Sheepskin coats often conjure images of the capable, rugged men who tamed the western frontier. Or in some cases, the mountain man, strong and virile. This is long because sheepskin has been the number one choice for outdoors men and laborers for centuries. In fact, the first recorded use of this clothing dates back to ancient Europe and Asia. This timeless classic has helped keep its wearer warm, protecting him from the elements, and as of late, helped him or she makes a powerful impression of warmth, luxury, and sophistication.

If you have never heard of sheepskin, or are unsure of what it is, it is the tanned pelt of a young lamb. The pelt is sheared to give all of the fibers in the wool a uniform look and the softest touch. The other side is tanned, and then brushed to give it a soft, flexible, water-resistant feel. Being inside one of these coats brings its wearer a sense of safety and warmth, and is an experience that must be felt to be believed.

Now, most people know that wool has better insulating qualities than almost any other material. In fact, it is not uncommon to find wool insulating some older homes. The reason it is such a good insulator is that it has an ability to absorb moisture, but the fibers are so voluminous that they are still allowed to breathe and wick away moisture from your body. Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight without feeling the least bit heavy or even damp. In other words, even in the coldest rain, when you have on your sheepskin coat, you will be cozy, warm and dry.

This is the reason why lambskin was the choice for Lewis and Clark, and the other frontiersmen who helped settle this country. There are few clothing materials more practical or more functional than a good sheepskin. But sheepskin is more than just rugged functionality. They are also incredibly soft and luxurious to the touch. Despite its water-repellent qualities, even the leather exterior of these coats is soft and cool to the touch. When worn, the irresistible wool interior is often exposed as a turned back collar or cuffs. The wool is so soft and downy that it gives the fashion piece a sense of elegance and luxury.

For those with a more sophisticated style, the purchase of a new sheepskin coat can bring your wardrobe a sense of wildness and sex appeal, and is a great way to make your style a little more rugged. When you wear these coats you are making the statement that you are strong and capable, but that you are not a brute. You appreciate the finer things in life. You are a gentleman or a lady and should be respected as such. For this reason, it can also be a great addition to someone just starting to build their adult wardrobe. Sheepskin coats suggest their wearers are confident people, capable of taming frontiers and changing the world for the better.