Real Shearling Coats & Jackets vs Fake Faux Fur Coats: A Guide

Real Shearling Coats & Jackets vs Fake Faux Fur Coats: A Guide

Winter has us at a crossroads: real shearling or fake faux fur? Both have their pros, but each suit different tastes, ethics and budgets. In this we’ll break down the differences so you can decide for your winter wardrobe.

What is Real Shearling?

Real shearling is a luxurious natural material made from the tanned hide of sheep or lamb with the wool still intact. The result is a soft, warm and durable material that’s great for insulation. The wool side of the shearling is fluffy, the leather side is often exposed and gives the coat its rugged yet refined look.

Shearling is breathable and moisture wicking so it can regulate body temperature, perfect for cold climates. And with proper care a real shearling coat can last for decades, it’s a true investment piece.

Real shearling is also eco-friendly in some ways as it’s a byproduct of the meat industry, but it still raises ethical questions around using animal products in fashion.

What is Faux Fur?

Faux fur is a synthetic material that mimics real fur. Made from polyester or acrylic fibers, fake fur is a cruelty free option for fashion lovers who want the look and feel of fur without using animal products.

Faux fur jackets are lightweight, easy to care for and come in many styles and colors. But the downside is synthetic materials like polyester and acrylic don’t have the natural breathability and insulation of real shearling. Faux fur can be warm but it doesn’t regulate temperature like natural fibers. It also degrades faster over time with the synthetic fibers matting or losing their softness after wear and tear.

While faux fur is a more ethical choice being vegan friendly, it has a negative environmental impact as it’s made from plastic based fibers.

Warmth and Insulation

When it comes to warmth and insulation real shearling is the clear winner. Shearling wool is a natural insulator, it traps heat but let’s your body breathe. Perfect for extreme cold climates, it keeps you warm without making you sweat. The moisture wicking properties of shearling also regulates temperature, keeps you dry and comfortable.

 

Faux fur is warm but lacks the breathability of real shearling. Made from synthetic materials it may not be as comfortable especially in varying temperatures. But it’s still good for milder winters and warm in a lightweight form.

Durability and Longevity

If you’re looking for a long-term investment a real shearling leather jacket is the way to go. With proper care shearling can last for decades and still be soft, structured and warm. Sheepskin is naturally durable and can withstand wear and tear better than most synthetic materials.

Faux fur on the other hand has a shorter lifespan. Over time the synthetic fibers will lose their plushness, mat together or fray. Faux fur coats need to be replaced more often so are not as cost effective in the long run even though they may be cheaper to start with.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing between real shearling and faux fur is ethics. Real shearling is an animal product and that raises animal welfare in the fashion industry. Some consumers prefer to avoid animal-based materials altogether for ethical reasons and opt for vegan or cruelty free fashion.

Faux fur is animal free but not without its environmental drawbacks. The production of synthetic fibers like polyester and acrylic requires petroleum and contributes to pollution and the global plastic waste problem. Although it avoids the ethical issues of animal’s faux fur is not always a sustainable option.

For the eco conscious consumer the choice between real vs faux is tricky. Real shearling can last longer so you don’t need to buy as often while faux fur aligns with your ethical principles but has a bigger carbon footprint due to the synthetic material.

Style and Fashion

From a fashion perspective both shearling and faux fur coats have their own appeal. Shearling coats are often associated with luxury and timeless chic. Their classic design and high-quality craftsmanship make them a staple in luxury fashion and give a rugged yet refined look to any outfit.

Faux fur jackets are highly versatile and come in a wider range of colors and styles. They are for the trend driven consumer who wants to try out different looks without committing to a high-end investment piece. Faux fur allows for more playful and bold designs so it’s a popular choice for those who want to make a fashion statement.

Cost and Affordability

Real shearling leather jackets and coats are an investment, they are more expensive due to the quality of the materials and craftsmanship. But their durability and long lifespan justifies the higher price for those who want a piece that will last many winters.

Faux fur coats are generally more affordable and available at lower price points. They may not last as long but are a great option for those who want to be fashionable on a budget or try out different styles without a big financial commitment.

Conclusion: Which One to Choose?

Choosing between a real shearling coat and a faux fur jacket comes down to personal preference. If you want warmth, durability and a timeless piece of fashion then shearling is the way to go. If ethics and affordability are at the forefront of your decision-making process, faux fur offers a stylish, animal-friendly alternative with a smaller price tag.

Consider your values—whether they lean more towards ethical fashion, sustainability, or investing in long-lasting materials—and make the choice that best aligns with your needs.

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