When looking for style in outerwear, few garments have the appeal of a leather jacket. Regardless of the type you choose, these pieces are a mixture of ruggedness and luxury no other garment can compare with. Despite their many advantages, one concern about leather jackets is how well they handle chilly temperatures. So, are leather jackets warm? How to tell depends on a few details, which we’ll discuss below.

If you’ve ever gone into a leather store, you’ve likely noticed a wide selection to pick from. When it comes to warmth, the following factors affect how well a leather jacket holds up.

Material

Leather has many advantages over other materials. It is durable, strong, and thick and can handle rough use. Real leather also has a soft texture and visual appeal, so it fits almost any situation. Another benefit of leather is the combination of breathability and heat retention, so it stays warm and comfortable, even in cooler temperatures.

The origins of the leather also affect the warmth of the jacket. When comparing cowhide and sheepskin, cowhide is better in terms of durability. Sheepskin is softer and lighter, which improves insulation for regulating heat and cold, so it’s better for all types of weather.

Faux leather is created by combining a base material, like cotton or polyester, with plastic. It looks similar to real leather, resists stains and moisture, and retains heat, though it lacks durability and breathability, so it isn’t the best choice for many situations.

Style

Another factor contributing to the warmth of a leather jacket is the style since some designs were created to protect against the cold. For instance, a motorcycle jacket has several layers to protect you from the wind when riding, so they are generally warmer than other styles. Flight jackets contain insulating layers to protect pilots from the chilly temperatures of higher elevations, so are perfect for anyone trying to stay warm.

Lining

When looking for a leather jacket for warmth, the lining is where most of the garment’s insulation comes from. Several options are available, some of which are warmer than others.

Quilted insulation is one of the coziest options and is perfect for a cold-weather coat. Shearling or fleece linings are made from shorn sheep and vary in thickness, so you can get the right option for any situation.

Faux fur is created from synthetic materials but is usually warm enough to keep you comfortable in cool weather. Simple linings made of cotton, wool, or polyester offer the least amount of warmth, so are best for leather jackets worn during the warmer months.

Protectant

Despite its durability, leather isn’t indestructible. Moisture, stains, UV rays, and wear can cause damage over time. Using a leather protectant prevents such damage but also has another benefit. Protectants block some airflow through the material, increasing the jacket’s warmth.

Color

The color of a leather jacket may not be the first feature you think of concerning warmth, though it should be factored in. Consider what happens to black objects left out in the sun. They attract the heat, often becoming unbearably hot to the touch. To increase the warmth of a leather jacket, choose darker colors, like black, brown, or dark blue, to draw in the heat.

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There is no specific temperature a leather jacket is best for since so many factors alter its warmth capabilities. Most warmer styles are comfortable to wear in temperatures between 20 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The heavier the lining in the coat, the warmer it will be on those cool days and nights.

The various styles, materials, and linings to choose from with leather jackets allow you to pick the perfect garment for almost any type of weather. The right leather jacket blocks the wind, repels rain, and keeps you warm all at once, so you need no other coat for those chilly temperatures.