Contrary to popular belief, not all leather jackets are the same. There are many different styles of leather jackets, each of which features a unique appearance. When shopping for a leather jacket, it’s important to choose the right style. Below are seven of the top leather jacket styles you need to know.
#1) Bomber Jacket
Also known as a flight jacket, a bomber jacket is a traditional leather jacket that was originally designed for pilots during World War I. Back then, airplanes didn’t have an enclosed cockpit, nor did they have climate-control solutions. Instead, pilots were forced to endure the cold temperatures of high-altitude flights. This prompted the U.S. Army to create the Aviation Clothing Board, which eventually led to the creation of the bomber jacket.
#2) Biker Jacket
Another common style in which leather jackets are made is the biker jacket. Biker jackets, as the name suggests, are designed for motorcycle riders. They are typically black or brown and feature a zipper on the front. With the zipper, you can close the front of a biker jacket so that it doesn’t flap around in the wind when riding a motorcycle. Of course, biker jackets aren’t restricted to motorcycle riders. It’s perfectly fine to wear one during other occasions. Many people who wear a biker jacket, in fact, have never even ridden a motorcycle. Regardless, biker jackets are among the top styles of leather jackets.
#3) Blazer
We can’t talk about popular styles of leather jackets without mentioning the blazer. As you may know, a blazer is a type of semi-formal jacket. They are more formal than sports coats but less formal than suit jackets. Leather blazers offer a balanced combination of formal and casual attire in this regard. As a result, you can wear them in most of your outfits. For the highest level of versatility, though, it’s recommended that you choose a leather blazer in a universal color. Universal colors consist of brown, beige, black and other colors that are easy to integrate into your outfits.
#4) Stretch Leather Jacket
What is a stretch leather jacket? Stretch leather jackets are designed with an elastic material to enhance their physical properties. Like all other leather jackets, they still feature genuine leather — it’s the main material used in their construction.
The difference is that stretch leather jackets feature a small amount of an elastic material as well. When added to a jacket, the elastic material increases the garment’s elasticity, essentially allowing it to stretch without breaking, tearing or otherwise succumbing to damage. With a stretch leather jacket, you’ll experience an unparalleled level of comfort. All leather jackets are comfortable, but those featuring an elastic material in their construction are exceptionally comfortable. This is just one more style to consider when shopping for a leather jacket.
#5) Distressed Leather Jacket
Another popular style is the distressed leather jacket. What is a distressed leather jacket exactly? Like distressed denim jeans, they are designed to feature an aged, worn-in appearance. Leather jackets tend to age gracefully. Over time, they’ll experience minor fading as well as minor scuffs and scratches — it’s just something that comes with the territory of owning a leather jacket. Many people actually prefer the unique appearance of aged leather jackets such as this because they are highly aesthetic and easy on the eyes. If you’re among this crowd, this no better solution than a distressed leather jacket.
Distressed leather jackets, such as the Distressed Black Leather Jacket #106 sold here at LeatherCult, are designed to feature a semi-worn appearance. They aren’t necessarily torn or otherwise damaged. Rather, they feature a semi-worn appearance that’s synonymous with aged leather jacket. If you prefer the unique appearance of aged leather jackets, you should check out the distressed style.
#6) Leather Long Coat
There are also leather long coats available. Most leather jackets are designed to stop at or around the waistline when worn. This is the same length for all standard jackets, including leather jackets. Leather long coats, on the other hand, are designed to extend past the waistline when worn. Some leather long coats extend to the thighs, whereas others extend to the knees or farther. Regardless, they are all designed “longer” than standard leather jackets, which is why they are known as “leather long coats.”
Leather long coats are prized during the fall and winter months. With their long length, they offer greater protection against the cold weather than standard-length leather jackets. A leather long coat will cover, at least partially, your legs when worn. Therefore, you’ll stay warm even when it’s cold outside. With that said, leather long coats are also attractive. They are designed with genuine leather and often feature a superior quality when compared to other styles of leather jackets. If you’re thinking about buying a leather jacket, you should consider a long coat style for these reasons.
#7) Cropped Leather Jacket
Cropped leather jackets are a popular choice among women. Cropped leather jackets are distinguished from all other styles by featuring a cropped construction. In other words, they only cover half of your upper body when worn.
While leather long coats are ideal to wear during the cold months of the year, cropped leather jackets are the perfect form of outerwear for the warmer months of the year. Since they only cover half of your upper body when worn, you can rest assured knowing that they will keep you cool and comfortable, even during the hot summer months.
Which of these seven styles of leather jackets should you choose? Well, there is no single best style. Maybe you prefer the classic appearance of a biker leather jacket, or perhaps you prefer the more unique and modern appearance of a distressed leather jacket. Just remember to choose a style that matches your personal preference and that you are comfortable wearing.