Terminology Comparison
Sherpa vs Teddy
Fabric
The two most confused terms in wholesale fabric sourcing: sherpa and teddy. Same family or real difference? Pile structure, naming convention and the right order terminology, explained by a manufacturer.
Quick Answer
Sherpa and Teddy: Same Family, Different Naming
In one line: Sherpa and teddy are two market names for the same fabric family — a lambswool-look, high-pile plush knit — and are used interchangeably in most cases. "Sherpa" tends to appear in lining/inner use contexts, "teddy" in fashion outerwear (teddy coat, teddy jacket) contexts. Altunkaya's 290-310 gsm sherpa fabric suits both.
| Property | "Sherpa" Naming | "Teddy" Naming |
|---|---|---|
| Common context | Jacket/hood lining | Outerwear (teddy coat/jacket) |
| Pile character | Curly, irregular | Longer, straighter |
| Market | Outdoor/sportswear brands | Fashion/ready-to-wear brands |
| GSM (Altunkaya) | 290-310 gsm | 290-310 gsm (same product) |
| Is it standardized? | No — the distinction varies by manufacturer, no mandatory international standard | |
Sherpa — lining / inner use context
Teddy — outerwear / fashion context
FAQ
Common Questions About Sherpa and Teddy
Is sherpa fabric the same as teddy fabric?
Largely yes — both belong to the lambswool-look, high-pile plush fabric family and are often used interchangeably in international trade. The subtle difference is in naming convention: "sherpa" usually appears in the context of jacket/hood linings, while "teddy" is used in fashion outerwear (teddy coat, teddy jacket).
Is there a difference in pile structure?
In the market, "sherpa" generally describes a slightly curlier, more irregular pile, while "teddy" describes a longer, straighter-lying pile. This distinction isn't standardized and varies by manufacturer. Altunkaya's sherpa fabric, at 290-310 gsm, suits both use cases.
Which term should I use when placing an order?
International buyers commonly use "sherpa fabric" and "teddy fabric" interchangeably to search for the same product. To avoid confusion, specify GSM, pile height and intended use (lining vs. outer shell) when ordering.
Can teddy fabric be used as an outer shell, not just a lining?
Yes — in "teddy coat" and "teddy jacket" fashion, teddy/sherpa fabric is used both as the outer shell and as lining, unlike sherpa's classic role as an inner lining only. For outer-shell use, a denser, more even pile is recommended.
Request a Sherpa/Teddy Fabric Sample
Whichever term you use, the product is the same: 290-310 gsm, 50 kg minimum order, 2-5 business day delivery.