Why the Right Leather Matters
A leather bomber jacket is more than a fashion choice — it’s an investment in craftsmanship and character.
The right material determines how it looks, feels, and ages. Choose wisely, and you’ll have a jacket that grows better with time. Choose wrong, and it’ll crack, peel, or lose shape within a season.
At Leathernativ, we craft bomber jackets using only premium hides, designed for durability, comfort, and timeless appeal.
Key Qualities of Premium Leather
When browsing bomber jackets, you’ll often see terms like full-grain, top-grain, or genuine leather. Here’s what they really mean:
🥇 Full-Grain Leather
The highest grade available — it retains the hide’s natural texture and strength.
-
Extremely durable
-
Breathes well and ages beautifully
-
Develops a rich patina over time
🧥 Featured: Full-Grain Leather Bomber Jacket
🥈 Top-Grain Leather
Slightly sanded for smoothness, but still strong and long-lasting.
-
Sleek, uniform surface
-
Softer to the touch than full-grain
-
Ideal for modern, polished looks
⚠️ Genuine Leather
Despite the name, it’s the lowest quality tier.
Made from leftover hide layers — it looks fine at first but wears out fast.
Best avoided if you want longevity and true texture.
Best Leather Types for Bomber Jackets
Each leather type offers a distinct look, feel, and purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the best options for your next bomber.
🧥 1. Cowhide Leather — The Classic Armor
-
Heavy, thick, and weather-resistant
-
Perfect for daily wear or riding
-
Becomes softer with time
If you want a bomber that lasts for decades, cowhide is the go-to.
🛒 Try: Men’s Cowhide Leather Bomber Jacket
2. Lambskin Leather — Soft Luxury
-
Silky smooth texture and lightweight feel
-
Ideal for fashion-forward looks
-
Naturally drapes to your body shape
However, lambskin is delicate — perfect for nights out, not for rugged use.
3. Goatskin Leather — Balanced Strength
-
Grainy surface with natural flexibility
-
Military-tested durability (used in WWII flight jackets)
-
Midweight: softer than cowhide, tougher than lambskin
The best of both worlds — versatile, tough, and comfortable.
🧵 Explore: Goatskin Bomber Jackets
4. Sheepskin Leather — Built for Cold Weather
-
Leather exterior with shearling wool inside
-
Exceptional warmth for winter
-
Naturally insulated yet breathable
Think of it as two jackets in one — rugged outside, cozy inside.
5. Buffalo Leather — Rugged & Raw
-
Thickest and toughest hide
-
Prominent grain and rustic appeal
-
Ages with a dramatic patina
Perfect for those who love a rough, adventurous edge.
🛒 See: Buffalo Leather Jackets
6. Suede & Nubuck — Soft, Stylish Finishes
-
Made from the inner hide for a velvety feel
-
Lightweight and fashion-focused
-
Best for occasional wear (not rainy days)
Suede bombers bring refined texture and casual luxury to your look.
The Importance of Lining
Even the best leather can feel uncomfortable with poor lining.
Here’s what to look for inside your bomber:
| Lining Type | Best For | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Quilted | Winter wear | Extra warmth without bulk |
| Cotton | All seasons | Breathable and comfortable |
| Shearling | Cold climates | Luxurious warmth and insulation |
The Role of Fit
A great bomber jacket should:
-
Fit snug on shoulders
-
End just at your waist
-
Have sleeves that stop at your wrists
If it’s too loose, you lose structure; too tight, you lose comfort.
A perfect fit lets the leather’s natural grain move with you — a sign of expert tailoring like Leathernativ’s.
Quick Material Comparison
| Leather Type | Texture | Durability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cowhide | Thick & rugged | ★★★★★ | Everyday wear |
| Lambskin | Soft & smooth | ★★★☆☆ | Style & luxury |
| Goatskin | Grainy & flexible | ★★★★☆ | Balanced comfort |
| Sheepskin | Wool-lined | ★★★★★ | Winter warmth |
| Buffalo | Coarse & tough | ★★★★★ | Adventure wear |
| Suede | Velvety soft | ★★☆☆☆ | Fashion-forward use |
🧩 Final Thoughts
Choosing the right leather material for your bomber jacket is about more than looks — it’s about lifestyle, comfort, and legacy.
At Leathernativ, every bomber jacket is handcrafted with ethically sourced, full-grain leather to ensure it not only looks iconic but lasts for years.
Whether you want rugged cowhide or sleek lambskin, your perfect fit is waiting.