Few other clothing have the power to transform you like a superb leather jacket.
But just because it’s wonderful and high-quality doesn’t mean it has to be expensive.
Of course, the more exotic the item, the higher the price.
Many folks will be completely content with the good items and will never want anything else. Lots of other people will have the resources and ambition to compete in the top tier.
What’s the difference between the two?
This is something we’ll look into in this article.
One factor to bear in mind with leather jackets is that there is definitely a tier that you want to avoid, since if you go below it, you’ll end up with some genuine junk.
I’m referring about real leather jackets that stink like an old Buick and wear like a garbage bag. Typically, you should start with $300 to $500.
This will ensure that you obtain nice leather, good hardware, and that it is sewed up in a responsible manner by individuals who are treated decently.
To many individuals, $300 may appear to be a large sum. I’m looking at some of the secondhand choices on eBay for around $300.
Let’s discuss about leather jackets that are good, better, and best.
Good Leather Jackets – $300 – $750
At this level, you’ll generally find cowhide or steer leather sewed up in a durable manner, with potentially some customizing choices.
Any of these leather jackets could potentially be the only one you ever desire or need. There’s no reason to look anything more.
Many folks have worn these in extreme weather and never wanted to wear another jacket.
I say more money for doing exciting things is a good thing.
The Satchel & Page Bomber jacket is an example of this level.
I purchased this a few years ago for roughly $550 and it has served me well.
This jacket comes with some good leather, albeit it’s a little too shiny for my liking, which is more about the finishing than the quality.
The leather is full grain vegetable tanned French calf, with brass hardware, cotton lining, and a #10 YKK zipper, as well as a removable Spanish shearling wool collar.
Because the cut is slim, it will appear more tailored than other jackets at this price level, which is the main issue with budget jackets in general.
I’ve worn this jacket a lot, and while it’s a fine jacket, you’ll have to make some compromises with most jackets at this price point.
First and foremost, most leather at this quality will be corrected to some extent and finished to last.
If you’re a patina freak like me, you might be frustrated by the length of time it takes to achieve any true wear. However, if maintaining your jacket appearing new and fresh is important to you, this may be a benefit.
At this price point, sizing is also limited, but there are companies that can customize your jacket for much less than you might imagine. Always err on the side of bigger rather than smaller when it comes to fitting.
Schott, Vanson, and Cockpit USA are a few other alternatives at this pricing point.
Better Leather Jackets – $800 – $1500
For most folks, the mid-tier, which ranges from approximately $800 to $1500, will be the sweet spot.
Some people will be turned off by that price, but I believe the alternatives from the good tier will be more than adequate for you.
However, if you want more exotic leathers, unusual designs, or even bespoke fit possibilities, this is the level to be at.
I’m going to use this Field Leathers jacket for our example here.
This is one of the best values available at this price point, and they’re quickly approaching the top tier of jackets.
You’ll find a greater selection of leathers at this mid-level. There are also some unusual and creative designs where less expensive jackets maintain their styles safe to appeal to a wider audience.
Upgraded hardware in some cases, and customised options, similar to Field Leathers, for the ultimate in personalization and fit.
If you’ve picked a jacket from the first tier and then incorporated the cost of tailoring, be sure it doesn’t exceed the selections in this mid-tier, because you might be missing out on something much better.
Eastman, Langlitz, and Aero Leathers are among the other companies in this tier.
Best Leather Jackets – $1500 and Up
We’ve reached the point where people will question your mental stability and tell you how much you paid for a jacket.
Surprisingly, I had an easier job locating brands at this level than at any other. This is the place to go if you want a jacket that transforms you when you wear it.
At this level, the sky is the limit, and you can get practically whatever you want. Moose leather, cowhide, and deerskin are all available, as well as Shinki Tannery’s top-shelf horse hide, widely regarded as the best leather jacket material.
You’ll find one-of-a-kind designs, both restrained and wild, with the option to customize them as you see fit in many situations.
Most significantly, some companies provide a bespoke fit, which should be your top priority for anything that costs as much as your rent.
For this example, I’ve chosen the Himel Brothers Heron jacket.
The design is based on a classic A2 bomber, but it features a lot of vintage-inspired design touches that make it stand out.
The leather is Shinki horsehide, with Italian wool lining and was custom-made to my specifications.
Himel’s use of cotton thread, which can be easily repaired when required because the thread will give before the holes in the leather, is one of the less noticeable elements.
It’s difficult to go into great detail about a single model at this level because the world is your oyster. However, you may rest assured that you will receive some absolutely exceptional and world-class craftsmanship.
Good Wear Leather, Freewheelers, the Real McCoys, Rainbow Country, and The Flat Head are among the other brands in this class.
Final Words
When it comes to leather jackets, there’s a lot to think about.
Who do you want to make it, what materials do you want it to be built of, the style, the color, everything?
I’d say a leather jacket is one of those products you should seriously consider; it’s not something you should buy on the spur of the moment.
Consider what you want not only now, but also in the future, because this is something that could outlast you if you take care of it.
Consider that for a moment. If there’s anything you want but can’t buy right now, it’s well worth saving for.
