Types of Letterman Jackets – A Complete Guide

Letterman jackets or varsity jackets show school pride, achievement and athletic success. Originally worn by high school and college athletes, they’ve now become a popular fashion choice. These jackets let you show your school spirit. You can add personal touches with chenille patches, varsity letters and custom designs. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of letterman jackets and the many ways you can make them your own.

Goat Suede Leather Bomber Jacket

Wool & Cowhide Leather Letterman Jacket

Cotton Bomber Varsity Jacket

Sheep Leather Bomber Jacket

Satin Bomber Jacket

Denim Letterman Jacket

Shop Custom Varsity Jackets

Letterman Jacket’s Style:

1. Classic Letterman Jacket: The classic varsity jacket featuring a wool body and leather sleeves. The combination of wool and leather provides warmth and durability, making it a great choice for colder weather.
2. Hooded Varsity Jacket: The hooded version of the letterman jacket adds a casual twist to the traditional look. With a zipper or snap closure and a comfortable hood, this style blends fashion with functionality. Perfect for those who want a more relaxed vibe while maintaining the custom varsity appeal.
3. Retro Letterman Jacket: Inspired by designs from past decades, typically the 80s or earlier. It often features a shirt collar instead of the more modern ribbed or hooded styles. A great choice for people who love classic fashion and want a jacket that brings back the varsity style of earlier times.
4. Full-Zip Letterman Jacket: The full-zip letterman jacket is a more modern take on the traditional design. With a zipper running the entire length of the front, it offers a sleek and practical option for easy wear. This version is popular for its convenience and stylish look, while still maintaining the iconic varsity feel.

Types of Materials:

1. Wool Body with Leather Sleeves: The most traditional type of varsity jacket. Typically made with a wool body and cowhide leather sleeves. This combination provides durability and a sharp look that has stood the test of time. Many high school and college athletes choose this style for its classic appeal.
2. Wool Body with Faux Leather Sleeves: For those seeking an alternative to leather, the wool body with faux leather sleeves is a great option. This style offers the same traditional look but uses vinyl instead of real leather. Making it more affordable and animal-friendly.
3. All-Wool Letterman Jacket: As the name suggests, this jacket features an all-melton wool blend. Giving a warm and cozy feel. The wool letterman jacket is perfect for colder climates and offers more flexible fit than leather-sleeved versions.
4. Cotton Letterman Jacket: A lighter option, the cotton letterman jacket is perfect for warmer climates or casual wear. Made entirely of cotton fleece fabric, it provides a breathable and comfortable alternative while still maintaining the varsity look.
5. Synthetic Letterman Jacket: Made from materials like polyester satin, poly cotton twill and soft-shell. The synthetic letterman jacket is lightweight, easy to maintain, and often more affordable. It’s a practical choice for those who want the varsity style without the cost or upkeep of wool and leather.

Jacket’s Decorations Options:

1. Chenille Letterman Jacket: This jacket features chenille patches and embroidery, creating a soft, raised texture. Schools often display initials, mascots or achievements using chenille letters and logos. This design makes it a popular choice for custom letterman jackets.
2. Embroidered Letterman Jacket: This style features personalized embroidery with designs and names stitched directly onto the jacket. Allowing for a highly customized look. The embroidered letterman jacket offers a highly customized look and is a great way to showcase school pride or team spirit.
3. Felt Letterman Jacket: Featuring letters and symbols made from felt material, this jacket gives a smooth, classic finish. People often add felt patches and letters to the chest or sleeves, giving the jacket a clean and traditional look.
4. Printed Letterman Jacket: A modern alternative to embroidered or chenille patches. The printed letterman jacket displays designs printed directly onto the fabric. This style offers a sleek and contemporary look. Perfect for those who want something a bit different from the traditional design.

Letterman Jacket with Back Embroidery

Letterman Jacket with Patches

Letterman Jacket Chenille Patch

Select By Purpose:

1. High School Letterman Jacket: The school jacket is perhaps the most recognized version, traditionally worn by high school athletes. These jackets often display the school’s colors, mascot, and varsity letters that represent achievements in sports or academics.
2. College Letterman Jacket: Similar to the high school version. University athletes or students wear the college jacket to showcase their pride. Featuring the college name, mascot or sports team logo, it’s a must-have for college students.
3. Athletic Letterman Jacket: Specifically designed for sports teams. Often including the team’s name and numbers that represent individual accomplishments. Athletes choose this style to proudly wear their achievements.
4. Corporate Letterman Jacket: Businesses, clubs and organizations create their own custom letterman jackets. They feature company logos or slogans, making them a great choice for corporate events, team building and promotional purposes.

Other Variations:

1. Women’s Letterman Jacket: Women choose this jacket for its tailored fit, comfort, and style. It features slimmer cuts and a more feminine design, offering a flattering look.
2. Youth Letterman Jacket: Younger students or athletes wear the youth letterman jacket to show off their school spirit. It’s smaller in size and designed specifically for them.
3. Men’s Letterman Jacket: Men often select jackets with a classic or shirt-style collar. These have ribbed cuffs and waistbands for a secure and comfortable fit.

Letterman jackets have evolved beyond symbols of athletic achievement. People of all ages now wear them to express school pride, personal style and team spirit. Whether you like classic or retro styles, leather sleeves or vinyl, Clothoo has the perfect letterman jacket for everyone.