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Continue ShoppingOur Fabrics
Choosing the right varsity jacket materials decides how your jacket looks, feels and lasts. At JACWEARS every jacket is made to order in our Sialkot factory, so you can choose the body, sleeves and lining separately. Below you will find what each fabric is like, who it suits and how to care for it, plus a quick comparison to help schools, teams and brands decide.
Note: Actual fabric colors may slightly vary depending on screen settings.
Melton Wool (100% Virgin)
Melton wool is the classic varsity jacket body. It is a thick, tightly felted wool that blocks wind, keeps its shape and takes chenille patches and embroidery very well. Our melton wool varsity jacket bodies use 24 oz wool, the weight buyers expect from a traditional letterman jacket. It is warm enough for fall and winter, and the dense surface hides small marks.
Best for: Schools, senior classes and teams who want the authentic letterman look.
Care: Spot clean or dry clean only. Brush off dust and hang on a wide hanger.
Cowhide Leather
Genuine cowhide is the traditional choice for varsity jacket sleeves. Cowhide leather sleeves are thick, strong and wind resistant, and they soften and gain character with age. Cowhide holds its color well, so bright sleeve colors like red, gold and royal blue stay bold for years.
Best for: Classic wool and leather letterman jackets that will be worn for a long time.
Care: Wipe with a soft damp cloth, use a leather conditioner a few times a year, keep away from heat.
Cotton Fleece
Cotton fleece is soft, brushed on the inside and comfortable to wear all day. It is lighter than wool and easier to wash, which makes it popular for casual and younger buyers. It works well with embroidery and printed designs.
Best for: Kids and youth jackets, casual team wear and hooded letterman styles.
Care: Machine wash cold inside out, tumble dry low or hang dry.
Faux Leather
Faux (vinyl or PU) leather gives the look of leather sleeves at a lower cost. It is easy to wipe clean, it comes in many colors and it is animal free. It is less breathable than real leather and does not age in the same way.
Best for: Budget school orders, youth jackets, promotional jackets and vegan collections.
Care: Wipe with a damp cloth. Do not use leather conditioner or high heat.
Sheep Leather
Sheep leather (sheepskin nappa) is thinner, lighter and softer than cowhide. It drapes more like fabric and feels smooth from the first wear. It is a good choice for full leather jackets and fashion styles where comfort matters more than heavy weight.
Best for: Clothing brands, premium full leather varsity jackets and women’s styles.
Care: Same as cowhide, but treat it more gently and avoid sharp objects, as it scratches more easily.
Satin Fabric
Satin has a smooth, glossy shell that makes colors look rich and patches stand out. It is light, so satin jackets are comfortable in spring and fall, and a quilted lining adds warmth. See our satin bomber jackets.
Best for: Dance and cheer teams, event crews, bands and retro streetwear.
Care: Gentle hand wash in cool water or dry clean, hang to dry, iron on low with a cloth.
Soft Shell
Soft shell is a stretchy, water-resistant fabric with a soft inner layer. It moves with the body and keeps out light rain and wind, so it is practical for outdoor teams and staff jackets. It has a modern, technical look rather than a classic varsity look.
Best for: Coaches, staff, outdoor sports and corporate jackets.
Care: Machine wash cold, no fabric softener, hang to dry.
Materials Comparison
| Material | Feel | Warmth | Durability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melton wool | Thick, firm | High | High | Classic letterman bodies |
| Cowhide leather | Firm, softens with age | High (wind resistant) | Very high | Classic sleeves |
| Sheep leather | Soft, light | Medium to high | Medium | Fashion and full leather |
| Faux leather | Smooth | Medium | Medium | Budget and youth orders |
| Cotton fleece | Soft, brushed | Medium | Medium | Kids and casual wear |
| Satin | Smooth, glossy | Light to medium (quilted) | Medium | Events, dance, retro |
| Soft shell | Stretchy | Medium (water resistant) | High | Outdoor teams and staff |
How to Choose the Right Material
- Want the classic letterman look? Choose a melton wool body with cowhide leather sleeves.
- Working to a tight budget? Choose all-wool, or wool with faux leather sleeves.
- Ordering for kids? Choose cotton fleece or melton wool with wool sleeves; both are easy to care for.
- Need a light jacket for events or warm weather? Choose satin.
- Outdoor teams or staff? Choose soft shell.
- Launching a fashion brand? Consider sheep leather for a softer, premium feel.
Still unsure? Send us your use and budget and we will suggest a material. For bulk orders, see varsity jacket wholesale, or design your jacket for free in our Design Room.
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