A good leather jacket is one of the few things you buy once and wear for years. But walk into any shop and the choice is overwhelming: biker, bomber, aviator, café racer, trucker, coat. They are all “leather jackets”, yet each one looks, fits and feels completely different.
This guide walks you through the five classic styles, who each one suits, and how to choose the leather and the fit — so the jacket you pick is the one you reach for every day.
1. The Biker Jacket — bold and timeless
The biker (or “perfecto”) is the jacket most people picture first: an asymmetric front zip, wide lapels that snap down, a belted waist and plenty of hardware. It was built for motorcycle riders, and it still carries that rebellious energy.
- Best for: anyone who wants a statement piece; works over a T-shirt, a hoodie or even a dress.
- Fit: close to the body and slightly cropped. If you are between sizes and like to layer, size up.
- Wear it with: slim dark jeans, boots, a plain white or black tee.
2. The Bomber Jacket — easy, everyday comfort
Originally made for military pilots, the bomber has a straight zip, a short body and ribbed cuffs and hem that keep out the wind. It is the most relaxed of the leather styles and the easiest to wear every day.
- Best for: a first leather jacket, or anyone who prefers comfort over edge.
- Fit: roomy through the body, gathered at the waist. True to size.
- Wear it with: chinos, sneakers, a knit or a hoodie.
3. The Aviator & Shearling Jacket — built for winter
The aviator — often called a B-3 — has a thick shearling lining and a big fur collar you can turn up against the cold. It is the warmest leather jacket you can own and instantly recognisable.
- Best for: cold climates, travel to Europe or winter trips, and anyone who wants a rugged, vintage look.
- Fit: the lining takes up room, so size up if you are between sizes.
- Wear it with: a chunky knit, dark denim and boots.
4. The Café Racer — clean and minimal
The café racer is a biker jacket stripped back: a straight zip, a small band or snap collar and almost no extra hardware. It is sleek enough to wear over a shirt and still looks sharp on a motorbike.
- Best for: anyone who wants leather that feels smart rather than loud.
- Fit: slim and close to the body.
- Wear it with: a crew-neck knit, tailored trousers or jeans, loafers or boots.
5. Leather Coats & Blazers — for the office and beyond
Longer coats and leather blazers bring leather into smarter outfits. A knee-length coat or a single-breasted blazer looks just as right over a suit as over a jumper.
- Best for: work, evenings out and anyone who wants leather in a more polished way.
- Fit: tailored, true to size.
Choosing the leather
- Lambskin: very soft and light, with a smooth finish. Comfortable from day one.
- Cowhide: thicker and tougher. Takes longer to break in but ages beautifully and protects well — the classic choice for bikers.
- Goatskin: durable with a visible grain, between lambskin and cowhide in weight.
- Suede: soft, brushed and textured. Beautiful, but needs protection from rain.
- Shearling: sheepskin with the wool left on the inside — the warmest option.
Getting the fit right
A leather jacket should feel snug but not tight when you first try it on. Check three things:
- Shoulders: the seam should sit at the edge of your shoulder, not past it.
- Sleeves: they should end at your wrist bone with your arms relaxed.
- Movement: cross your arms and reach forward — you should be able to move without the back pulling tight.
Leather softens and moulds to you over time, but it won’t grow a full size. Use our Size Guide to find your fit.
Can’t decide? Have it made for you
If you love the shape of one style but want a different leather, colour or lining — or you simply never find the right fit off the rack — design your own. With JOWEAR Bespoke you choose every detail and we make it to your measurements.