Perhaps you are looking into it for yourself, or maybe you are looking for sheepskin gifts for someone you know. Either way, what on earth is sheepskin leather?
Sheepskin leather is also known by a couple of other names: shearling and lambskin. It is a leather that comes from the hide of, you guessed it, sheep. The fashion industry is seeing an increasing interest in this type of leather. Everything from sheepskin gifts to sheepskin clogs and other sheepskin footwear are cropping up. Some people are even using sheepskin insoles for slippers and real sheepskin boots!
HOW IS SHEEPSKIN MADE?
Sheepskin is tanned with the fleece still intact (unlike other leather where the hair or fur is removed before tanning). This renders the sheepskin more durable and invulnerable to decomposition. Once tanned, a sheepskin can be colored or dyed.
One of the most unique characteristics of sheepskin is that it has fleece on one side and tanned leather on the other. This works really well for slippers, coats, jackets, gloves, and boots, when warm clothing is required. Additionally, sheepskin is used as a wool interior for a stylish look in bags, purses, and wallets.
HIDDEN BENEFITS OF SHEEPSKIN
Beyond being a new trendy fashion option, sheepskin has many amazing benefits that aren’t so obvious.
Incredible Warmth and Temperature Regulation: Sheepskin coats originally became popular during World War II, being used as heavy jackets to keep soldiers warm. Because of the crimp of the sheep’s wool, there is a large interior insulating pocket that is created. Body heat is naturally retained when wearing sheepskin, which can help tame even the most bitter winter bite. Coats are great for winter sheepskin gifts.
Incredible Durability: Sheepskin is the only natural fiber that can be bent over 20,000 times and still retain its shape without breaking or tearing. Sheepskin coats and sheepskin gifts can last for decades when cared for properly. With proper care, even the softness and shape will remain intact over dozens of years. It is not uncommon to hear of people who wear the same sheepskin jacket for 20 plus years.
Good for Many Climates: Because of how naturally insulating sheepskin is, people sometimes think that it would be too hot and heavy for more moderate temperatures. However because it is extremely breathable, and has moisture-wicking properties, sheepskin is great for both moderate and cold climates and can help regulate body temperature. Sheepskin gifts are very adaptable and people will be seen wearing sheepskin coats and jackets in the fall, winter, and spring.
Naturally Water Resistant: Wool fibers have natural water-repellent layers that help protect the garment from moisture. After exposure to rain or snow, a sheepskin jacket needs only be shaken lightly and smoothed over with a soft brush.
Timeless Style: Like we mentioned, people have been wearing sheepskin coats since World War II. These coats create an iconic look that will last throughout all sorts of fashion trends. Sheepskin gifts make excellent gifts for friends and family because in addition to the durability of the material, the style stays in fashion forever.
Self-Cleaning: Mostly. Sheepskins have a natural resistance to dirt and bacteria and possess some self cleaning mechanisms in the fibers. This makes it easy to care for your sheepskin articles of clothing and keeps them looking and smelling clean and fresh.