Shearling: The Warmest Leather, With the Wool Left On
Shearling is what keeps classic aviator jackets so warm. It is a single material with two faces: leather or suede on the outside and soft, dense wool on the inside.
Shearling at a glance
| Comes from | Sheep or lamb, wool left on |
|---|---|
| Feel | Suede or leather outside, plush wool inside |
| Weight | Medium to heavy |
| Durability | ●●●●● |
| Break-in | Very short |
| Best for | Aviator and B-3 jackets, winter coats, collars |
| At White Buraq | Yes, see our shearling jackets |
What is shearling?
Shearling is the skin of a sheep or lamb that has been tanned with the wool still attached. The wool is then sheared to an even length, which is where the name comes from. Because the wool and the skin are one piece, there is no separate lining to wear out or come loose. The outside can be finished as smooth leather or as a brushed, suede-like surface.
How shearling looks and feels
The wool side is thick, springy and very soft. The leather side ranges from a velvety suede to a smooth or waxed finish. Shearling garments are warm without feeling clammy, because wool traps air and lets moisture escape.
Real vs faux shearling
Real shearling is a natural hide with the wool on. Faux shearling is a synthetic pile fabric made to look like wool, often used for collars and linings on leather jackets. Faux shearling is lighter, cheaper and easy to care for, but it is not as breathable or as warm as the real thing. A good maker will always tell you which one you are buying.
Pros and cons
- Pros: exceptional warmth, breathable, naturally soft, no separate lining needed, classic aviator look.
- Cons: bulky and heavier than an unlined jacket; more expensive; needs specialist cleaning.
What shearling is best for
Winter coats, B-3 bombers and aviator jackets, collars, cuffs and boots. If you live somewhere with real winters, a shearling jacket is one of the warmest things you can own.
How to care for shearling
Brush the wool gently to keep it from matting, spot-clean the outside with a suede brush or a damp cloth, and always let it dry naturally away from heaters. Store it on a broad hanger with room to breathe. For a deep clean, use a leather specialist. See our leather care guide and our advice on what to do if leather gets wet.
Shearling vs sheepskin
All shearling is sheepskin (or lambskin), but not all sheepskin is shearling. Sheepskin can also mean the leather with the wool removed.
Shearling at White Buraq
We make aviator, B-3 and bomber jackets with shearling collars and linings, and some styles use faux shearling instead. Each product description states which is used. Browse our shearling and fur jackets.
Frequently asked questions
Is shearling real fur?
Real shearling is sheepskin or lambskin with the wool left on, so it is a natural hide. Faux shearling is a synthetic fabric.
Is shearling warmer than wool?
Shearling combines a windproof hide with a dense wool pile, so a shearling jacket is usually warmer than a wool coat of similar weight.
Can shearling get wet?
Light rain is fine. Let it dry naturally away from heat, then brush the surface to restore it. Avoid soaking it.
Related leather types
- Sheepskin: Sheepskin can mean smooth leather or a hide with the wool left on.
- Lambskin: Lambskin is buttery soft and light, and comfortable from the first day.
- Suede: Suede has a soft, velvety nap and deep, rich colour.
- Goatskin: Goatskin is light yet surprisingly strong, with a natural pebbled grain.
Explore all 30 leathers in our leather types guide, see our leather care guide, or contact us for help choosing a jacket.