Choosing Between Genuine and Faux Leather Bomber Jackets (UK Edition)

Few items in menswear exude confidence, history and timelessness like the leather bomber jacket. Once the uniform of brave fighter pilots, today it’s a staple for modern wardrobes across the UK. But when you’re out to shop bomber jacket styles you’ll soon face one big question: real leather or faux leather?

With fashion tech evolving and sustainability conversations changing, more shoppers in UK 2025 are wondering if synthetic options can match the real deal. This article breaks it down durability, comfort, cost, maintenance and ethics all while introducing some top bomber jackets to consider.

Let’s find your perfect Men's Bomber Jacket whether you’re into classic pilot style or modern urban.

1. The Leather Bomber Jacket Dilemma

Leather bomber jackets have long been the symbol of rebellion, masculinity and understated luxury. From WWII military uniforms they were built to withstand high altitudes and cold cockpits. Today their appeal isn’t just nostalgia but also versatility they’re as at home over denim in Camden as over chinos in Shoreditch.

But here’s the catch: not all bomber jackets are created equal. With real leather you get authenticity, longevity and texture. With faux leather you get affordability, animal-free materials and often easier maintenance.

And that’s where the real vs faux debate begins. Let’s dive in.

2. What Is Real Leather?

Real leather, often made from cowhide, is prized for its natural look, toughness and luxurious feel. Depending on the grade it can be full-grain, top-grain or split leather. Each layer brings unique characteristics:

• Full-grain leather ages beautifully and retains natural imperfections perfect for those who value uniqueness.
• Top-grain leather is more polished but still durable.
• Suede leather, made from the underside of the hide, is soft, breathable and great for colder months.

Take for example the Men’s Brown Suede Leather Bomber Jacket. Its velvety finish and supple construction give you the luxury you’d expect from high-end outerwear. This isn’t just a jacket it’s a wearable legacy.

Real leather also gets a patina over time a sign of authenticity that synthetic materials can’t replicate.

3. What Is Faux Leather?

Faux leather, sometimes called PU leather (polyurethane) or PVC leather, is a synthetic material that mimics the look and feel of real leather without using animal hides. In UK 2025, demand for vegan-friendly clothing bomber jackets has gone through the roof due to ethical and environmental awareness.

Pros of faux leather:

• Cheaper upfront
• Animal friendly and appeals to vegans
• Waterproof and often easier to clean

But faux leather cracks over time, isn’t breathable and doesn’t get that lovely patina real leather lovers love.

At first glance it looks the same but it lacks depth, grain variation and smell of the real thing. For those shopping based on aesthetic alone faux leather might work. But for those who want an heirloom garment it might fall short.

4. Durability – Which One Lasts Longer?

Durability is where real leather shines. Treated properly a male leather bomber jacket can last decades – even look better with time. Real leather is resistant to tearing, abrasion and general wear especially if conditioned occasionally.

Faux leather? Not so much. It starts to crack or peel after a couple of years especially in colder climates or with frequent use. Okay for short term fashion but not built for the long haul.

Consider the Men's Top Gun Maverick G-1 Flight Bomber Jacket. Made from high-grade leather it’s not just a nod to military aviation history it’s built to withstand everyday life. Whether you’re riding your motorcycle or heading into the office its rugged durability keeps pace.

5. Comfort & Fit – Which Feels Better?

When it comes to comfort real leather, jackets adapt to your body over time. They become suppler, more fitted and more “you”. The natural fibers allow for better breathability making it more comfortable across seasons.

Faux leather jackets being synthetic lack that adjustability. They can feel stiff especially in cold temperatures and may cause sweating in warmer weather due to poor airflow.

Looking for comfort and warmth? Try the Men's Suede Leather Hooded Bomber Jacket. With its soft suede finish and functional hood, it’s cozy elegance without sacrificing style. Great for unpredictable UK weather.

6. Aesthetics & Styling Differences

On the surface faux leather can look like real leather but it’s in the details where the differences show. Real leather has a grainy texture, natural imperfections and a matte finish that gets deeper with age.

Faux leather can look too shiny or uniform. It might look good on day one but doesn’t evolve visually like real leather does.

The Men’s Genuine Leather Aviator A2 Military Pilot Aviation Bomber Jacket in Distressed Brown is a perfect example. It has subtle color and grain variations giving it an authentic, vintage look that can’t be replicated synthetically.

Whether you’re after that classic leather bomber jacket women’s look or a rugged, masculine style the visual character of real leather speaks louder.

7. Maintenance & Cleaning

Faux leather wins for low maintenance. A damp cloth and mild soap can clean most surface dirt. No need for conditioners or expensive leather care products.

Real leather requires more attention. It needs to be conditioned regularly to stay moist and prevent cracking. It should also be kept away from prolonged water exposure.

The Men's M-422A Leather Flight Bomber Jacket is a high-end jacket that requires some maintenance but pays off in longevity and character. Consider this an investment that, when looked after, increases in value both aesthetically and personally.

8. Cost & Value for Money

So, what justifies the higher price of real leather?

Why are bomber jackets so expensive?

Real leather involves ethical sourcing, tanning processes, hand craftsmanship, and quality control. Faux leather being factory made from plastic composites is quicker and cheaper to produce.

But when you look at cost per wear, real leather usually wins. A jacket worn over 10 years will cost less per use than one replaced every 2 years.

The Men's M-422A Leather Flight Bomber Jacket may seem like a luxury buy but its heirloom quality and timeless appeal makes it a smart long-term investment.

9. Ethical & Environmental Considerations

This is where opinions divide.

·         Faux leather is cruelty-free but often petroleum-based and non-biodegradable.

·    Real leather is biodegradable but involves animal hides and environmental toll from tanning processes.

In UK 2025, shoppers are getting more aware. Many opt for responsibly sourced leather or eco-certified synthetics. The key is to avoid fast fashion and choose well-made pieces, whatever the material.

If you’re looking for a black mens aviator jacket from an ethical brand, always check for sustainability certifications, local production and transparency.

10. Final Recommendation – Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s the bottom line:

Choose real leather if:

·         You want longevity, authenticity and character

·         You’re okay with a bit of maintenance

·         You want something that ages well and feels yours

Choose faux leather if:

·         You’re on a budget

·         You prefer vegan or cruelty-free fashion

·         You want something easy to care for and short-term trendy

For UK shoppers where the climate is mild and fashion consciousness is high, both have a place. But for timelessness, real leather still wins.

Bonus: Best Brands for Bomber Jackets – Stylish & Functional

Looking to buy bomber jacket with confidence? Here are the brands in the UK 2025 scene:

·         Alpha Industries – Real military bombers

·         Belstaff – British made premium leather outerwear

·         AllSaints – Modern edge with luxurious materials

·         Schott NYC – American heritage meets global street style

·         Your Brand – Browse our range of suede, aviator, and flight jackets, all designed with quality and style in mind.

Conclusion

Whether you’re into high flying military nostalgia, modern streetwear or just looking for the best bomber jacket for men, the material is key.

In a world of choice, going deeper into materials, finishes, ethical concerns and styling needs means your decision isn’t just smart – it’s sustainable, stylish and satisfying.

Ready to buy bomber jacket styles that fit your life? Browse our curated leather bombers and find your perfect fit.