How to Choose Between Leather and Coated Bomber Jackets
Bomber jackets come in two very different material families — genuine or suede leather, and coated fabrics like nylon twill or softshell. They share the same silhouette, but wear, look, and feel completely differently. Here's how to choose.
Leather Bombers: Classic, Durable, Premium
A leather bomber — usually cowhide or sheep leather — is the traditional choice. It has a natural texture, structured drape, and ages well with wear, developing a broken-in look that coated fabrics can't replicate. Sheep leather in particular is lighter and softer than cowhide, giving a cleaner, more flexible finish.
Leather works best for: fashion pieces, brand merchandise, and anyone who wants a jacket that looks and feels premium from day one and improves with age.
The trade-off: leather costs more, weighs more, and needs occasional conditioning to stay supple.
Coated Bombers: Lightweight, Practical, Weather-Ready
A coated bomber — typically nylon twill or softshell — trades leather's heft for a lighter, more weather-resistant jacket. Nylon twill is water-resistant and holds up well to daily wear, while softshell adds a bit more warmth and flexibility for outdoor use. Both take embroidery and printed logos cleanly, and neither requires the maintenance leather does.
Coated fabrics work best for: bulk team orders, corporate uniforms, and anyone who needs a practical, easy-care jacket rather than a fashion statement piece.
Practical Differences
Weight: Coated fabrics are noticeably lighter than leather, which matters for jackets worn all day.
Weather resistance: Nylon and softshell handle light rain and wind better than untreated leather.
Cost: Leather bombers cost more — both the material itself and the extra care they need.
Customisation: Both take embroidery well; coated fabrics are usually the better base for large printed logos since leather needs specific techniques (debossing, leather patches) rather than direct printing.
Making the Call
If the jacket is a personal or brand piece meant to be worn for years, leather is worth the investment. If you're ordering for a team, staff, or event where practicality and budget matter more than premium feel, a coated bomber is the smarter choice.
