By Private Label Leather · Published · 5 min read
Bomber and varsity jackets look similar: both are short jackets with rib-knit collars, cuffs and hems. The differences are in where they came from, what they are made of and how they close.
Bomber vs varsity jacket at a glance
| Bomber jacket | Varsity jacket | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Military flight jackets (WWI–WWII, then the MA-1) | American school and college sport (from 1865) |
| Closure | Zip | Snap buttons |
| Body | Leather, nylon, satin or suede | Wool blend, sometimes fleece or denim |
| Sleeves | Same material as the body | Contrasting, traditionally leather |
| Trims | Plain rib knit, often one colour | Striped rib knit in team colours |
| Decoration | Minimal; utility sleeve pocket | Chenille letters, patches, names |
| Colours | Olive, black, navy, brown | Two or more team colours |
| Look | Utility, minimal | Sporty, collegiate, statement |
The quick way to tell them apart
Look at the front and the sleeves: a zip and matching sleeves means bomber; snaps and contrasting sleeves means varsity.
Are bomber jackets warm?
It depends on the build. A leather bomber with a quilted lining or a shearling collar is warm enough for cold weather; an unlined nylon or satin bomber is a light layer for spring and autumn. The rib-knit cuffs and hem help by trapping warm air.
Is a bomber jacket good for winter?
A lined leather or padded nylon bomber works for most winter days, especially layered over a sweater. For very cold climates, a shearling aviator or a longer coat is warmer, because a bomber leaves the hips exposed.
Is a varsity jacket warmer than a bomber?
A wool varsity jacket with a quilted lining is about as warm as a lined leather bomber. Wool keeps you warm even when damp; leather blocks wind better.
Which should your brand make?
Bombers suit minimalist, utility and outerwear ranges and sell across seasons. Varsity jackets suit streetwear, collegiate and team ranges, and their colours and letters make them easy to personalise. Many brands carry both. See custom bomber jackets and custom varsity jackets.