Leather Jacket Types Explained: Biker, Bomber, Trucker, Flight and More
The main types of leather jackets are biker, cafe racer, bomber, flight, trucker, Harrington, varsity, blazer and shearling. Each differs in collar, hem, zip and fit. This guide explains each type in a sentence or two, shows how to tell them apart, and links to examples.
The Short Answer
| Type | Key feature | Look |
|---|---|---|
| Biker | Wide collar, often asymmetric zip | Bold, classic |
| Cafe racer | Band collar, straight zip | Slim, minimal |
| Bomber | Ribbed hem and cuffs | Relaxed |
| Flight | Flat collar, flap pockets | Military heritage |
| Trucker | Button front, yoke | Western, rugged |
| Harrington | Short, zip front, plain collar | Clean, casual |
| Varsity | Snap front, ribbed trim | Sporty |
| Blazer | Lapels, tailored | Smart |
| Shearling | Wool lining | Warm, heavy |
Biker Jackets
Structured, with a wide collar and often a diagonal zip. See the biker collection or the Black and Brown Trim D-Pocket Double Rider.
Cafe Racer Jackets
Slim and minimal with a band collar. See our comparison of cafe racer vs biker jackets.
Bomber Jackets
Bombers have a ribbed hem and cuffs, which gives a blouson shape. Try the Black Leather Stand Collar Flight Jacket.
Flight Jackets
Flight jackets draw on military aviation clothing. The Brown Leather Flight Jacket in A-2 style is a classic example.
Trucker Jackets
Button front, chest pockets and a yoke. See the Brown Leather Trucker Jacket and the trucker and western collection.
Harrington Jackets
Short, zip-front jackets with a simple collar. The Reeves Brown Real Leather Harrington Jacket is an example.
Varsity and Baseball Jackets
Snap-front jackets with ribbed trim. See the Men's Black Leather Baseball Jacket and the bomber and varsity collection.
Leather Blazers
Tailored, with lapels. See the Distressed Black Leather Blazer.
Shearling Jackets
Wool-lined jackets for winter. See the shearling and winter collection.
How to Choose Between Types
- If you wear jeans and boots, choose a biker.
- If you wear smart-casual, choose a cafe racer or a blazer.
- If you prefer relaxed, choose a bomber or Harrington.
- If you live somewhere cold, choose shearling.
For more help, see our buying guide.
FAQs
What is the most versatile type?
A black cafe racer or biker jacket.
What is the difference between a bomber and a flight jacket?
A bomber has a ribbed hem and cuffs. A flight jacket is inspired by military aviation clothing, often with a flat collar and flap pockets.
Which type is warmest?
Shearling jackets, because of the wool lining.
Explore our vintage and classic jackets to compare more styles.