Your Guide to the Best Used in Jackets Jackets made of leather have stood up to the years. They’ve changed from basic military items to fashionable essentials. When it comes to selecting the best leather jacket the majority of shoppers ignore one important aspect: the type of leather. This is the single aspect that affects everything from appearance and feel, to durability and price.
What are the best kinds of leather jackets made from? This guide will cover each type in detail. If you’re purchasing your first leather jacket or expanding your collection, understanding the leather kinds can help you make an informed decision.
Table of contents
- Why Leather Type Is So Important
- Cowhide: Durable and Rugged
- Key Features:
- Lambskin: Ultra-Soft and Elegant
- Goatskin: Flexible and Practical
- Sheepskin: Built-In Warmth
- Deerskin: Soft Strength
- Key Features:
- Horsehide: Vintage and Hardcore
- Kangaroo Leather: Light Yet Strong
- Suede and Nubuck: Stylish Finishes
- Which Leather Should You Choose?
- Leather Jacket Care Tips
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Leather Type Is So Important
All leather is not created to be the same. The animal origin, grain finishing, the finish, and the tanning technique all influence:
Durability
Comfort
Texture
Flexibility
Weight
Weather resistance
Furthermore, choosing the wrong type of leather suitable for your needs can cause premature wear and discomfort or cost-saving. This guide can aid you in avoiding this.
Cowhide: Durable and Rugged
Cowhide is the most frequently utilized leather used for jackets. It’s tough, dense and incredibly tough.

Key Features:
Resistance against wear and tear
Waterproof and windproof
The break-up occurs over time Softens as you use
A little heavier than the other options.
Best For
Jackets for bikers, outdoors wear casual clothing for everyday use
Although cowhide can appear stiff at first but it will adjust to your body as time passes. It’s therefore ideal for those looking to make it a permanent essential for their wardrobe.
Lambskin: Ultra-Soft and Elegant
Lambskin is soft, smooth and luxurious. It is softer than cowhide, and it feels like butter.

Key Features:
Extremely flexible and soft
Lightweight and airy
Very fine grain
Requires delicate care
Best For
High-end fashion-forward clothes, casual clothes evening jackets
But, lambskin scratches and scratches more easily. However, it’s still favored due to its high-end feel and luxurious style.
Goatskin: Flexible and Practical
Goatskin is a great combination of softness and strength. It is natural grain and the mineral lanolin which makes it more resistant to water than other leathers.

Key Features:
Key Features: Pebbled texture
It is lightweight and durable.
Naturally soft and flexible
Weather-resistant
Best For
Best For: Military-style jackets, casual everyday wear
Furthermore, it age well and requires less care compared to lambskin.
Sheepskin: Built-In Warmth
In contrast to lambskin, sheepskin is the name given to a type of leather that is able to keep the fleece. That makes it the ideal material to use for insulation.
Key Features:
Leather with a thick outer layer
Soft wool interior
Warm and cozy
More hefty than other types
Best For
Shearling jackets for cold weather, winter wear
Though it’s heavier, sheepskin offers unparalleled warmth and comfort and is practical and stylish.
Deerskin: Soft Strength
Deerskin has a pleasant hand-feel with exceptional durability. It’s breathable, flexible and is able to adapt to your movement.

Key Features:
Naturally elastic
Weatherproof and tough
Grainy texture
Breathable and all-season-friendly
Best For
All-weather wearers, rugged wearers long journeys
Due to its versatility It’s frequently used for the gloves, as well as outdoor equipment, in addition to jackets.
Horsehide: Vintage and Hardcore
Horsehide is more brittle and heavier than cowhide. It’s not as common, but it is very sought-after by motorcycle and vintage collectors.
Key Features:
Key Features: Extremely strong and stiff
High shine finish
Ages gracefully and slowly
Great wind protection
Best For
Motorcycle jackets, pieces from the past Bold fashion declarations
Although it takes a while to get used to but the result is a durable, gorgeous jacket.
Kangaroo Leather: Light Yet Strong
The leather of Kangaroo is known for its lightness and extremely tough. It’s actually stronger than cowhide on a weight-per-weight basis.

Key Features:
Lightweight and pliable
Super strong fibers
A minimal break-in is required
High Tensile Strength
Best For:
High-performance jackets racing gear, special wear
Because it’s expensive and rare the kangaroo leather is usually utilized in high-end designs.
Suede and Nubuck: Stylish Finishes

Instead of referring to a particular type of material, suede and nubuck are used to describe the finish.
Suede is the interior side of the hide, with the texture of velvet.
Nubuck is the grain that runs along the outside which is sanded until it reaches a similar softness, but with more durability.
Key Features
Key Features: Soft, luxurious texture
It easily absorbs water easily
Staining is more likely if not treated
Not the best choice for climates with wet conditions.
Best For
Best For: Light-use jackets, fashion pieces fashion pieces, wardrobes that emphasize style over function
Which Leather Should You Choose?
When choosing between the used in jackets, consider the following:

Climate
Climate Are you experiencing cold weather? Consider sheepskin. Are you in warmer temperatures? Go for goatskin or lambskin.

Style Preference
Style Preference Are you looking for something elegant? Lambskin or suede is a great choice. Are you looking for a rugged style? Consider using horsehide or cowhide.

Budget
Lambskin, deerskin, as well as Kangaroos are usually more expensive. Cowhide and goatskin offer excellent quality and value for money.
Usage Frequency
For frequent wear, durable leather is required. Opt for cowhide, horsehide or goatskin.
Leather Jacket Care Tips
No matter what kind of leather, proper maintenance will ensure its the longevity.
Clean with a damp cloth, but never let it soak
Apply conditioner every 3 to 6 months
The store is on large, cushioned hangers
Use plastic bags sparingly to store long-term items
Spray water-resistant to nubuck or suede
Additionally regular maintenance keeps your jacket looking good every year.
Conclusion
Your jacket speaks volumes about your personality. If you choose the right fabric it will provide the best of both worlds: function and style. Whichever you pick, whether it’s tough lambskin, soft, or deerskin that breathes every option has its own distinct advantages.
Knowing the most appropriate kinds of leather for jackets can give you an edge. Your jacket will not only last longer and last longer, but you’ll also be wearing it for longer. Be smart about your choices the leather coat will last for a lifetime.
FAQs
Cowhide and horsehide are among the most durable options available today.
Not really. Lambskin is soft and elegant but prone to damage. It’s better for occasional use.
Sheepskin is best for cold climates due to its warm fleece lining.