Sherpa Jackets Explained: History, Styles & More | Off the Cuff (2024)

When it comes to looking cool while staying warm, sherpa jackets rule the day. We love sherpa jackets in their many variations, beginning with the original Sherpa Trucker Jacket, all the way to the All-Over Sherpa, a jacket covered inside and out in plush faux shearling.

To back up, let’s learn a bit about sherpa and what makes it so special.

What Is Sherpa?

Sherpa lining refers to that cozy fuzz you see peeking out of the necks of many a jacket in cooler months. A sherpa jacket has it all: A protective outer layer (denim, corduroy, you name it), button front, plenty of pockets and a cozy, supersoft fabric lining. The perfect transitional piece, sherpa jackets offer protection from cooler temps without going wild in the weather-proofing department and are great for layering clothes as temps start dropping.

What Are Sherpa Jackets Made Of?

Originally made of sheep’s wool, our modernized take on sherpa is made of lightweight cotton or recycled polyester, boasting a nice deep pile and little fleece fuzzies that gives it it’s beloved texture. This modern sherpa lining has a much lighter weight, is less bulky and dries much faster than its predecessor. It’s that extra cozy layer everyone needs to make it through the chillier months.

When Were Sherpa Jackets Invented?

Levi Strauss & Co. introduced blanket-lined jackets for colder weather as early as 1943. Twenty years later, in 1963, we started offering “fleece” or ”orlon fleece” jackets — the term used before “sherpa” was eventually adopted.

Sherpa-lined Trucker Jackets have been in the Levi’s® line continuously since the 1960s, featured in a variety of fabrics from denim and corduroy to suede.

What Do Sherpa Jackets Go With?

Hot tip: You can wear it just like you wear your jean jacket...with everything. Like a little portable nest, your sherpa keeps you warm while adding an effortless coolness to any winter outfits. Stay true to size for a tailored fit that hugs the body or size up for a more laid-back look and feel that’s easy to layer with undershirts, thermals and flannels. However you choose to sherpa, we’re here for it with different styles like our original, Ex-Boyfriend and Vintage Fit Trucker Jackets.

Worn by generations of rebels and creators, this sherpa staple is the cozier counterpart to our Original Trucker Jacket. Rebooted for winter with a supersoft sherpa interior and insulated quilted lining in the sleeves, you’ll never have to choose between comfort and style again.

Shop Original Sherpa Jacket

Don’t want to blend in with the flock? Make your sherpa jacket your own with a trip to a Levi’s® Tailor Shop, where you can get creative with customizations like embroidery, patches and alterations of all kinds.