Biker vs Bomber vs Aviator Jackets: Styles Explained
Biker, bomber and aviator are the three leather jacket styles most people picture first, and each one has a distinct shape, mood and set of details. They are not interchangeable: a biker is sharp and fitted, a bomber is relaxed and easy, and an aviator is built for warmth. Knowing the differences makes it far easier to choose the one you will actually wear.
This guide explains how to recognise each style, who it suits, how it should fit and how to wear it, with examples from our current men's and women's ranges.
The three styles at a glance
| Biker jacket | Bomber jacket | Aviator jacket | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature detail | Asymmetric (off-centre) zip, wide lapels | Ribbed collar, cuffs and hem | Shearling collar and lining, often buckle straps |
| Fit | Close, cropped at the waist | Fuller body gathered at the hem | Roomier to fit the lining |
| Mood | Edgy, rock'n'roll | Casual, sporty, minimal | Rugged, vintage, cold-weather |
| Warmth | Three-season | Three-season | Winter |
| Best for | Nights out, black-on-black outfits | Everyday wear, smart-casual | Cold commutes, weekends away |
The biker jacket
How to recognise it
The classic biker (also called a moto or motorcycle jacket) has an asymmetric front zip that runs from the hem to one shoulder, wide notched lapels that can be snapped down, zipped cuffs and several zip pockets. Many have a belt at the waist. The cut is close and finishes around the belt line, which is what gives a biker its sharp silhouette.
There is also a cleaner variation – the café racer – with a centre zip and a small stand or snap-tab collar instead of lapels.
Who it suits
Anyone who wants maximum attitude. Bikers look strongest with slim or straight trousers and boots, and they suit both men and women equally well.
How it should fit
Snug through the chest and shoulders, sleeves to the wrist bone, hem at the belt. Too much room and it loses its shape.
Our biker jackets
- Men's Black Sheepskin Leather Biker Jacket with Lapel-Style Collar – asymmetric zip, belted zip cuffs, slim fit.
- Men's Sheepskin Leather Biker Jacket with Stand Collar – a café-racer-style variation.
- Women's Black Cowhide Leather Biker Jacket with Belted Hem – structured cowhide, asymmetric zip.
- Shop all men's biker jackets and women's biker jackets.
The bomber jacket
How to recognise it
Bombers have a centre zip, a ribbed or stand collar, and – most importantly – ribbed cuffs and a ribbed waistband that gather the jacket at the hips. That gathering creates a slightly blousy body and a cropped, sporty shape. Details are usually minimal: a couple of side pockets and perhaps a sleeve zip pocket.
Who it suits
The bomber is the easiest leather jacket to wear. It works over a T-shirt, hoodie, shirt or fine knit and with jeans, chinos or joggers. If you want one leather jacket that does not feel "too much", a bomber is usually the answer.
How it should fit
Comfortable through the body with the ribbed hem sitting at or just below the waist. A bomber is more forgiving than a biker, so if you are between sizes, the larger size usually works well.
Our bomber jackets
- Men's Black Sheepskin Leather Bomber Jacket with Stand Collar – regular fit, ribbed cuffs, black or brown.
- Men's Black Suede Leather Bomber Jacket with Leather Sleeves – a mixed-texture take.
- Women's Black Cowhide Leather Bomber Jacket with Rib-Knit Cuffs
- Women's Sheepskin Suede Bomber Jacket
The aviator jacket
How to recognise it
Aviator jackets take their cue from cold-weather flying jackets. Look for a large shearling collar, often with buckle straps to close it at the throat, a shearling lining or trim, and a heavier, chunkier body. Cuffs and hems are often trimmed in shearling too.
Who it suits
Anyone who feels the cold or likes a rugged, vintage look. An aviator is a winter jacket first, so it is the one to choose if you want leather that genuinely keeps you warm from November to March.
How it should fit
Aviators are cut with extra room to accommodate the lining. Do not size up unless you plan to wear heavy knits underneath; check our size guide.
Our aviator-style jackets
- Men's Black Shearling Leather Jacket with Buckle Collar – buckle collar with shearling trim, front zip, black or brown.
- Women's Black Shearling Leather Jacket with Fur Collar – aviator-inspired, shearling lining and cuffs.
- Women's Black Shearling Leather Jacket with Buckle Collar
- See all men's shearling jackets and women's shearling jackets.
Other styles worth knowing
- Hooded leather jackets – a casual, streetwear-friendly option with an attached or inner hood. See men's hooded leather jackets.
- Leather shirt jackets – cut like an overshirt with a shirt collar; ideal for layering. See men's leather shirt jackets.
- Leather blazers – tailored lapels for smarter outfits. See our blazer collection.
- Trucker jackets – a denim-jacket shape with chest pockets, in leather or suede.
Which style should you choose?
- Choose a biker if you want the most iconic, statement leather jacket and like a close fit.
- Choose a bomber if you want the most versatile, easy-to-wear everyday option.
- Choose an aviator if warmth matters most and you want one jacket to replace a winter coat.
Whichever you pick, every jacket is genuine leather, available in sizes XXS–5XL, with free shipping to the UK, US and Canada (2–7 business days handling, then 5–7 days delivery, about 7–14 days in total) and a free prepaid return label for any return within 30 days, for any reason.
For a wider look at leather jacket styles, see types of leather jackets and their benefits, and for sizing advice read how a leather jacket should fit.
FAQs: biker vs bomber vs aviator jackets
What is the difference between a biker and a bomber jacket?
A biker has an asymmetric zip, lapels and a close, cropped fit. A bomber has a centre zip and ribbed collar, cuffs and hem, giving a more relaxed, sporty shape.
Is an aviator jacket the same as a shearling jacket?
Not exactly. An aviator is a style – usually with a big shearling collar and buckle straps. Shearling is the material, which is also used for coats, vests and trucker jackets.
Which leather jacket style is most versatile?
For most people, a black or brown bomber. It works over almost anything and with smart or casual trousers.
Which style is warmest?
The aviator, thanks to its shearling collar and lining. Bikers and bombers are best for spring, autumn and milder winter days.
Can women wear biker and bomber jackets?
Absolutely – both are wardrobe staples for women. Women's cuts are shaped through the waist; see our women's leather jackets.
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