What Are the Different Types of Leather and Which One Is Best for Jackets?

We have been using Leather for clothing for thousands of years, to say at least for 7,000 years. That is to say, our ancestors in caves used animal hides for clothing. Then, in 5,000 BC, the treated leather items began to emerge.

Now, we have come to a time when leather is not only a necessity for warmth and protection. It is a must-have wardrobe essential to make a statement. In other words, if you value class and practicality in fashion, then leather items are your thing.

So, you will learn different types of leather in this blog. This will also guide you on which leather is best for jackets.

Read along!

What are the types of leather?

There are many different leather hides. Hence, each leather holds its quality and uniqueness. So, that’s how skilled craftsmen design various types of leather jackets.

Cowhide Leather

It is strong and durable leather that is resistant to wear and tear. Many leather companies use this leather to craft durable men’s items such as:

• Leather jackets
• Shoes
• Belts
• Wallets
• Luggage

Thus, it is best for crafting heavier jackets and motorcycle jackets.

Sheepskin Leather:

This type of leather is popular for its softness, lightweight, and warmth. It’s a good choice of Leather jacket material if you want flexibility and comfort. Hence, it is softer and suppler than cowhide.

Sheepskin is popular for its lightweight, breathable, and a bit warmer feel. It is perfect for layered clothing. Craftsmen use this versatile material to craft various products, such as women’s:

• Leather jackets
• Coats
• Gloves
• Wallets
• Bags

Thus, sheepskin leather is best suited for soft, lightweight leather jackets. It works best in mild weather or for those who prefer a more fashionable look. So, if you want a velvety feel and flexibility, it is a great choice for you.

Goat skin Leather

This type of leather offers a good balance of durability and flexibility. It is known for its softness, flexibility, and distinctive pebbled texture. Hence, it is used in a wide range of products that include:

• Clothing
• Footwear
• Bags
• Gloves
• Bookbinding

Moreover, this leather is essential for crafting biker and bomber leather jackets.

Lambskin Leather

Lambskin leather jackets are popular for their softness, lightweight feel, and luxurious texture. Hence, this type of leather offers a luxury look and feel. It is best for crafting jackets and handbags.

Lambskin is the Best leather for jackets of various styles. Hence, popular styles include:

• Bomber leather jackets
• Hooded leather jackets
• Biker leather jackets

Thus, these leather jackets feature a sleek and smooth finish. However, it’s not as durable as other leathers. You have to take proper care so the lambskin can last for a long time.

Synthetic Leather

This type of leather is also known as faux leather. Unlike other leathers, it is made from synthetic components rather than animal hides. Hence, it is a material designed to mimic the appearance and feel of genuine leather. Thus, it is a good alternative due to its affordability, durability, and ethicality.

What are the Grades of Leather:

So, you know what types of leather are, what is natural, and which is synthetic. Now it is time to understand the leather grades. Through this, you can determine the quality of the hide and the manufacturing process.

The grade of leather reflects appearance, durability, and its feel. Hence, here are the grades of leather, from highest to lowest:

Full Grain Leather:

This is the highest quality leather, retaining the entire grain layer of the hide. Hence, it is without any sanding or buffing process. So, it is durable, ages well, and develops a unique patina over time.

Top Grain Leather:

This is also a high-quality leather. But, it is not as strong or breathable as full-grain leather. To remove imperfections on the top layer of the hide, it goes through sanding or buffing. Hence, it offers a more uniform appearance.

Genuine Leather:

Craftsmen craft this grade of leather from the leftover layers of hide after crafting top-grain. In other words, this leather comes from the split layer of the hide. It is less expensive and less durable than full-grain or top-grain.

Bonded Leather:

Craftsmen use leather scraps and fibers, bonded together with adhesive, to make this leather. It’s the lowest quality and least durable option.

Thus, grades, from best to worst, are full-grain, top-grain, genuine, and bonded leather.

Which leather is the Best Leather for Jackets?

So, comes a time to address the main point of this Leather jacket buying guide. You are wondering which to choose, genuine leather vs faux leather, which is best for your jacket? Consider:

• Want a durable and rugged look: Cowhide or goatskin leather jacket
• To get a sleek, elegant style, go for a Lambskin leather jacket
• For a unique look and feel: Faux leather jacket
• If you prefer high quality and longevity, choose a full-grain or top-grain leather jacket.

Conclusion

So, you understand different types of leather and which leather is best for jackets.