Lambskin Leather: Soft, Light and Made for Everyday Luxury
Lambskin is the leather people fall for the moment they touch it. It is soft, light and smooth, and it drapes beautifully, which makes it the go-to choice for dressier jackets and anyone who doesn't want to wait for a jacket to break in.
Lambskin at a glance
| Comes from | Young sheep |
|---|---|
| Feel | Very soft, smooth, buttery |
| Weight | Light |
| Durability | ●●●●● |
| Break-in | Almost none |
| Best for | Everyday jackets, blazers, coats |
| At White Buraq | Yes, see our leather jackets |
What is lambskin?
Lambskin is leather made from the skin of young sheep. The skin is thin with a fine, tight grain, and after tanning it becomes remarkably soft and supple. Much garment lambskin is chrome-tanned and finished smooth, and very soft grades are often sold as nappa.
How lambskin looks and feels
Lambskin feels buttery and light, with a subtle sheen and a smooth surface. A lambskin jacket moves with you rather than holding a stiff shape, so it looks sharp over a shirt or knit and feels comfortable all day.
Pros and cons
- Pros: very soft and comfortable from day one, lightweight, elegant drape, good for layering and warmer climates.
- Cons: less resistant to scratches and abrasion than cowhide; not ideal for motorcycle riding; needs a little more care.
What lambskin is best for
Everyday jackets, leather blazers, coats and slim biker styles worn for fashion rather than riding. If comfort and a refined look matter most, choose lambskin.
How to care for lambskin
Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth, keep sharp objects (keys, bag buckles) away from it, and condition lightly a few times a year with a product suitable for soft leather. Store it on a padded hanger in a breathable cover. See our leather care guide.
Lambskin vs cowhide
Lambskin is softer and lighter; cowhide is tougher and better for hard wear. Our full comparison, lambskin vs cowhide, helps you choose.
Lambskin at White Buraq
Many of our jackets, coats and blazers are made in lambskin, including our lambskin leather car coat. Browse all leather jackets to find your fit.
Frequently asked questions
Is lambskin good for a leather jacket?
Yes, especially if you want softness and comfort. It is lighter and dressier than cowhide.
Is lambskin durable?
It is durable with normal care but less abrasion resistant than cowhide, so it isn't the best choice for riding.
Does lambskin stretch?
It gives a little and moulds to you, but a well-fitted jacket won't stretch out of shape.
Related leather types
- Sheepskin: Sheepskin can mean smooth leather or a hide with the wool left on.
- Nappa: Nappa is a name for very soft, smooth grain leather, usually lamb, sheep, goat or calf.
- Goatskin: Goatskin is light yet surprisingly strong, with a natural pebbled grain.
- Cowhide: Cowhide is the world's most-used leather: tough, dependable and full of character.
Explore all 30 leathers in our leather types guide, see our leather care guide, or contact us for help choosing a jacket.