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Vegan leather jackets avoid animal materials in favour of cruelty-free alternatives. Here, we explain what the options are, and the top-rated brands making vegan biker jackets and more, including Will’s Vegan Store and Stella McCartney.
The timelessness of a leather jacket
Leather jackets have long been a timeless wardrobe staple, with the biker style really coming into its own in the 1950s. Synonymous with cool, they are conventionally made with animal skins which is… less cool, as animal rights campaigner Emma Håkansson explained in her report on the harsh realities of leather production. A lot of fashion-lovers would rather edge away from the distinct impacts on people, the planet, and, of course, our animal friends.
What’s wrong with animal leather jackets?
Due to complex supply chains, most of the world’s leather is untraceable, which means ensuring the welfare of the sentient beings whose skins we wear isn’t easy. What we do know is that leather production requires excess use of precious water and dangerous chemicals, harming both the environment and the workers involved. And from an ethical standpoint—whether you steer clear of all animal products or simply prefer to wear cruelty-free fashion—there are certainly better options out there.
Is vegan leather better?
It seems like every other day a new vegan leather alternative crops up. While traditional “vegan leather” is often made from environmentally damaging materials like plastic-based PVC or PU, more sustainable and innovative options like recycled rubber, apple peal leather and cactus leather are available. Having said that, some innovative plant-based leathers may still contain polyester or PU coatings for colour, strength, waterproofing, or durability, so it’s worth noting that these options, while not using animal materials, may not biodegrade and still contain chemicals. No option is perfect, and it is up to you to decide which fabrics best align with your values and go from there. Like most choices in life, there are pros and cons. And remember, opting for secondhand—whether animal leather or otherwise—is almost always the most sustainable way to go.
If you want to get your hands on a leather jacket, there are a selection of brands devoted to making fashion a kinder industry, and we have rounded up the best of the best.
