Walk into any leather jacket shop and most of what you see falls into three families: the biker, the bomber and the aviator. They share the same material but not the same attitude. Knowing what separates them makes it much easier to find the one that fits the way you dress.
Biker, bomber and aviator: three shapes, three moods.
The biker jacket: sharp and a little rebellious
The biker (or moto) jacket is the one most people picture first. It has an asymmetric front zip that runs diagonally across the chest, a wide lapel that can snap down, a belted or fitted waist and often zipped pockets. It is cut close to the body and sits at the waist.
- The look: edgy, fitted, a little rock and roll.
- Wear it with: a plain tee and slim jeans, black boots, or over a dress for contrast.
- Suits: anyone who wants a sharp outline. It is flattering on most builds because of the defined shoulder and waist.
The bomber jacket: relaxed and easy
The bomber has a centre front zip, a simple collar and ribbed cuffs and hem that gather the jacket in. The shape is boxier and shorter, with more room through the body, so it is the easiest of the three to throw on.
- The look: casual, clean and modern.
- Wear it with: hoodies, knits, chinos or jeans, and sneakers.
- Suits: people who want comfort and movement, and anyone who prefers a less fitted look.
The biker's sharp lines and the bomber's relaxed shape suit very different days.
The aviator jacket: warm, rugged and classic
The aviator has its roots in pilot gear. It is usually heavier and warmer, often with a large collar, sometimes a shearling or fleece-style lining and a thicker leather. It is made for cold weather first and style second.
- The look: bold, vintage and substantial.
- Wear it with: chunky knits, dark denim and boots in autumn and winter.
- Suits: colder climates and people who want a jacket that makes a statement.
Quick comparison
- Most formal and fitted: biker.
- Most relaxed: bomber.
- Warmest: aviator.
- Easiest to dress up: biker.
- Easiest every day: bomber.
How to decide
- Start with your wardrobe. If you mostly wear tailored pieces, the biker fits in. If you live in hoodies and sneakers, start with a bomber.
- Think about your climate. Cold winters point to an aviator. Mild weather points to a lighter biker or bomber.
- Choose the leather to match. Softer leather suits the fitted biker and the relaxed bomber, while firmer leather keeps an aviator's structure. Our guide to sheepskin, cowhide and suede explains the differences.
- Then pick the color. Black is the safest. Brown is warmer. Read how to choose a leather jacket color for more.
Ready to look? See the full range of men's jackets and women's jackets, or design your own if you already know the style you want.
