How to Pick the Best Leather Types for Biker Jackets

Cowhide Leather

For decades, people have been wearing a cowhide leather motorcycle jacket. It is heavy, strong, and shouts durability. Cowhide is frequently said to be the best leather for biker jackets since it can take a lot of wear and tear.

Of course, it’s not all sunshine—it can feel stiff when new, and you’ll need to break it in. But once it molds to you, it’s the kind of jacket that feels like armor. That’s why it’s a top choice in our best motorcycle jackets for riders roundup.

Goatskin Leather

Goatskin doesn't always get the attention it deserves. It's hard to overlook the goatskin leather jacket advantages. It's lighter than cowhide, flexible, and has a grain pattern that makes it look different. Goatskin is the center ground for me. It's a terrific choice for everyday wear because it protects you without being too heavy. It also tends to show up in trendy leather jackets because they go with a lot of various ensembles, from jeans to layered looks.

Lambskin Leather

Lambskin is the soft one in the family. This makes it a favorite for fashion-forward designs and types of leather jackets for women. But it’s not as durable as cowhide or goatskin. Personally, I think lambskin shines when you’re going for style over heavy-duty riding. You’ll even see it pop up in our complete guide to biker leather jackets when the conversation leans more toward fashion than road safety.

Buffalo Leather

Buffalo leather has a rough charm that riders who desire their gear to feel as tough as it looks will love. Buffalo hides are thicker than most others and can take a lot of wear and tear, which is why a buffalo motorcycle jacket can feel like a tank. The grain pattern on each piece of buffalo hide is a little different, so no two jackets are exactly the same. A huge part of the appeal is the rustic, daring feel. Buffalo leather is about as tough as it gets for harsh rides, as long as you're content with a jacket that is a little heavier.

Horsehide Leather

Horsehide is one of those leathers that feels almost old-school, and for good reason. In the early days of motorcycling, it was a go-to material. It’s dense, extremely durable, and naturally resistant to water due to the oils in the hide.

Over time, horsehide develops a deep patina that adds character. It’s not as common today as cowhide, but riders who want something unique and timeless still seek it out. The trade-off is that it can feel a bit stiff at first, but if you’re patient, it rewards you with incredible longevity.

Kangaroo Leather

It might not be the first type of leather you think of, but kangaroo leather is gaining popularity, especially with riders, as it offers lightweight and durable options. And believe it or not, kangaroo leather has one of the best strength-to-weight ratios of any hide. Because kangaroo leather is so supple, a jacket made with this type of leather will conform closer to the body and allow greater mobility, which is especially important for long rides.

Additionally, higher-end leather will also be more breathable than heavier types of leather. This makes the kangaroo leather jacket great for warm riding. The only downside is that they are often more expensive than cowhide leather. However, for those riders looking to invest in high-end leathers, it may be well worth it.