Complete Guide to Leather Types for Bomber Jackets Leave a comment

Cowhide Leather

Cowhide is the classic for a reason. It’s heavy, thick, and built to take a beating. If you’re the type who actually rides or just wants a jacket that feels like armor, cowhide delivers. It’s not as buttery as lambskin, but it’ll last you decades if you care for it.

Lambskin Leather

Now, lambskin is the opposite. It’s silky soft, light, and feels like luxury the moment you put it on. A premium leather bomber jacket in lambskin drapes perfectly and looks like it came straight off a runway.

The trade-off? It’s not built for rough weather or heavy use. Personally, I keep lambskin bombers for nights out or events, not for everyday wear. They’re kind of like dress shoes; you don’t take them hiking, but they look incredible when the occasion’s right.

Goatskin Leather

Goatskin often gets overlooked, but it’s one of my favorites. It’s got a grainy look, more flexible than cowhide, but tougher than lambskin. Historically, the military used goatskin for flight jackets, so you know it’s proven its worth.

It gives you the best of both worlds: wearable comfort without sacrificing too much toughness. If you want long-lasting bomber jackets that don’t weigh you down, goatskin is a safe bet.

Sheepskin Leather

If you live somewhere cold, a sheepskin bomber jacket is a game-changer. Unlike lambskin, sheepskin keeps the wool attached, which means you get that warm, fuzzy lining inside.

It’s basically two jackets in one: leather on the outside, shearling on the inside. You won’t need extra layers in winter because it traps heat so well. Just don’t expect it to be the lightest option built for warmth first.

Buffalo Leather

Buffalo leather is thicker than cowhide and has a distinctive, rugged texture. It looks raw, tough, and a little wild. I’d call it the “adventurer’s leather.” If you want a rugged bomber jacket material that feels like it’s ready for road trips, hikes, or just surviving whatever life throws at you, buffalo delivers. It doesn’t polish as easily, but if you like that broken-in look, you’ll appreciate it.

Suede and Nubuck Leather

Not every bomber has to look rugged. Suede and nubuck are made from the inner side of the hide, giving you that soft, velvety finish. They’re perfect if you’re after fashion-forward bombers. The downside? They’re harder to maintain. One rainstorm and suede can stain. Still, if you want something refined and stylish, it’s worth having one in rotation.