Types of Leather Jackets: Pick a Style That Suits You The Most

Nothing beats a leather jacket when it comes to stylish and durable outerwear. Since different types of leather jackets are out there, it’s normal for an outerwear stylist to get confused. So, if you are looking for the best leather style for yourself, simply delve into the world of leather jackets, which range from military jackets and biker styles to boleros, puffers, and many others. The more you familiarize yourself with various kinds of leather jackets, the better you become at picking the right type of leather jacket for your specific occasion, body type, and persona.

From the sleek bomber jacket to the rugged trucker style, different types of leather jackets for men are available. Therefore, selecting the best leather jacket style according to your taste won’t be that tricky. Types of leather jackets for women are more versatile than those for men, as ladies have more choices of shades and styles. The classic version of bombers and bikers is merged with new styles, such as cowboy fringes, hoodies, and peplum.

And the best part is custom bomber jackets that can be tailored to fit your personal style and preferences. Whether you are looking for timeless style or some modern flair, fashion designers from various subcultures offer specific types of leather jackets for rockers, trendsetters, bikers, and western stylers. All you have to do is dig down and explore the ultimate leather jacket world.

21 Types of Leather Jackets

Bomber Leather Jackets

Bomber leather jackets have a military origin. These different types of leather jackets were designed for World War I and World War II military pilots, who wore horsehide or goatskin Leather bomber jackets to keep them warm and well-protected in unpressurized cockpits.

A classic bomber jacket typically features a waist-length cut, ribbed cuffs and hem, a rounded or shirt-style collar, and a front zipper, all contributing to a relaxed look. The classilc leather jacket design draws inspiration from MA-1 and A-2 Bomber designs.

The military bomber jacket retains its classic design while incorporating a bit of functionality, including camouflage tones, utility pockets, and weather-resistant materials. A modern touch to classic design is apparent in the form of a slim-fit bomber jacket that literally hugs the body, offering a charming urban look.

The varsity bomber jacket is quite famous among college students, as it offers a perfect streetwear look, featuring leather sleeves paired with a cotton torso. Black bomber jackets for men are quite famous due to their sleek appearance.

Oversized leather bomber jackets are the most popular type of leather jacket for women, as they offer a boxy fit and relaxed appeal, especially when layered over slim-fit outfits. Women love cropped bomber jackets as they sit above the waistline and offer instant contemporary flair to the smart figure.

When it comes to the most popular shades for bombers, brown bomber jackets get quick preference due to their vintage appeal over black. Hooded leather bomber jackets feature a highly practical design, thanks to the hoodie, and thus become one of the best leather jacket styles for colder climates.

Custom leather bomber jackets offer the freedom for both men and women to have a personalized design, fit, material, and detailing. It’s easy for you to choose from your favorite materials, such as lambskin, goatskin, suede, and full grain. And then go beyond usual black and brown and get creative with your leather jacket colour. Whether you need a slim fit, a cropped look, or an oversized style, every option is available at your fingertips. The best part of a custom bomber leather jacket is making your favorite hardware choices and selecting zippers or buttons in your preferred finishes.

Biker Leather Jackets 

A biker leather jacket is certainly one of the most iconic leather jacket styles you can find today. They are also known as motor jackets and motorcycle jackets because they are primarily designed for motorcyclists. These days, the edgy street look of a biker jacket style is made possible through snap-down lapels, zipper cuffs, asymmetrical uppers, and metal hardware.

Different types of biker jackets include shearling-lined biker jackets, cruiser jackets, belted waist biker jackets, and armored motorcycle jackets.

Classic styles feature an asymmetrical zipper, epaulettes, and belts. A cafe racer features a straight zip front and a stand-up collar, and is typically preferred by men for its minimalist look.

Cruiser jackets offer loose-fitting, and they’re one of the best styles of leather jackets for casual wear. Shearling-lined rebel biker jackets offer perfect warmth without compromising on their edgy leather look. Armored is one of the best types of motorcycle jackets as it is reinforced with CE-approved armor and provides the best riding protection.

Leather Riding jacket styles have a rebellious look attached to them, so you always find them in the collection of the best types of leather jackets for men and women. They are also famous as cool motorcycle jackets among youngsters who are ready to go against the wind.

When you are going to choose a men’s winter biker jacket, always look beyond the looks. Try to prefer cowhide or lined goat skin over other leather jacket types to get better insulation. Ensure the design of your winter leather vintage biker jacket includes functional interior pockets for added storage.

Leather Puffer Jackets

Leather puffer jackets create a stylish combination of elegant leather appeal and classic insulated warmth, featuring padded interiors and quilted stitching. These kinds of leather jackets let you stay warm without compromising your fashionable silhouette.

Padded Long leather jackets are quite popular in the coldest weather areas, while normal size seems ideal for casual street-style. It is one of those men’s leather jacket styles that never truly goes out of style.

When it comes to thermal leather jacket colours, you can find not just classic black and brown shades, but many other bold shades as well. Puffer leather jackets for women typically come in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, olive green, and neon shades.

Puffer cold weather jackets had their roots in the 1930s, where they were popular alpine wear, but leather styles of puffer jackets gained fashion moments in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Leather Peacoats

A leather peacoat is a double-breasted leather coat. Initially, wool was used to craft a peacoat in the 18th century, but later, leather was used to enhance its ruggedness in the mid-20th century. A leather coat features a buttoned front with buttoned lapels. The origin of peacoats can be traced back to naval forces, where wool-made peacoats were used by sailors to combat the cold weather.

These men’s leather-style jackets were perfect, fashion-forward alternatives to traditional naval jackets. When it comes to the best men’s leather coat fashion, you often find Leather Peacoats in the luxury vintage collections. You can style a leather coat with dark denim for a casual look or pair it with wool scarves and tailored trousers for winter-ready charisma.

Scuba Jackets

Scuba jackets are a type of leather jacket that draws inspiration directly from scuba diving wear. Synthetic blends and leathers are used to create body-hugging or perfect slim-fit designs of jackets.

These kinds of jackets have a minimal look with sleep leather and a zip-up front. Scuba wetsuits and leather jackets became part of trends in the early 2010s. It is one of the most popular types of leather jackets for ladies, especially those who prefer a simple and sleek look. Scuba ladies’ leather jacket designs typically feature bold, matte finishes and lack lapels. You can grab this style of leather jackets in cropped or extended length versions. Neoprene-style or slim-fit leather jackets are also known as scuba leather jackets.

Belted Jackets

Belted jackets feature integrated or detachable belts that cinch the waist and let the wearer get a well-defined silhouette. This style of leather jackets is quite famous among women although some designs for men also exist.

These types of leather jackets for women create a perfect balance of fashion-forward style and functionality.They come with adjustable waist options so one can style it for formal or casual look. The designs of belted jackets are often inspired from trench coats and biker jackets but with an integration of belts.

Belted leather jacket styles became part of glam fashion in the 1980s but basically it earned its name and fame in the 1940s. They are part of every woman’s fashion wardrobe because belts offer a flattering fit regardless of body type. Buckles and sashes are used to accessorize a complete look for an elegant evening look.

Suede Leather Jackets

Scuba jackets are a type of leather jacket that draws inspiration directly from scuba diving wear. Synthetic blends and leathers are used to create body-hugging or perfect slim-fit designs of jackets.

These types of jackets feature a minimalist design with sheep leather and a zip-up front. Scuba wetsuits inspired leather jackets became part of trends in the early 2010s. It is one of the most popular types of leather jackets for ladies, especially those who prefer a simple and sleek look. Scuba ladies’ leather jacket designs typically feature bold, matte finishes and lack lapels. You can grab this style of leather jackets in cropped or extended length versions. Neoprene-style or slim-fit leather jackets are also known as scuba leather jackets.

Oversized Leather Jackets

 An oversized leather jacket is a style of leather jacket intentionally designed to have a looser, boxy fit. This style of leather jacket is quite popular among women who prefer a jacket that hangs away from the body, offering them an instant laid-back look. Boxy leather jackets are categorized among the contemporary types of leather jackets for women.

When it comes to adding a bit more edgy look to the overall design of these leather jackets, stylists incorporate extended hemlines, wide sleeves, and drop shoulders. The ultimate goal of such addition is to craft a bold fashion statement.

Generation Z is quite fond of loose-fit leather jackets, as they feel a sense of fashion freedom with their relaxed design. They usually style oversized leather jackets over a simple shirt or over several hoodies to look simply cool.

Baggy leather jackets are typically the most popular types of leather jackets women wear, but some men also wear this specific style to present a fashion-forward look.

Aviator Leather Jackets 

Aviator leather jackets are made from thick leather and feature a fur lining or shearling to protect the wearer from cold weather. They feature wide lapels, optional buckled straps at the collar and waist, and a front zip. Iconic aviator leather coats are known as flight or pilot jackets because they are designed to protect pilots from the unheated cockpits of their aircraft. A timeless design of a leather pilot jacket seamlessly blends fashion and functionality in the form of a flight jacket.

Modern streetwear styles of leather jackets often feature a drop-shoulder design, which many youngsters pair with high-top sneakers, as it offers a perfect urban look. Guys bring classic winter appeal to these types of men’s leather jackets by making a timeless combo of jackets with dark denim jeans and a chunky knit sweater.

Pilot leather jackets for women are typically a cropped version of the design, styled with heeled boots and skinny jeans. Some women create a subtle contrast by layering an aviator jacket style with a soft knit dress for an ultimate bold appeal.

Hooded Leather Jackets 

A hooded leather jacket adds a bit of functionality in a well-defined look of leather jacket with a hood. Most of the time this hood is removable, so the wearer can choose between high-end appearance and a more relaxed appeal. 

When it comes to choosing different leather jacket styles, you can easily switch between bomber or biker based on personal preference.

A hooded leather coat is quite a popular street style among youngsters who need something comfortable to wear every day. A long leather coat with hood extending below the waist and to the knees, is a practical outerwear for the weekend, especially when you are expecting heavy rain or cold weather. They are popular types of leather jackets men but women also wear them especially those who are inspired by gothic street fashion style.

Varsity Leather Jackets 

Varsity leather jackets get style inspiration from college sportswear. They are basically a combination of leather and wool material, leather sleeves are designed with a warm wool body. Therefore, you always find them in enticing contrast whereas mostly colors of jackets showcase school spirits. Other names for varsity leather jacket styles are letterman jackets. 

At first American high school and college athletes wore varsity bomber leather jackets and this type of leather jackets became famous all around. They have youthful appeal and are quite famous among youngsters. Athletic leather jackets men are styled with jeans and sneakers while leather styles women jackets are usually paired with skirts and dreses. 

Shearling Leather Jackets 

Shearling leather jackets typically feature a shearling lining, often made from sheepskin or lambskin, to enhance the overall warmth of these outerwear pieces. They are categorized among the premium types of leather jackets for women, as they possess a subtle, luxurious, and fashionable appeal. Thanks to its shearling lining, these leather jacket styles are ideal for colder climates. They are cozy and functional inside while having a contemporary outer look. Shearling leather jackets for women are usually paired with boots to get an edgy streetwear look.

Nubuck Jackets

Nubuck leather jackets are made from sanded and buffed top-grained leather. Thereby the texture of this unique leather jacket is velvety. People often mistake this type of jacket style with suede but it has a different texture and appeal.

When compared with a full grain leather jacket, this plain nubuck leather jacket is less durable but its subtle sheen with luxurious  look make it the coolest leather jackets for men. The most popular men’s leather jacket styles with nubuck material are biker, bomber, trucker, and moto. 

Nubuck smooth brown leather jacket men’s style is pretty common, but you also find them in sophisticated neutral and bold earthy hues.

Sanded leather jackets are quite versatile in design, thereby it’s easy for both men and women to pick them for various ocassion from casual meet up to formal get togethers. 

Trucker Jackets 

Trucker jackets are made from stiff leather to hold its short, sleek and boxy silhouette. As the name explains it a bit, originally trucker leather jacket styles were made especially for truck drivers. At first they became popular with its denim designs but then this type of jacket style found its place in the leather world. 

Trucker jacket style is quite popular among youngsters due to its rugged and laid-back fashion approach. It is the best mens leather jacket that can be worn everyday for an effortlessly cool look. 

When it comes to styling trucker jackets, men usually pair it with casual outfits like boots, t-shirts, and jeans for youthful appeal. On the other hand, women usually style trucker jackets with a casual blouse, sneakers and leggings to look simply chic.

Leather Blazers

Leather blazers blend the traditional tailoring of a blazer with the modern appeal of leather. These leather jacket styles are pretty unusual and best for a smart-casual look. They feature structured fit with clean lines.

Anyone can have a sophisticated, polished look with these different types of leather jackets. Double-breasted leather blazers are typically designed for formal events, while single-breasted blazers are more suitable for everyday use. Men pair these kinds of leather jackets with chinos and dress shoes, while women pick stylish trousers and skirts with a ladies’ leather jacket design.

Field jackets 

Field jackets are leather jackets that have distinctive multiple front pockets. The length of the jacket is halfway to the hip, while the waist is belly-button high. This type of leather jacket is designed for functional purposes. Other names for field jackets are utility jackets and military jackets.

Originally, army field jackets were designed for soldiers during World War II. Pockets were integrated into jackets to eliminate the need for additional carry bags for supplies in the field. They are the most popular men’s canvas jackets, but you also find field jackets made from durable cotton and a mix of fabrics.

Modern army-style field jackets for men have a loose fit and functionality, which men usually pair with rugged outfits. Since they have multiple pockets, they are considered the best field jackets for both men and women, making them ideal for hiking. Women usually style these outdoor jackets with skinny jeans and simple dresses to achieve a casual streetwear look.

Track Jackets

Track jackets are made from soft, stretchy material with a front zip-up design. They are originally sports jackets designed specifically for athletes who wear it during training. They were used as a warm-up garment before the race.

These gym jackets became more than sportswear with the rise of hip-hop culture during the 1960s and 1970s. At that time, these fitness jackets turned into casual jackets for fashionistas. Weather track jackets for men are usually paired with matching pants for consistent look and appeal. Women combine these fitness jackets with fitted leggings and skirts to combine comfort with style.

Leather Trench Coats

Leather Trench Coats are characterized by long flowing designs with a belted waist and double breasted buttons. They offer ample protection from cold weather. Classic trench coats were military staples as designed for soldiers during World War I. Modern double-breasted trench coats today have sophisticated layers of leather protection.  

Classical designs are quite commonly styled with casual jeans where ladies like to have a belt that cinches their waist and creates a sleek silhouette. Leather trench coats are an integral part of winter fashion especially in extreme cold weather areas.

Double Rider Jackets

Double rider jackets  feature asymmetrical upper closures, buckets, epaulets alongside wide lapels. The exact root of these moto jackets are found in the motorcycle culture. Irving Schott designed double rider jackets for his brand Schott NYC in the 1920s. They were designed for motorcycle riders who could get protection against road rash and wind through them.

With the passage of time double rider jackets rose to fame among rock stars and bikers. Marlo Brando and James Dean were two Iconic stars who wore these vintage biker jackets on the road.

At present men wear classic double rider jackets with jeans and boots to get rebellious appeal. On the other hand, women style these zip-up leather jackets with flowy dresses for adding an edgy twist to their persona.

Bolero Leather Jacket

The Bolero leather jacket is a short, cropped jacket especially designed for women. These types of leather jackets have their roots in Spain, where dancers and bullfighters have traditionally worn cropped leather jackets.

This simple, tight-fitting leather jacket is usually worn alongside a minimalistic clasp. The elegant design of this type of leather jacket makes it a flattering outfit choice for both formal and casual events. Women wear cropped bolero jackets as a statement piece over casual outfits, typically paired with tops, skirts, and dresses at evening parties.

Cowboy Leather Jacket

Cowboy leather jackets are made from rugged leather material, allowing them to withstand the rough lifestyle of cowboy culture. The roots of these leather jackets are found in the American West, where they offer warmth and protection to cowboys working in harsh outdoor weather conditions.

Today, youngsters wear these Western leather jackets paired with a cowboy hat, denim jeans, and leather boots to achieve the perfect Western-inspired look. Women typically style these rustic, fringed leather jackets with flowery dresses and ankle boots to achieve a nostalgic country vibe.

Conclusion

Different types of leather jackets have unique stories to tell and distinct origins. Field jackets are all about utility, while classic biker style is a symbol of rebellion. The world of leather jackets offers a unique style of leather jacket for each person, tailored to their cultural preferences, personality, and other individual characteristics. Both men and women can elevate their outerwear game by selecting a style that suits their body type, personality, and weather conditions.

Custom bomber leather jackets stand out from the crowd with their versatile tailoring and timeless appeal. Personalization is a must-have investment, as it allows you to create a perfect fashion statement piece that is designed specifically for you. The design possibilities are endless, and such an investment brings you returns for years to come. 

Let’s redefine your street fashion identity by designing a custom bomber leather jacket today!

FAQ’s

What is the best type of leather for a jacket?

Cowhide is the best type of leather for a jacket. It is considered as a gold standard as it offers a perfect balance of affordability, durability and availability. 

What type of leather is best for jackets?

Goatskin leather jackets are good for everyday use and lambskin leather jackets offer a touch of luxury and softness. Cowhide is the perfect type of leather for rugged use while full grain and top grain leathers offer high quality. 

What type of leather jacket does Dean Winchester wear?

Wilsons leather car coat or long leather jacket is the type of leather jacket Dean Winchester wears.

What type of leather jacket should I buy?

You should buy a leather jacket based on your style preference, body type, personal fitting, use and weather requirement.

How many types of leather jacket?

There isn’t a single distinctive number for exact types of leather jackets. But 12 core types of leather jackets are biker, bomber, racer, flight, field, trucker, peacoat, blazer, trench coat, scuba, puffer, and leather vest.

What type of acrylic paint is best for leather jackets?

Water based acrylic paint is best for leather jackets.

What type of jacket do you wear with a leather skirt?

Coco Cropped Leather Jacket is a perfect type of jacket to wear with a leather skirt.

What type of jacket to wear with a leather dress?

A moto leather jacket is a type of jacket to wear with a leather dress.

What type of leather jacket did Fonzie wear?

The type of leather jacket worn by Fronzie is black leather motorcycle/biker jacket.

What type of leather jacket does Indiana Jones wear?

The type of leather jacket worn by Indiana Jones is brown leather flight jacket.

What type of leather jacket does Sam Hanna wear?

Sam Hanna wears a black leather bomber jacket.

What type of leather jacket for summer?

Leather jackets made from less thick, and breathable leather such as goatskin are suitable for summer.

What type of leather jacket looks good on guys?

Classic leather coats such as bomber and moto jackets look good on guys as they have timeless design and provide perfect fit to various body types and styles.

What type of leather jacket to get metal?

A biker style leather jacket is perfect to follow metal fashion. This type of leather jacket is durable, especially when you get it in cowhide or horsehide.

What type of paint do you use for leather jackets?

Acrylic leather paint is used for leather jackets

What type of pants to wear with a brown leather jacket?

Types of pants to wear with a brown leather jacket depends on what type of jacket you have. Combine blue jeans with distressed leather jackets to get an elegant day time appeal.Cordoury trousers blend well with brown flight leather jackets. 

What type of pants to wear with leather jacket

Types of pants to wear with leather jackets depend on types of leather jackets. Wear navy or charcoal slim fit trousers with a cafe racer jacket for getting a sophisticated edge. Combine black jeans with biker jackets as a perfect night out style. Try dress pants with bomber jackets to create a remarkable business casual look.

What type of shoes go with a brown leather jacket?

Types of shoes that go with a brown leather jacket include loafers, Derby’s, boots, Oxfords, high-top sneakers, canvas shoes and trainers.

What type of weather to wear a leather jacket?

A leather jacket should be worn during mild to cool weather where temperature is 50°F to 65°F(10°C to 18°C). In this temperature, these jackets offer required warmth to your body and don’t cause overheating.

What type of zipper are in us navy leather flight jackets

The US Navy leather flight jackets typically use durable brass or nickel metal zippers, often from brands like Talon or Crown. These zippers are designed for strength and reliability in harsh conditions.

What types of leather jackets are there?

There are more than 21 types of leather jackets out there including bomber jacket, biker jacket, puffer jacket, Belted jackets, suede jackets, scuba jackets and more.