Black Bomber Style Leather Varsity Jacket
This one sits between the two shapes deliberately. It has the varsity's ribbed collar, cuffs and hem and its angled hip pockets, but closes with a bomber's front zip rather than a snap placket. That single swap makes it warmer and more practical than a true varsity while keeping the proportions that make a varsity comfortable.
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Material: Real leather
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Fit: Regular varsity fit
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Closure: Front zip with ribbed collar
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Color: Black
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Care: Dry cloth, condition twice a year, keep away from direct heat
Zip rather than snaps
A snap placket is what traditionally defines a varsity, and it has one real weakness: snaps leave small gaps between fasteners, so wind gets through. A zip seals the front completely.
For a jacket you actually wear through autumn and winter rather than on mild evenings, that difference matters more than the tradition does. You give up the flat placket front and the ability to wear it open with the placket hanging straight — if you want those, the snap-front versions are in our Men Varsity Jackets range.
The zip is metal tooth on a reinforced tape, stitched so the pull load goes into the seam rather than into a single layer of hide.
What stays varsity
The proportions, which are the real point. A varsity is cut roomier through the body than a modern bomber, with a slightly longer sleeve and a deeper armhole, so it goes over a hoodie without pulling. The ribbed collar, cuffs and hem seal the wrists and waist, and the angled hip pockets stay usable seated or standing.
The rib is a dense knit that recovers rather than stretching out — slack ribbing is how a jacket like this loses its shape for good.
Build
Real leather throughout with double-stitched seams and reinforcement at the shoulders. Interior pocket, and a smooth lining so the jacket slides on over knitwear. The back is left plain, so lettering or a patch can be added later by a tailor.
Fit and styling
Regular varsity fit, roomier than a modern bomber by design. Take your normal size — room for a hoodie is already built into the pattern, so avoid sizing up unless you want it noticeably loose.
Jeans and trainers is the obvious pairing. In plain black it also works with chinos and boots, which a two-tone varsity does not. See our Men Bomber Leather Jackets or Men Leather Jackets.
Sizes and made to order
Each jacket is cut after you order. Standard sizes are XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL and 5XL, plus Custom — send chest, waist, sleeve and back length after checkout at no extra charge. Free worldwide shipping and secure checkout are included.
Shop Related Styles at Leather Outlet
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a varsity or a bomber?
Varsity proportions and trims with a bomber zip front. It is a deliberate hybrid rather than one or the other.
Why a zip instead of snaps?
A zip seals the front completely where snaps leave gaps, which makes the jacket warmer and more practical in real weather.
Is it real leather?
Yes, real leather throughout.
Can I wear a hoodie underneath?
Yes. The varsity fit is roomier than a modern bomber and already allows for it.
Can I add lettering or a patch?
Yes. The back is left plain and the hide is heavy enough for a tailor to stitch onto.
What size should I order?
Your normal size. Avoid sizing up unless you want it noticeably loose. Custom sizing is free.
How do I care for it?
Dry cloth, keep away from direct heat, condition twice a year. Never machine wash or dry clean.
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