Ever wonder why shearling jackets feel so soft and warm? Well, it all comes down to what they’re made of and where they came from. I remember seeing my neighbor’s old shearling coat once; it looked super rugged but also kind of cozy. That got me curious about the origin of shearling jackets and what makes them so special.
What Is Shearling Anyway?
Shearling is basically sheepskin that’s been tanned and dressed with the wool still on it. The wool side is super fluffy and soft, while the leather side is smooth and kinda tough. I read somewhere that a guy in Brooklyn bought a shearling jacket, thinking it was just a fancy leather coat. He was blown away when he put it on during winter—felt like a walking blanket.
The wool and leather combo is why these jackets are great for cold places. Some people think it’s just for style, but iyou’veou ever had to shovel snow or walk your dog in icy wind, you’ll see why shearling jackets are practical.
Origin of Shearling Jackets
The story of shearling jackets goes way back. They started in places where winters were brutal, like Mongolia and Northern Europe. People needed something warmer than just regular wool clothes. They realized keeping the skin on the wool made it way better at trapping heat.
In fact, I once read a blog by a Scandinavian traveler. He said local farmers would make their own shearling coats every winter. They’d tan the hides themselves, and the jackets would last for years. These weren’t fashion pieces, just survival gear. Over time, they got popular in Europe and eventually in the US.
How Shearling Jackets Are Made
Making a shearling jacket is kinda old-school. First, the sheepskin is cleaned. Then it’s tanned using oils and natural fats. Some places still do it by hand. The wool is combed to make it soft, and then the leather side is stretched and treated.
I remember a friend from New York who bought a handmade shearling coat from a small workshop. She said it smelled kinda funky at first, but after a few days, it felt amazing. That smell? That’s just the natural oils in the leather and wool.
Material Composition
The material is simple but effective. You’ve got:
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Sheepskin: Main material, gives durability.
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Wool: Keeps you warm, soft, and breathable.
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Leather: Makes it water-resistant and sturdy.
Some jackets use lambskin, which is softer but less durable. Some use double-faced shearling, meaning both sides have wool, but those are rarer.
Why Shearling Jackets Last Long
One thing I love about these jackets is how long they last. My uncle had a shearling jacket he wore almost every winter for 15 years. He told me all he did was brush off dirt and let it air dry when wet. Unlike synthetic coats that start peeling or flattening after a season, a good shearling jacket just gets better with age.
The secret is the material. Wool is naturally insulating and water-resistant. Leather is strong. Together they survive rough winters, rainy streets, and even some clumsy spills.
Common Issues Homeowners (and City Walkers) Face
Okay, this might sound weird, but wearing a shearling jacket in city winters is kinda like having a roofing emergency at home. Let me explain. When a roof leaks, water can ruin insulation and structure. When a shearling jacket gets wet, if you don’t dry it right, the wool can clump and the leather can harden.
I’ve seen people throw their jackets in the dryer or on radiators. Big mistake. The proper way is just to air dry flat, like you would let a roof patch settle after repair. Simple care, big difference.
Style and Function
People also wear shearling jackets because they look good. But they’re not just fashion. They’re practical for winter errands, dog walks, and commuting. I remember a neighbor in Chicago telling me her shearling jacket saved her during a brutal snowstorm. She was warm and dry while everyone else was shivering.
Seasonal Tips
Shearling jackets shine in fall and winter. In spring, it might be too hot unless you live somewhere chilly. Some local shops in Boston even offer shearling jackets lined with lighter wool for slightly warmer seasons. That’s a clever fix for people who want the style without sweating too much.
Also, keep an eye on the water. A drizzle won’t ruin your jacket, but soaking it will. Regular brushing keeps the wool from matting and the leather from cracking.
Buying Tips
If you’re thinking about getting a shearling jacket, don’t just go for the cheap options. Some synthetic ones feel okay, but don’t last long. Real shearlingweightso it, it feels warm, and the leather side should look natural.
One story I heard from a blog: a guy bought a fake shearling jacket from an online sale. First winter, the inside wool felt like cardboard. Cost him more in replacements than a proper jacket would’ve. True story.
Final Thoughts
The origin of shearling jackets is all about survival and comfort. From cold European winters to modern city streets, these jackets keep people warm, dry, and stylish. They’re simple, durable, and full of character.
Caring for them is easy if you treat them like the natural material they are. Brush, air dry, and enjoy. Over time, the jacket molds to your body, keeps you warm in winter, and maybe even becomes a little family heirloom.
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FAQs
What are shearling jackets made of?
Shearling jackets come from sheepskin with the wool still attached. The wool side keeps you super warm and soft, while the leather side is smooth and tough. Some jackets use lambskin, which is softer but doesn’t last as long.
Where does the best shearling come from?
The best shearling usually comes from colder places where sheep grow thick, dense wool. Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Europe are known for good-quality hides. The colder the climate, the fluffier and warmer the wool.
What type of fabric is shearling?
It’s not a woven fabric like cotton or polyester. Shearling is natural sheepskin with fleece still on it. Wool keeps you insulated, and the leather underneath makes it strong and kind of water-resistant.
What is original shearling?
Original shearling means real sheepskin with the wool still attached. It’s natural, breathable, and lasts a long time if you care for it. Fake or synthetic versions don’t give the same warmth or durability.
Awais Shamsi 
Spero Agency 
Prime Star