Wool College Varsity Jacket
The Wool College Varsity Jacket is the original construction — a melton wool body with leather sleeves. Almost every varsity jacket ever made used this combination, and the reason is not tradition for its own sake: melton wool does something no other fabric does.
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Material: Melton wool blend body with leather sleeves
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Fit: Regular fit
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Closure: Front snap buttons
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Color: Two-tone college colours
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Care: Brush the wool, wipe the leather sleeves, dry naturally away from heat
What melton wool is
Melton is wool that has been woven, then milled — agitated in water so the fibres shrink and lock together — and finally pressed. The result is a dense, firm cloth with a smooth face and no visible weave, which does not fray when cut and holds its shape rather than draping.
That firmness is what gives a varsity jacket its structure. A jacket made from ordinary woven wool would collapse; melton stands. It is also naturally wind-resistant and warm for its thickness, and it takes a snap placket cleanly because it does not pucker.
Why leather sleeves
Sleeves absorb almost all the abrasion on a jacket — desks, bag straps, door frames, car doors — where body panels barely wear at all. Putting leather only on the sleeves is a repair-cost decision from a century ago that happens to look right.
The leather will crease at the elbow and pick up a slight sheen along the forearm within a season. That is the part of the jacket that ages visibly.
Fit, care and honest notes
Regular fit with genuine room for a knit or hoodie at your usual size — that is what the shape was designed for. Rib hem at the waist. Size down one for closer over a tee.
Two materials, two care routines: brush and spot clean the wool, wipe the leather sleeves and condition them once or twice a year. Never machine wash the jacket, and use a leather specialist rather than a standard dry cleaner for a full clean.
Made to order, XS to 5XL and custom
Made after you order in XS to 5XL, plus Custom — chest, shoulder, sleeve and back length. If you want lettering or patches applied, ask before ordering. Free shipping, secure checkout, and honest pricing.
Shop Related Styles at Leather Outlet
Related: Men Varsity Jackets for all-leather versions, Varsity Jackets for the full range, Men Leather Jackets for leather outerwear, and Bomber Leather Jackets for a zip-front shape. Browse at Leather Outlet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is melton wool?
Wool that has been milled and pressed so the fibres lock together, producing a dense firm cloth that holds its shape and does not fray.
Why not make the whole jacket leather?
Wool breathes far better, so it is more comfortable indoors and in mild weather. All-leather is more wind-resistant but warmer and heavier.
Are the sleeves real leather?
Yes — real leather sleeves on a wool blend body, the traditional construction.
Will a hoodie fit underneath?
Yes at your normal size. Layering room is part of the varsity cut.
Can I machine wash it?
No. Brush and spot clean the wool, wipe the leather. Use a leather specialist for a full clean.
Can I add lettering?
Ask before ordering and we will confirm what we can apply.
Do you offer custom sizing?
Yes — XS to 5XL plus Custom to your own measurements.
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