Sheepskin Coats have been around for centuries, with their roots traceable to ancient times.

Throughout history, sheepskin coats have played a crucial role in providing warmth, protection, and style to people across different cultures. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their functionality and timeless appeal.

The exact origins of sheepskin coats are difficult to pinpoint, as they likely evolved gradually over time as humans domesticated sheep for their wool and hides. However, we can trace the use of sheepskin for clothing back to ancient times.

Sheep were one of the earliest animals to be domesticated, with evidence suggesting that this occurred around 10,000 years ago in Mesopotamia. As humans began to keep sheep for their wool, hides, milk, and meat, they would have naturally discovered the insulating properties of sheepskin and its usefulness for making clothing.

In ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean region, sheepskin garments would have been among the earliest forms of clothing due to their availability and practicality. These early sheepskin garments likely consisted of simple robes or cloaks made from untreated sheepskin.

Sheepskin coats became more prevalent during the Middle Ages in Europe. They were commonly worn by shepherds and peasants due to the availability of sheepskin and its excellent insulating properties.

Over time, as human societies advanced and trade networks developed, techniques for tanning and treating sheepskins improved, leading to the development of more sophisticated sheepskin clothing, including coats. The precise emergence of what we would recognise as a “sheepskin coat” likely occurred over thousands of years, with variations in style and design reflecting the needs and preferences of different cultures and time periods.

Sheepskin coats gained popularity during the Age of Exploration as Europeans ventured into colder regions such as North America, Siberia, and Antarctica. Explorers and settlers relied on sheepskin garments to stay warm in harsh climates

Throughout history, sheepskin coats have been used by military forces in various countries. They provided warmth to soldiers stationed in cold regions and were often part of military uniforms during winter campaigns.

Sheepskin coats, particularly those lined with shearling, gained popularity among aviators during World War I and World War II. They provided vital warmth to pilots flying in unheated cockpits at high altitudes

Sheepskin coats experienced a resurgence in the 20th century as fashion items. In the 1960s and 1970s, they became iconic symbols of the counterculture movement, particularly associated with bohemian lifestyles.

At Cromford Leather, we select the finest Spanish Merino for many of our sheepskin coats and sheepskin jackets.  It’s luxuriously warm, yet relatively lightweight characteristics make it perfect for luxury garments.  Read more about the benefits of Spanish Merino.

Browse our Collection of sheepskin coats and leather jackets, including our double-breasted Newman pea coat.