September 22, 2023 | Learn Everything Leather

What is Sheepskin Leather? Everything You Need To Know

It is a sort of leather made from sheep, as the name would imply. A form of sheepskin or hide with fur is shearling/sheepskin. It is customary to remove the animal's coat from the skin before tanning it. On the other hand, because the fleece of the sheepskin is left in place during the tanning process, it can be used right away.

Commercially, leather from a variety of animals is produced, including cows, buffalo, lambs, goats, camels, and sheep. One leather, sheep leather, stands out among the others, though. Why? In addition to having a smooth texture, it also features uniformly spaced pores. You get the impression that it is soft and silky when you touch it.

1. What is Sheep Leather?

Sheep leather, also known as sheepskin or shearling, is crafted from the hide of sheep, often with the fur still intact. It is prized for its soft, luxurious texture and natural insulation properties. Unlike shearling, sheep leather involves the removal of fur before the tanning process, resulting in a supple and versatile material used for various products, including clothing, accessories, and upholstery. Its combination of durability and comfort makes it a popular choice in fashion and design.

2. How to identify sheepskin leather?

It is well known that sheep's leather is the lightest leather used to make gloves, furniture, jackets, and other items. Any leather that has a silky feel and is both exceptionally smooth and somewhat velvety can be safely categorized as sheep leather. The fur from tanned leather has been removed, and there is little to no leather smell left on it after tanning. Sheep leather is unique among all other types of leather since it is tanned while the animal's fleece is still intact.

3. What Is the Process of Making Sheepskin Leather?

Unlike other types of leather, sheepskin is tanned with the wool still intact. Animal skins and hides are generally treated via tanning in order to produce leather. This also applies to the production of sheepskin leather. The protein structure of sheepskin is made robust and impervious to breakdown as a result of this process. Therefore, coloring or dyeing may be used.

Sheepskin can be recognised by its leather-covered other side and fleece-covered opposite. Typically, the wool-lined side is utilized inside clothing items like coats, jackets, gloves, and boots because it offers excellent insulation and comfort. On the other hand, the woolen interiors of wallets, purses, and bags provide the item with additional elegance and decoration.

4. Types of Sheepskin Leather

Not all sheepskin is created equal. While softness and warmth are standard traits, the type of finish, treatment, and design make a big difference in how it looks and feels. Whether you're shopping for comfort, fashion, or durability, knowing the different types of sheepskin can help you make a better choice.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types you'll find in premium sheepskin jackets and coats.

4.1 Double-Face Sheepskin

What It Is:

Double-face sheepskin uses a single pelt where both the suede leather and fleece are kept intact. The exterior is treated for a smooth leather-like appearance, while the interior remains wool-lined for added comfort.

Why It Matters:

This type is prized for offering the best of both worlds: soft, flexible leather on the outside and natural warmth on the inside. It’s lightweight, breathable, and often used in high-end coats and shearling jackets. Styles like the B3 aviator jacket rely on double-face sheepskin to deliver that authentic look with unbeatable comfort.

4.2 Shearling Leather

What It Is:

Shearling is a variation of double-face sheepskin where the wool is left on during tanning. It’s either trimmed short for a sleek feel or left fluffy for a fuller appearance. The outer side is often smooth and finished, while the interior is naturally curly or soft fleece.

Why It Matters:

Shearling is the go-to material when warmth and luxury are your top priorities. It adapts to your body temperature, making it both insulating and breathable. Whether you’re going for a rugged bomber or a refined long coat, shearling brings timeless elegance without sacrificing practicality.

Read More: What Is Shearling Leather? The Truth No One Told You About This Luxe Material

4.3 Nappalan Sheepskin

What It Is:

Nappalan sheepskin undergoes a special surface treatment where a light protective layer is added over the leather. This creates a suede-like texture with a matte finish, offering a sleek and modern feel. The inner wool lining remains untouched and soft.

Why It Matters:

Nappalan is perfect for those who want a cleaner, more fashion-forward appearance. It resists moisture, stains, and minor scratches better than traditional finishes. You’ll find it used in minimalistic jacket silhouettes or luxury outerwear where visual polish is key, but warmth can’t be compromised.

4.4 Suede-Back Sheepskin

What It Is:

This type reverses the sheepskin, placing the suede side outward and keeping the wool inside. It skips the glossy leather finish and leans into a more natural, textured aesthetic. The feel is soft and broken-in right from day one.

Why It Matters:

Suede-back sheepskin is great for creating that relaxed, vintage vibe. It works well in trucker-style jackets, biker coats, and heritage pieces that celebrate rugged charm. If you prefer understated looks with rich texture and cozy warmth, this is a reliable and stylish choice.

4.5 Embossed or Dyed Sheepskin

What It Is:

Some sheepskin is enhanced with embossing techniques to mimic exotic textures like crocodile or snakeskin. Others are dyed in bold or custom colors without losing the softness and thermal qualities of the leather.

Why It Matters:

These finishes are often used in designer collections or limited-edition pieces. Embossed or dyed sheepskin gives you a chance to express personality while still enjoying all the core benefits, softness, insulation, and breathability. Ideal for those who want standout pieces without compromising on comfort or warmth.

5. The Quality of Sheepskin Leather

The quality of sheepskin leather depends on whether or not the pelt, or the back of the hide, will be visible, which is determined by a variety of criteria. When the pelt is apparent and there is little to no seed contamination, the sheepskin is of high quality. Seeds from briars and other plants frequently cling to the sheep's wool, sometimes even damaging it. A scale that is described below is used to grade seed contamination.

No visible seed: Seed contamination is not visible.
Light seed: There is some seed contamination visible. hardly any, and mostly in the midsection.
Medium seed: Significant sections of the belly and leg regions have medium seed contamination.
Heavy seed: The majority of the wool, notably the leg and belly regions, is heavily seed-contaminated.
Burry: This happens when the wool has hard-seed contamination. If not removed before the fleshing process, this level of seed can harm the skin.

6. What is the Difference Between Sheep Leather and Other Types of Leather?

6.1 Which is Better: Sheep Leather vs Cow Leather?

The most common type of leather is cow leather, which is stronger and more resilient than sheep leather but less supple and softer. Heavy-duty items like shoes, huge bags, and coats are made of cow leather. Sheep leather is utilized for small, high-end fashion accessories and apparel since it is lightweight.

6.2 Which is Better: Faux Leather vs Sheep Leather?

The term "faux leather" is used to describe a variety of leather alternatives. There are now organic, laboratory-grown leathers being created, whereas before these were often produced using petrochemical byproducts. Sheep leather substitutes available now aren't nearly as robust or long-lasting.

6.3 Which is Better: Camel Leather vs Sheep Leather?

Camel hide has incredibly dense fibers, which contribute to its strength and durability. It is appropriate for heavy-duty items, just like cowhide. Sheep leather is lighter and softer, and it lacks those qualities.

6.4 Which is Better: Sheep Leather vs Lambskin?

Lambskin is the leather that a sheep produces before it is fully mature. In that it is light, delicate, and demands careful handling, it shares the same qualities as sheep leather, but to a higher level. It is employed in the creation of pricey luxury goods.

7. Is Sheepskin Leather Real Leather?

Yes, sheepskin leather is real leather. It’s made from the hide of sheep and is known for being much softer and smoother than cowhide or goatskin. Its lightweight feel makes it a great option for anyone who wants comfort without bulk.

One of its best features is breathability. Thanks to the hollow fibers, sheepskin keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer. That’s why it’s popular in coats, gloves, and even upholstery.

It’s also naturally flame-resistant and contains lanolin, which is similar to our skin’s oils. This makes it self-cleaning, antimicrobial, and gentle on sensitive skin.

8. Why You Should Go With Sheep Leather

Sheepskin leather is made from the hide of mature sheep and is known for its distinct softness, warmth, and natural fleece. Unlike many other types of leather, sheepskin includes the wool still attached, giving it unmatched insulation and comfort. The tanning process is done with care to preserve its natural texture, durability, and breathability.

Because of its soft surface and warm wool interior, sheepskin is an excellent choice for jackets and coats that feel both luxurious and easy to wear. It’s more flexible than cowhide and brings a perfect blend of style and utility.

8.1 Stylish and comfortable

One of the biggest advantages of sheepskin leather is the comfort it provides. While cowhide may feel heavy and stiff, sheepskin offers a naturally soft and smooth touch. The wool interior gives a plush, cozy feel against the skin, making it perfect for extended wear.

The combination of supple leather and soft fleece makes sheepskin a standout material for fashion-forward outerwear. It molds to your body over time and feels more like a second skin than bulky armor. Whether worn indoors or outdoors, it maintains both comfort and charm.

8.2 A lightweight material

Sheepskin may look thick, but it’s surprisingly light. Unlike traditional cowhide, which can weigh you down, sheepskin has a finer grain and thinner hide that makes it easier to wear for long hours. You won’t feel burdened walking around or wearing it all day.

This lightweight quality makes sheepskin ideal for transitional seasons like spring and fall. It keeps you warm when the temperature drops, but doesn’t overheat you when it rises. It’s a go-to for chilly evenings and breezy mornings where layering still matters without bulk.

8.3 It's warm

Unlike regular leather, which offers minimal insulation, sheepskin shines in cold weather. Thanks to the natural wool lining, it locks in body heat and keeps you toasty even on freezing days. The hide and fleece work together to offer excellent insulation.

Sheepskin jackets are often worn in extreme winter conditions for this reason. You’ll feel the difference instantly; no need to layer excessively. And the beauty of sheepskin is that it’s still breathable, so it doesn’t trap sweat or cause discomfort if temperatures fluctuate.

8.4 The appearance

Sheepskin leather carries a unique and luxurious look. It features a softer, more textured surface than traditional leather, and the wool adds visual interest and volume. That contrast between matte leather and fuzzy fleece gives sheepskin jackets a bold but refined aesthetic.

Its natural grain and plush feel make it a top pick for anyone wanting a stylish leather jacket without being flashy. Whether dyed or left in its natural shades, sheepskin has an elevated finish that pairs well with casual outfits or more formal looks.

8.5 An elite status

Sheepskin leather doesn’t just perform well; it speaks to status. It’s often more expensive than basic cowhide due to its dual-sided nature (leather + fleece), but the investment pays off. With proper care, a quality sheepskin jacket can last for decades.

Wearing sheepskin signals that you appreciate timeless design, warmth, and well-made fashion. It’s a choice that says you value both comfort and craftsmanship. From boardrooms to winter adventures, a sheepskin coat makes a lasting impression without trying too hard.

9. Is Sheep Leather Expensive?

Sheepskin leather tends to be more expensive than standard leathers because of its unique feel and softness. Unlike tough cowhide, it offers a lighter, more delicate texture that still holds strong.

Though it’s not as rugged as cowhide, sheepskin offers comfort that’s hard to beat. The wool lining adds warmth, while the thinner hide creates a feather-light feel, perfect for jackets and winter wear.

Lambskin, made from young sheep, takes it a step further. It’s extremely soft and requires a gentle tanning process. Because of its luxury finish and softness, lambskin is considered a premium, higher-priced leather.

10. What Products are Made from Sheepskin Leather?

Sheepskin leather is commonly used for products such as jackets, coats, hats, and gloves. Products are given a comforting and opulent quality that appeals to consumers because of their softness. On another level, sheepskin flexibility makes it ideal for manufacturing pants, skirts, wallets, and other such items. In addition, people frequently choose it for footwear and upholstery.

11. Sheepskin Leather: How to Care for It

When purchasing sheepskin leather items, you should begin taking care of them as soon as possible and before using them. To guard your sheepskin against deterioration, you must use a leather protectant solution. However, you want to utilize a solution made especially for sensitive leather. To handle this, however, you should do so with a professional. If you opt to paint it yourself, use a spray-on protectant and avoid rubbing it to prevent color running.

11.1 How to Clean Sheepskin Leather?

Cleaning sheepskin leather takes a gentle touch. Harsh methods can ruin its texture, darken the leather, or damage the wool lining. Follow these easy tips to keep your jacket looking fresh and lasting longer.

Use a clean, dry, and soft white cloth to wipe away light stains.
Avoid scrubbing or using water; it can stain or darken the sheepskin.
For tough stains or heavy dirt, contact a leather cleaning professional.
Apply a sheepskin-specific leather conditioner to prevent cracking or drying.
Always test the conditioner in a hidden spot before applying it fully.
Watch for any color transfer or darkening within the first hour.
Never store sheepskin in plastic, as it can trap moisture and damage the wool.
Keep it out of direct sunlight and store it in a cool, dry place.
Use a padded hanger to help maintain its shape and structure.

Taking a few extra steps can go a long way in preserving the look and feel of your sheepskin leather. Treat it right, and it’ll last for years.

12. The Advantages of Sheepskin Leather

Sheepskin leather offers a luxurious, lightweight, and supple feel that adds to wearable comfort because it is soft and pleasant to the touch.

Such things as sheepskin upholstery, clothing such as jackets, coats, and gloves will be perfect for summer and winter due to their breathable qualities inherent in their hollow fibers. Thus, it will continue to be cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Leather made from sheepskin is also flame-resistant. This indicates that it contains a feature that guards against any combustible occurrences.

The basic component, lanolin, which is also present in human skin, is another distinguishing feature of sheepskin leather. This ingredient aids in the healing of sensitive or irritated skin.

Interestingly, lanolin, which is naturally found in sheepskin, gives it a self-cleaning or anti-bacterial quality when freshly hung out to dry in the open air.

13. The Disadvantages of Sheepskin Leather

Sheepskin leather may be supple and soft, comfortable and cool, but it does have a propensity to stretch with time. Therefore, it is best to get a sheepskin leather jacket that fits exceptionally well because otherwise, the sheepskin would become sagging with time.

Sheepskin is not as resistant to harm of any kind, such as discoloration or tearing, due to its low weight and thin nature. This implies that further upkeep and care are needed to keep sheepskin leather in good shape.

As previously said, sheepskin leather is not as durable as other types of leather. Therefore, it's important to avoid overusing your sheepskin leather jacket, especially in tough weather.

Abuse of it, such as using it too regularly, could hasten its demise. Although sheepskin leather has a very slight ability to repel moisture or rain, it is not completely waterproof. So it's possible that your sheepskin leather jacket won't hold up to bad weather.

14. Summarize

Based on the foregoing, we may conclude that sheepskin leather has a special suppleness and a luxury appearance and feel unmatched by anything else. Sheepskin leather refers to the hide and fleece of the sheep or lamb and is distinguished by its distinctive appearance, weight, and grain. If not, it is simply referred to as sheep or lamb leather.

It's crucial to be aware of the many benefits and drawbacks that work for and against this opulent leather kind, just as there are distinctive characteristics of sheepskin leather that aid in its identification.

Therefore, you will be aware of the upkeep needed to maintain a sheepskin leather jacket or other item you adore, looking respectable the next time you see one.

Sheepskin leather is not completely waterproof, despite the fact that it is known to fend off moisture and some rain. All things considered, sheepskin leather is strongly advised for anyone looking for an opulent look, feel, and comfort.

Learn more about leather here: Leather 101 - The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Leather

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