How to Tell if a Shearling Jacket is Real?

How to Tell if a Shearling Jacket is Real?

How to Tell if a Shearling Jacket is Real | 2025 Guide

Women Shearling jackets are prized for their warmth, durability, and luxurious feel. However, with the rise of high-quality faux shearling alternatives, it can be difficult to distinguish between genuine and synthetic materials. If you're wondering how to tell if a shearling jacket is real, this guide will walk you through key identification methods to ensure you're making an informed purchase.

1. Check the Texture and Feel

A real Faux fur shearling jacket is made from the hide of a sheep or lamb with the wool still attached. Here’s how to differentiate it by touch:

  • Genuine Shearling: Soft, warm, and has a natural, slightly irregular texture.

  • Faux Shearling: Feels more synthetic, uniform, and sometimes overly plush, lacking the natural imperfections of real wool.

2. Look at the Backing Material

Flip the hem of your jacket to inspect the underside:

  • Real Shearling: The wool is attached to suede or leather on the underside.

  • Faux Shearling: Often attached to a synthetic fabric backing, such as polyester or microfiber.

3. Test for Warmth and Insulation

Genuine shearling provides exceptional insulation and breathability, making it ideal for cold weather. To test:

  • Wear the jacket indoors for a few minutes—real shearling regulates temperature and doesn’t overheat quickly.

  • Fake shearling might feel either too hot or provide little insulation.

4. Inspect the Edges and Seams

Real Aviator shearling jackets often have raw edges where the leather and wool meet. Signs of authenticity include:

  • Unfinished edges with natural variations.

  • Faux shearling jackets typically have neatly stitched, manufactured seams.

5. Perform a Burn Test (Use with Caution)

If you have a small, hidden piece of shearling (like an interior seam), you can conduct a burn test:

  • Real Wool: Smells like burning hair and turns to ash.

  • Synthetic Wool: Smells like burning plastic and melts into a sticky residue.

6. Price and Brand Reputation

Genuine shearling jackets are expensive due to the craftsmanship and materials used. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always buy from reputable brands and check for:

  • Authenticity labels and certificates.

  • Brand history and customer reviews.

7. Water Absorption Test

Real shearling absorbs water naturally, whereas faux shearling repels moisture. To test:

  • Place a small drop of water on the wool.

  • Genuine shearling absorbs moisture gradually, while synthetic fibers cause the water to bead up.

FAQs

1. Is real shearling warmer than faux shearling?

Yes, real shearling has superior insulation and breathability compared to faux shearling, which may trap heat unevenly.

2. Does real shearling have a smell?

Yes, genuine shearling has a mild, natural leather scent, while faux shearling often has a synthetic or plastic-like odor.

3. Can real shearling get wet?

While real shearling can handle light moisture, prolonged exposure to water can damage the material. Always dry it properly if it gets wet.

4. How long does a real shearling jacket last?

With proper care, a genuine shearling sheepskin jacket can last decades, unlike synthetic alternatives, which degrade faster.

5. Is real shearling eco-friendly?

Shearling is a byproduct of the meat industry and is biodegradable, making it more sustainable than plastic-based faux alternatives.

Conclusion

Identifying a real Bomber shearling jacket involves examining texture, backing material, warmth, and authenticity markers. Investing in a genuine shearling jacket ensures durability, superior warmth, and timeless style. Before purchasing, always check reputable brands and look for the key differences mentioned above to make a smart and stylish investment in 2025.

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