A letterman jacket, also known as a varsity jacket or a letter jacket, is a type of jacket traditionally worn by high school and college athletes in the United States. The body of the jacket is often made of wool, while the sleeves are leather; the band collar, cuffs, and waistline are all made of the same material as the sleeves. The front of the jacket typically features a large letter or letters representing the school or team that the wearer is associated with. These letters are often made of chenille and are sewn onto the jacket.
Since the early 20th century, it has been customary to provide letterman jacket to athletes from high schools and universities. Its initial purpose was to reward and acknowledge student-athletes who had excelled at a particular level in their sport. Although though letterman's jackets are still given to players today, non-athletes also wear them for fashion reasons.
The letterman's jacket has become an iconic symbol of American high school and college culture. It is often associated with team spirit, school pride, and achievement. Many people consider it a rite of passage for high school and college students, and it is often cherished as a memento of their athletic or academic accomplishments.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards customizing letterman's jackets with individual designs, such as adding patches, embroidery, or other embellishments. This has made the jacket even more personal and meaningful to the wearer.
In conclusion, the letterman's jacket is a beloved American tradition that has become a symbol of athletic and academic achievement, team spirit, and school pride. It reflects a common experience that connects generations of students and graduates, whether worn by players or non-athletes.
