Although those initial flannels were made from fine wool, flannel these days are woven from all types of fabrics including synthetics, cotton, and wool. Flannel is an excellent jacket material, but with a wide selection of flannel jackets to select from, it can be challenging knowing what to purchase.

Is a flannel a shirt or jacket?

Is it a shirt or a jacket? Technically, it's both. ... A shirt jacket is typically constructed from a warm yet rugged material such as waxed cotton canvas, fleece, cotton flannel, or wool along with a warm inner lining for comfort.

What is a flannel considered?

A soft, medium-weight cotton fabric that has a napped, or fuzzy, finish on one or both sides. This napped finish either comes from brushing or from its characteristic loosely spun weave. Its soft, cozy feel makes it the perfect fabric to keep you warm and comfortable all winter long.