Varsity jackets, also known as letterman jackets, are jackets that are traditionally worn by high school and college students in the United States to represent their participation in a particular sport or academic activity. They typically have a wool body with leather sleeves, and they are adorned with the school's colors and logo, as well as the letter or letters representing the student's particular activity.
The origin of the varsity jacket can be traced back to 1865, when the first intercollegiate football game was played between Rutgers and Princeton University. At the time, athletes wore simple, unadorned jackets to stay warm during games. It wasn't until later, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, that these jackets began to take on the characteristic style that we recognize today, with leather sleeves and decorative patches.
Over the years, the varsity jacket has become a symbol of academic and athletic achievement, and it has become popular not just among students, but also among people of all ages who want to show their school spirit or pay tribute to their alma mater.