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From Levi’s to Lee, these Sherpa jackets stop NYC walkers in their tracks (which isn’t an easy feat)
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If you’re currently shopping for a new jacket, we’ve got a sharp recommendation: Sherpa. The best Sherpa jackets upgrade wardrobe staples, such as denim, corduroy, and work jackets, with a warm, cozy lining that fits any condition.
Sherpa is typically a heavily-piled polyester that mimics real wool (so, cruelty-free). It’s slimmer, softer, and lighter than real wool, which is why it makes such an ideal inner lining. The material offers the benefits of a comfortable fit with added protection against the cold and wind, as sherpa has excellent wind-resistance and heat retention.
Throw on a Sherpa jacket with classic sneakers and chinos for a street-style look, or dress it up a bit with Chelsea boots and slim-fit jeans for a more modern aesthetic. You can even go full western with cowboy boots and a ten-gallon hat if you’re feeling really brave.
What Are the Best Sherpa Jackets?
We’ve rounded up seven of the best sherpa jackets below from brands like Levi’s, Lee, and Flint & Tinder. Shop them all now.
Editor’s pick
Levi’s Western Suede Sherpa Trucker Jacket
As the most iconic Western wear brand in the world, it’s no surprise that Levi’s Sherpa Trucker is one of the best. This particular jacket features the exact snug fit, flattering hem, and stitching that made Levi’s trucker an icon back in 1967.
Add a sherpa lining, and you’ve got a jacket that’s as warm and comfortable as it is classic.
Flint and Tinder Shearling Ranch Hand Jacket
This Flint and Tinder jacket is somewhere between a trucker and a fleece, and we’re into it. The fit is slightly oversized and relaxed, creating a laid-back look that allows you to easily slip the jacket over sweaters when it gets a little nippy outside. And right now, it’s more than 20% off online.
Wrangler Sherpa Lined Corduroy Jacket
Wrangler is another iconic western wear brand that, although less prominent than Levi’s with the general public, is equally reliable among actual ranchers. This sherpa-lined corduroy jacket showcases the brand’s classic cowboy style and makes a great alternative to the popular denim sherpa jacket.
The body and collar are fitted with warm sherpa, and the jacket also has some subtle branding in the form of stitched Ws on the chest pockets. Although it’s a cowboy-style jacket through and through, it’s actually quite versatile and can be worn with slacks and sneakers just as easily as jeans and cowboy boots.
Lee Water Resistant Hooded Sherpa Jacket
Hooded sweatshirts are another great way to introduce some sherpa into your wardrobe. Case in point: this minimal, handsome cotton-blend hoodie from Lee.
We’re big fans of the four different color options this sweatshirt comes in, and the price — at just under $50 — is an added bonus. Currently, Lee is offering an additional 30% off with code TAKE30 at checkout.
Patagonia Classic Retro Fleece Jacket
This Patagonia faux fur-lined jacket was everywhere in the mid-2000s, but now it’s back, and honestly, better than ever. It’s a bold urban statement in the 21st century.
The outer is a recycled polyester combo, which makes for a lighter weight. The inner lining fleshes out the jacket with enough warmth to withstand nasty weather and gives the slightly large collar an eye-catching look. We recommend pairing the coat with casual yet modern outfits, such as premium jeans, a perfect Tee, and minimal sneakers or boots.
Iron & Resin Nautilus Sherpa Jacket
Another great sherpa jacket is this one from Iron & Resin. It’s slightly more high-fashion than the other options above, although still well aware of its Western roots. The most notable feature is a somewhat structured fit, which earns some style points while also making layering easier.
Iron & Resin has opted for a light brown sherpa lining, which subtly alters the look, allowing people to recognize it as a unique piece.
Quince Corduroy Trucker Jacket
The Quince jacket is on the more fitted side, but it still allows for easy layering over sweaters or flannels. We recommend rocking this jacket with jeans or crisp chinos and boots for the best effect. Due to its solid maroon color (also available in three other options) and classic cut, this jacket is one you can wear for years to come.
How We Chose the Best Sherpa Jackets
Before purchasing a new sherpa jacket, there are a few things to consider.
Fabric: There’s quite a bit of well-founded confusion around the difference between sherpa, fleece, faux-shearling, and shearling. To keep things simple, the first three (sherpa, fleece, and faux shearling) are all essentially the same material. Shearling, on the other hand, is made from real wool, which is softer when new. However, shearling comes with a higher price tag and can’t be washed as easily as sherpa.
Style: We’ve stuck to sherpa-lined jackets on our list, but these come in a few styles. These include denim sherpa jackets for the purists, corduroy for a unique western vibe, and sherpa-lined work jackets for a softer look.
Fit: Slouchy fits are making a comeback in style, but a well-fitted jacket remains timelessly cool and flattering. Also, if you plan to layer your new jacket over sweaters or flannels, be sure to choose something that’s fitted to accommodate layers underneath.
Brand: Great sherpa jackets come from everywhere. Iconic western wear brands offer maximum authenticity, while upscale designers also have some plush, modern options worth considering.
