Warmth | Stays Cool | Breathable Weave |
Design Your Seat Combination
Select your preferred material and leather color to see a real preview of your custom seats.
Feel the Fabric
Experience our premium materials firsthand. Order the Velox Curated Sample Pack and discover which material speaks to your driving style.
Velox Curated Sample Pack
£15
Free postage included
Everything you need to choose the perfect material. Touch, feel, and experience the difference between Alcantara, Nappa, and our heritage weaves before committing to your full build.
Pack Contents
- •1× Nappa Leather swatch (8cm × 8cm)
- •1× Alcantara swatch (8cm × 8cm)
- •1× Pepita Heritage swatch (8cm × 8cm)
- •50cm Velox Blue contrast thread spool
We'll add you to our Hot Lead automation and notify Lloyd to prepare your samples.
£15 refundable on your first 'Full Cockpit' order. Not just a deposit—we'll credit your full sample pack cost toward any custom build over £500.
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