Varsity, bomber and biker jackets are often mixed up, but each has its own shape, history and best use. Here is how to tell them apart and which one suits you.
Varsity jacket
A varsity jacket, also called a letterman jacket, has a wool body with leather sleeves, ribbed cuffs, collar and hem, and a button or snap front. It started as sports team wear in American colleges. It is a casual, layerable jacket that works with jeans and sneakers. See our varsity jackets.
Bomber jacket
A bomber has a short, fitted body, a zip front, and ribbed cuffs and hem. The shape comes from military flight jackets, such as the MA-1. Bombers are lightweight to mid-weight and sit at the waist, which makes them easy to wear with most outfits. Browse our bomber jackets.
Biker jacket
A biker jacket, often called a moto or Brando-style jacket, has an asymmetric zip, a lapel collar, and usually belts or zipped pockets. It is the classic leather jacket silhouette and tends to be the most structured of the three. Explore our men's biker jackets.
Quick comparison
- Most casual: varsity jacket.
- Most versatile: bomber jacket.
- Most structured and classic: biker jacket.
How to choose
Pick a varsity jacket for a sporty, streetwear look. Pick a bomber if you want one jacket that works with smart and casual outfits. Pick a biker jacket for a sharper, more traditional leather look. Whichever you choose, check the material in the product description, since some styles use wool, cotton or faux materials alongside leather.