Why Fabric Choice Matters in School Jackets

Designing a custom school jacket is exciting—but the fabric you choose is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It’s not just about appearance. The material affects how the jacket feels, how long it lasts, and how well it represents your school or team. At Jacket Authority, we help you weigh your options so the final jacket checks every box.

Wool: Timeless, Warm, and Traditional

Wool is the backbone of the classic varsity jacket. It’s thick, warm, and has a rich texture that just feels right. Ideal for cooler weather, wool holds up over time and gives your jacket that iconic, old-school letterman look. It also pairs beautifully with chenille patches and embroidery, which stand out sharply against the wool background.
If your school values tradition or you’re designing jackets for seniors, athletes, or marching bands, wool is a solid and reliable choice.

Leather Sleeves: Premium Feel, Long-Term Value

For that extra touch of luxury and durability, real leather sleeves are the way to go. When paired with a wool body, leather sleeves give the jacket a polished, high-end feel. They also age well, gaining character over time rather than wearing out.
These are the jackets that students hold onto even after graduation. While more expensive, leather is an investment in quality and appearance—especially for milestone years or recognition jackets.

Faux Leather: Smart Style Without the Cost

Real leather isn’t always in the budget, and that’s okay. Faux leather is a great alternative. It delivers a similar sleek look, is more resistant to moisture, and is easier to maintain. It’s also more lightweight, which some students prefer for everyday wear.
Faux leather is ideal for schools ordering in bulk or looking to balance budget and style. It still looks great and pairs nicely with wool or fleece-lined jackets.

Cotton and Cotton Blends: Light, Casual, and Custom-Friendly

Not every custom school jackets needs to be heavy or insulated. Cotton and cotton-blend fabrics are perfect for more casual school jackets—especially hoodie or zip-up styles. They’re soft, breathable, and versatile enough for spring or mild weather.
Plus, cotton jackets are highly customizable. Whether you’re printing logos, adding embroidery, or going for a two-tone color scheme, cotton makes it easy.

Polyester: Modern, Lightweight, and Durable

Polyester is a top choice for active students. If your jacket is meant for sports teams, clubs, or travel, polyester is practical. It resists wrinkles, keeps its shape, and handles wear and tear better than many other fabrics.
It’s also great for printing—especially sublimation—so you can add logos, names, or even gradient effects that stay sharp and vibrant.

Fleece: Comfort That Keeps You Warm

For schools in colder regions—or for students who just want something cozy—fleece-lined jackets are a hit. Fleece adds a soft, insulating layer without making the jacket bulky. It works well as an inner lining or even as the main outer material for casual looks.
Students love the comfort, and it’s a great way to keep jackets wearable during winter months.

Match the Material to the Design

Every material works differently when it comes to customizing. Wool and cotton are excellent for embroidery and chenille patches. Leather handles stitched logos beautifully. Polyester is ideal for heat transfer and screen printing. If you’re not sure what’s best, don’t worry—we’ll guide you based on your design and how the jackets will be worn.

Why Choose Jacket Authority?

We’ve been helping schools, teams, and organizations design jackets that people are proud to wear. Every fabric we use is carefully sourced, and every design is built with long-term quality in mind. Whether you want something traditional, sporty, or totally one-of-a-kind—we’ve got the tools and experience to bring it to life.