It's not just usage that wears things out. The environment plays a roll. My hubby had a pair of shoes he never wore for a couple of years and they had deteriorated just sitting in the closet. For me it wouldn't be a concern, if it does crack etc. I would recover them.

I agree with Angel. But depending on the type of material it may take a while before it starts deteriorating. Leatherette has some advantages: A lot less expensive than leather and spills are easy to clean. The world of synthetic leather has come a long way with very attractive options.