What is Shearling Leather?

Key Takeaways:

• Shearling leather is sheepskin that has been tanned with the wool still attached.
• It’s warm, breathable, and lightweight, making it a top choice for jackets, boots, and accessories.
• While faux shearling exists, nothing beats the durability, temperature control, and luxurious feel of the real deal.

When it comes to the coziest and most luxurious types of leather, Shearling leather is highly sought after specifically in the fashion industry. Anyone who has experienced its warmth and comfort would know how incredibly soft and warm a shearling jacket or boots feel. 

This blog will be a shearling leather tell-all, helping you understand the origin, specific features, and uses of the material. 

What Does Shearling Mean?

To define shearling it is a sheepskin that has been tanned with the wool still attached. Unlike regular wool, which is sheared off the sheep, shearling preserves both the leather side and the soft wool interior. This fusion of wool's warmth and sheepskin's softness makes it a highly valued material.

What is Shearling Fabric?

Shearling is not a woven fabric like cotton or polyester. The term “shearling fabric” refers to the type of leather made from genuine shearling. It combines a suede side or leather exterior with plush inner wool interior, offering a perfect balance of insulation and comfort. Due to being incredibly warm and durable with a luxe feel, shearling is used to make high-end jackets, boots, and accessories. 

What is Shearling Made of?

Shearling comes from shearling sheep, which are basically young sheep whose hides have been shorn once before leather tanning. The result is a soft, dense wool that retains its insulating properties. Because the clipped fur surface remains attached to the hide, shearling is more durable and natural-looking than synthetic alternatives. 

Benefits of Sheepskin Shearling Material

There are many reasons to opt for shearling leather material for your winter wear, and here are the primary ones.

Insulation

The main reason why shearling is such a well-liked material is its ability to keep you warm. Shearling wool is one of the best natural insulators. The wool fibers trap heat while allowing moisture to escape, keeping you warm without overheating. This makes shearling an excellent warm material for extremely cold weather.

Weight

Even though it’s fabulously warm, shearling is surprisingly lightweight. Unlike heavy, bulkier winter materials like tweed or canvas, shearling offers insulation without weighing you down, making it a preferred choice for outerwear. Most shearling coats are on the pricier side due to their effective warmth and light weight.

Breathability

Unlike synthetic materials like faux leather, shearling is naturally breathable. The sueded leather surface is porous, while the wool layer wicks moisture away from the body, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable even in varying temperatures.

Durability

Shearling leather is incredibly tough. If you are maintaining it properly, it can last for decades without losing its softness or strength. Shearling maintains its integrity over time as opposed to other materials that wear down quickly.

Uses of Shearling Leather

Shearling is commonly used in winter wear, such as leather jackets, coats, boots, and gloves. Luxury brands prefer it for high-end fashion pieces, while outdoor brands use it in practical winter gear. Its combination of warmth, comfort, and style makes it a favorite for:

• Primary material as well as lining for jackets & coats (classic aviator styles, biker jackets). It adds insulation without bulk, making coats and boots extra cozy. If you are looking for a bespoke leather jacket made of shearling or shearling coats, let Leather Skin Shop handle the customization with our expert design consultants and artisans. 
• Boots and Slippers (UGG boots are a famous example)
• Bags and Accessories (gloves, hats, handbags)
• Home Decor (throws, rugs, seat covers)

Shearling vs Sheepskin

The key difference between shearling and sheepskin is that shearling is the hide tanned with the wool intact, while sheepskin can refer to any part of the processed sheep hide, with or without the wool. Shearling is softer, warmer, and more refined than generic sheepskin products. Shearling is often more expensive due to its softness and the specific process involved.

Shearling vs Wool

Wool is simply the fiber shorn from sheep, whereas shearling keeps the wool attached to the leather. This makes shearling more durable and better at temperature regulation than loose wool fabrics. 

Shearling vs Fur

Fur comes from various animals, such as rabbit, mink, fox or chinchilla, and has the hair left on the skin. Shearling specifically comes from sheep and has the wool attached. Fur is often softer and more luxurious, but shearling is more practical and durable for everyday wear.

Faux Shearling vs. Genuine Shearling Leather

Faux shearling is a synthetic alternative made from polyester or acrylic fibers designed to mimic real shearling’s look and feel. While synthetic shearling fur is more affordable and cruelty-free, it lacks the natural breathability, insulation, and longevity of genuine shearling. Real shearling is far more durable and regulates temperature better than fake shearling, making it a superior choice for those who value quality and function.

Maintaining Shearling Leather

To keep your shearling garment in top shape, keep it away from excessive moisture and dirt. Brush it gently to maintain the wool’s fluffiness, and use a specialized leather cleaner for the exterior. Store it in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.

Styling Shearling Jackets

Shearling jackets can be styled in unique ways for both men and women, and make a bold style statement.

For Men: Layer a shearling bomber jacket over a fitted turtleneck and slim-fit jeans for a sleek winter look. Try pairing a long shearling coat with tailored wool trousers and Chelsea boots for a refined urban aesthetic. For a rugged, casual outfit, wear a shearling-lined jacket over a hoodie with combat boots.

For Women: A cropped shearling jacket looks stunning over a fitted midi dress and knee-high boots. For an effortlessly chic look, pair a shearling aviator jacket with high-waisted leather pants and a chunky sweater. Want to stand out? Try an oversized shearling coat draped over a monochrome ensemble with statement accessories.

FAQS: 

Is Shearling Considered Fake Leather?

No. Shearling is real leather with wool still attached to the hide, making it a natural material.

Is Real Shearling a High-Quality and Durable Material?

Absolutely. Shearling is one of the most durable and long-lasting materials available in fashion.

Why Is Shearling So Expensive Compared to Other Materials?

The tanning process, quality of the wool, and natural durability make shearling more expensive than synthetic or standard leather materials.

What Exactly Is Shearling Material Made Of?

Shearling is made from the hide of a sheep with the wool still attached. The suede surface makes the outside and soft wool makes the inner side of the leather.

What Makes a Shearling Jacket Unique and Desirable?

The natural insulation, softness, and classic style of a sheepskin shearling jacket make it a staple for winter fashion.

What Is Shearling Lining and Why Is It Popular in Clothing?

Shearling lining refers to the wool interior of a shearling jacket, which gives superior warmth and comfort.

Shearling vs Wool: Which Is Warmer and More Comfortable?

Shearling is warmer because the wool remains attached to the hide, providing better insulation. 

It’s a Wrap for Shearling Leather

Now that you know much more about shearling, you can see why it is one of the top choices, especially in fashion. It is a high-end, practical material that blends warmth, durability, and timeless style. If you are considering shearling, you are investing in a material that looks great and lasts a lifetime.