A good leather jacket can last for years, so it pays to choose carefully. This guide explains the main leather types, jacket styles, how a leather jacket should fit, and how to look after it.

Quick answer

Choose the leather type first (genuine leather for durability and a natural finish, faux leather for a lower price and easier care), then pick a style that suits how you’ll wear it, such as biker, bomber or a clean minimal cut. Make sure it fits closely across the shoulders and lets you move your arms freely.

Leather types explained

Genuine leather

Genuine leather is made from animal hide. It is durable, develops a natural patina over time and usually feels softer the more you wear it. It costs more and needs occasional conditioning.

Lambskin and sheepskin

Lambskin is one of the softest and lightest leathers, with a smooth, slightly buttery feel. It drapes well and suits fitted styles, but it is more delicate than heavier hides.

Cowhide

Cowhide is thicker and tougher. It takes longer to break in, but it stands up well to daily wear and is a classic choice for biker jackets.

Suede

Suede is leather with a brushed, velvety surface. It looks refined and feels soft, but it marks more easily and should be kept away from rain.

Faux leather (PU or vegan leather)

Faux leather is a synthetic material made to look like leather. It is lighter on the wallet, needs very little care and is animal-free. It does not develop a patina and is usually less breathable than genuine leather.

Popular leather jacket styles

• Biker jacket: asymmetric front zip, wide lapels and a fitted waist. Bold and timeless. Browse men’s biker jackets and women’s biker jackets.
• Bomber jacket: ribbed cuffs and waistband with a relaxed body. Easy to wear casually. See men’s bomber jackets.
• Café racer: a short stand-up collar and a clean front with minimal detail. Works with both casual and smart outfits.
• Suede trucker or casual jacket: softer texture and a relaxed look. See men’s suede jackets.
• Movie and TV-inspired jackets: styles inspired by looks from films and series, for anyone who wants a recognisable statement piece.

How should a leather jacket fit?

• Shoulders: the shoulder seams should sit on the edge of your shoulders, not past them.
• Chest: snug but not tight. You should be able to zip it up over a T-shirt or thin knit without pulling.
• Sleeves: they should reach your wrist bone with your arms relaxed, and not ride far up when you reach forward.
• Length: most biker and café racer styles end at or just above the belt line. Bombers end at the waist.

Genuine leather softens and moulds to your shape with wear, so a close fit on day one is normal. If you are between sizes, contact us before ordering and we’ll help you choose.

How to care for a leather jacket

• Hang it on a wide, padded hanger so the shoulders keep their shape.
• Wipe off dust and light marks with a soft, dry cloth.
• Condition genuine leather a few times a year with a leather conditioner to stop it drying out.
• If it gets wet, let it dry naturally at room temperature, away from radiators and direct heat.
• Store it in a breathable garment bag, not plastic.
• Faux leather only needs a wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Frequently asked questions

Is genuine leather better than faux leather?

Genuine leather usually lasts longer, breathes better and ages with character. Faux leather costs less, is animal-free and needs less care. The better choice depends on your budget and how often you’ll wear the jacket.

Can you wear a leather jacket in the rain?

Light rain is fine for most leather jackets if you dry them naturally afterwards. Avoid heavy rain with suede, which marks easily.

Do leather jackets stretch?

Genuine leather softens and relaxes slightly with wear, especially around the elbows and shoulders. It will not go up a full size, so choose a fit that feels comfortable from the start.

What colour leather jacket is most versatile?

Black is the most versatile and works with almost any outfit. Brown gives a warmer, more casual look.

Shop leather jackets at Florida Outfit

Browse men’s leather jackets and women’s leather jackets. Every order ships free to the US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Sweden, with free 30-day returns.