How to Buy a Leather Jacket? So you’ve decided to take the plunge and invest in that iconic symbol of cool, the leather jacket. Not a bad idea, my friend. A quality leather jacket can last a lifetime and serve you well through many life stages—from straddling your first motorcycle to shuffling around the old folks’ home. The key is finding one that fits your particular brand of cool without looking like an extra from Happy Days.
Because there’s a fine line between channeling your inner Marlon Brando in The Wild One and sparking visions of Arthur Fonzarelli snapping his fingers to jukebox tunes. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to leather jacket bliss without the retro kitsch factor. You’ve got this, Danny Zuko.
What Is a Leather Jacket?
A leather jacket—it’s a rite of passage, a symbol of rebellion, and a wardrobe staple all rolled into one. But before you go all Danny Zuko, let’s get a few things straight about this timeless garment.
It’s Made of Dead Animal Hides
That’s right, those buttery, soft, and luxurious leather jackets are made from the treated skins of cows, lambs, goats, or—if you’re feeling exotic—even ostriches or alligators. If that makes you squeamish, you might want to consider a high-quality faux leather or vegan leather alternative. For the rest of us carnivores, real leather is where it’s at.
There are Many Types of Leather
Not all leathers are created equal. The most common kinds of jackets are cowhide or lambskin. Still, you’ll also find buffalo, suede, and premium specialty leathers like deerskin. Heavier leathers like cowhide are very durable but can feel stiff. In comparison, lighter leathers like lambskin are softer but less rugged. It comes down to the look and feel you want.
It Will Cost You
A good leather jacket is an investment, and you get what you pay for. Expect to drop at least $300 to $500 for a decent midweight cowhide or lambskin jacket. Premium leathers, embellishments like fringe or patches, and brand names will drive the price up from there. But take heart—a quality leather jacket can last 10 to 20 years or more with proper care and conditioning.
You Have to Break It In
Brand-new leather jackets can feel stiff and boxy. It takes time for the leather to soften and conform to your body. Regularly wearing your jacket is the best way to speed up the breaking-in process. You can also try using a leather conditioner to soften the material and then stuffing the jacket with towels to stretch it out as it dries. With patience and a little elbow grease, you’ll have a custom-molded second skin in no time.
The bottom line? A leather jacket may require an extra investment of time and money upfront. Still, you’ll be rewarded with a stylish classic that only gets better with age. The Fonz would certainly approve.
Different Styles of Leather Jackets for Men
So you want to buy a leather jacket but don’t want to end up looking like the Fonz’s long-lost cousin? We feel you. Leather jackets come in more styles than just “greaser.” Here are a few options to consider that will make you look cool without needing a comb and pomade.
Bomber Jacket
The bomber jacket is a classic, casual style that works for most body types. It’s cut short, usually waist-length, with elastic or ribbed trimming around the waist and cuffs. Bombers were originally designed for pilots to keep warm while flying open-cockpit planes. However, they have since become popular for their versatility and timeless style. Bombers pair well with everything from jeans and a T-shirt to chinos and a button-down.
Moto (Motorcycle)
If you’re looking for an edgier style, the Moto jacket is for you. This collarless jacket features an asymmetrical zipper, multiple zippered pockets, and sometimes quilted panels on the shoulders and elbows. Moto jackets have a bit of a “bad boy” vibe but can also look stylish when dressed up a bit. For a night out, throw it on over a button-down shirt and dark jeans.
Field Jacket
The field jacket is a slightly more rugged option, originally designed for hunters and outdoors people. It’s a bit longer, hitting around mid-thigh, with a button or snap closure and multiple large pockets. The field jacket has a casual, workwear-inspired look that’s perfect for weekend adventures. Pair with jeans, corduroys or chinos and your favorite boots.
The most important thing is to choose a style you feel comfortable in, and that fits your personal aesthetic. A leather jacket can last for decades if you care for it properly, so take your time to find one that you’ll want to wear for years to come. And whatever you do, avoid the Fonzie look—unless you really want to go retro. In that case, ay!
How to Choose a Leather Jacket
So you want to buy a leather jacket but don’t want to end up looking like an extra from Happy Days? We feel you. Leather jackets can be stylish and timeless when done right but go horribly wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to help you find a leather jacket that’s perfect for your personal style.
Focus on Fit
A leather jacket should feel like a second skin, hugging your body in all the right places. If it’s too loose, you’ll look like you’re wearing your dad’s coat from high school. Too tight and you’ll have a hard time doing simple things like breathing or moving your arms. Try on multiple sizes to find one that lets you move freely while still accentuating your best features.
Consider the Cut
Do you want a classic biker style, bomber, or something else? Biker jackets typically have an asymmetrical zipper and belt, while bombers have elasticized hems and cuffs. Other options include blazers, racing jackets, or dusters. Choose a cut that suits both your personal style and body type. If you’re not into the rebellious biker look, a sleek blazer style may be more your speed.
Focus on Quality
A high-quality leather jacket will last you decades if properly cared for. Check that the leather is thick yet pliable, with minimal creasing. Run your hands along the seams – they should feel solid with no loose threads. Check reviews of the brand to determine if their jackets hold up well over time. A quality jacket may cost more upfront but will save you money in the long run.
Consider Color
The classic black leather jacket is always a solid choice, but don’t be afraid to branch out. Brown and tan can appear more casual, while oxblood or forest green are stylish options if black seems too dark. If you want to make more of a statement, you can’t go wrong with a bold red. Just make sure any color you choose is versatile enough to pair with much of your wardrobe.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding a leather jacket that’s high quality, stylish, and makes you look anything but like a ’50s greaser. The Fonz would approve.
Factors That Determine Leather Jacket Quality
To avoid looking like an extra from Happy Days, there are a few factors to consider when buying a leather jacket.
Leather type
The leather used is the biggest determinant of quality and price. Top-grain leather is the highest quality and most expensive. It’s made from the outer layer of the hide and has the natural grain intact. Full-grain leather is also high quality and durable. Both will last a lifetime with proper care. Lower quality leathers like split grain and bonded leather may start to peel and crack within a year. They’re cheap for a reason.
Fit
A leather jacket should feel like a firm, loving embrace, not a stifling chokehold. Make sure it allows free range of motion in your arms and doesn’t pull when you bend over or sit down. Leather will mold to your body over time, so buy a jacket that feels slightly snug but still comfortable. An ill-fitting jacket will make you look like a kid trying on dad’s clothes.
Style
Choose a style suited to your particular brand of cool. A bomber or moto jacket for casual flair, a racer for streamlined sleekness, or a trench for neo-noir mystique. Whatever you pick, make sure it aligns with your overall style so you don’t end up looking like a poser. Unless, of course, that’s the look you’re going for, in which case, do you.
Cost
A high-quality leather jacket is an investment, typically $500-$1500 or more for top-grain leather. If that makes you break out in a cold sweat, don’t worry. With some patience, you can often find high-quality jackets on sale at the end of the season. A well-made leather jacket can potentially last 10-20 years or more, so the cost per wear may end up being quite reasonable.
By considering these factors before you buy, you’ll end up with a leather jacket you’ll love for years to come, without people mistaking you for the Fonz. Ayyyy!
Also read Men’s Fashion Trends Winter 2024 | From Blanket Hoodies to Chunky Boots.
Where to Buy the Best Quality Leather Jackets
When looking to buy a high-quality leather jacket that won’t make you look like an extra in Happy Days, there are a few places you’ll want to check out.
Specialty Leather Stores
Leather goods shops that specifically focus on leather jackets, pants, and accessories are your best bet. They’ll have a wider selection in different styles – motorcycle, bomber, field, trucker – and price points. The sales staff will actually know the difference between cowhide, lambskin, and faux leather, unlike some big box store clerk who thinks “genuine leather” means high quality.
These specialty stores can be pricier, but you’re paying for quality and expertise. They’ll help you find a jacket with a perfect, tailored fit that you’ll have for decades, not some cheap piece of pleather that will peel and crack in a season. Many offer additional services like monogramming, alterations, or custom designs so you can get exactly what you want.
Vintage and Consignment Shops
If you’re looking to achieve a James Dean level of cool without dropping a month’s rent, check out vintage and second-hand stores in your area. You may be able to find a high-quality vintage leather jacket from brands like Schott NYC, Belstaff, or Red Wing. These jackets were built to last, and many have broken in beautifully over time.
Shopping consignment is also an eco-friendly choice since you’re reusing and recycling instead of buying new. You never know what gems you might uncover – maybe you’ll find an antique bomber jacket from WWII or a retro motorcycle jacket from the ’70s in perfect condition. At the very least, you’ll have a unique piece of history that won’t make you look like a wannabe Fonz.
The key is taking your time to dig through the racks. Check the jacket carefully for any tears, stains, or other damage before you buy. Make sure it still has plenty of life left so you’re not wasting money on a jacket that will fall apart after a few wears. If it’s a bit large or long, see if the store offers tailoring or ask if the seller would be willing to negotiate the price. With some patience and skill, you can walk away with an incredible vintage find that’s both stylish and affordable.
How Much Should You ?
When it comes to dropping some serious cash on a leather jacket, how much is too much? This largely depends on your budget and how often you plan to wear it. If you want a jacket that will last for years and become a wardrobe staple, be prepared to pony up at least $500 to $700. Anything under $300 is likely made of cheap, stiff leather that won’t break in well and probably won’t last more than a season or two.
- $500 to $700: For a mid-range, high-quality leather jacket made of soft, supple leather, expect to pay $500 to $700. At this price point, you’ll get a jacket made of cowhide or sheepskin from a reputable brand that will conform to your body over time and last for many years. This is a solid investment for a classic wardrobe piece.
- $700 to $1,500: Premium jackets made of the finest Italian leathers like lambskin or calfskin and featuring custom details will cost between $700 to $1,500. At this price, you’re paying for the brand name and highest quality. Jackets in this range should last a lifetime and even gain character over time. Only you can decide if the prestige is worth the splurge.
- Over $1,500: Unless you plan to pass it down as an heirloom to your grandchildren, a leather jacket over $1,500 is probably overkill for most people. At this point, you’re paying a premium for the label and status. Diminishing returns set in rapidly beyond the $1,500 mark, so you’re mostly funding the brand’s lavish ad campaigns and not much extra quality.
The bottom line is to buy the highest quality you can afford for maximum longevity, but don’t feel like you have to spend a small fortune to get a great leather jacket. Keep your budget and needs in mind and look for solid construction over flashy logos.
With the right care and maintenance, even a mid-range jacket can provide many years of stylish use. Whatever you spend, avoid that cringe-worthy Fonzie vibe, and you’ll get your money’s worth in coolness.
How to Break in and Care for Your New Leather Jacket
So you’ve gone and bought yourself a leather jacket – congratulations, you magnificent beast! Now it’s time to break that baby in and give it some TLC to last you a lifetime.
Conditioning is key
When you first get your jacket home, treat it to nice conditioning. Use a high-quality leather conditioner and massage it into the leather following the directions. This will soften the leather and protect it from the elements. Reapply every few months to keep your jacket supple and prevent cracking.
Wear it (a lot)
The only way to truly break in a leather jacket is to wear it often. As much as possible. Wear it around the house, wear it out for errands, wear it on dates – the more you wear it, the more it will mold to your body and develop character. After a few weeks of regular wear, you’ll notice it becoming more pliable and comfortable.
Embrace the imperfections
Leather jackets get scuffs, scratches, marks, and stains. It’s inevitable. But don’t fret – each little nick and blemish adds personality. Resist the urge to baby your jacket. Spot-clean any stains and only treat scratches if absolutely necessary. An imperfect, well-worn leather jacket is a beautiful thing.
Storage savvy
When you do take off your beloved jacket, store it properly. Avoid hanging leather jackets for long periods, as this can cause shoulders to stretch out of shape. Instead, lay it flat or drape it over a chair. Make sure it’s away from heat and humidity.
Every now and then, you should treat your jacket to a refreshing spa day. Use a leather cleaner to remove built-up oil and dirt, re-dye or re-paint if needed to cover any scratches, and reapply a conditioning treatment. Follow this with the wear and storage tips above, and your jacket will stay looking its ruggedly handsome best for many years of adventures together.
So go on, get out there, and break in that leather jacket! Be rough, be tough, and in no time at all, you’ll have a trusty companion molded perfectly to you. The Fonz would be proud.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Leather Jacket
So you want to buy a leather jacket but don’t want to end up looking like the Fonz’s long-lost cousin? Avoiding a few common mistakes will help ensure you look stylishly rebellious rather than stuck in a ’70s time warp.
Buying a size too small
There’s nothing worse than squeezing into a jacket that’s too tight. Leather doesn’t stretch much, so buy a size up from your normal jacket size to allow room for layers underneath. A jacket that’s too snug will make you look like an overstuffed sausage and be uncomfortable to wear.
Choosing a style that’s dated
Unless you’re going for a retro look, steer clear of styles that scream “mid-century.” Look for a classic bomber, moto, or racer jacket style in a solid dark color like black, brown, or navy. Simple and minimal details are timeless. Ornate embroidery, fringe, or an abundance of zippers and buckles will only lead to future fashion regret.
Paying too much
You don’t need to drop a whole paycheck to get a high-quality leather jacket. Shop sales and discount retailers to find a deal. Look for real, full-grain leather, which may cost a bit more but will last for years. Faux leather might be cheap but won’t age well and will start to peel and crack within a season or two.
Not trying it on
Don’t just order a jacket online sight unseen. Sizing can vary between brands and styles. Trying on in store will ensure the best fit and allow you to check details like pocket placement, zipper functionality, and overall quality. Make sure the jacket fits comfortably in the shoulders and arms and isn’t too tight when zipped. You want to look fashionably relaxed, not like you’re being squeezed out of your hide.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll find a leather jacket you’ll enjoy wearing for years to come without the disco-era fashion faux pas. You’ll be stylishly rebellious and ready to ride – even if it’s just your Vespa to meet friends for a night out. The Fonz would approve!
Leather Jacket FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
So you want to buy a leather jacket but don’t want to end up looking like the Fonz from Happy Days. We’ve got you covered, literally.
Here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions about scoring a killer leather jacket.
What styles should I consider besides the classic biker jacket?
The bomber jacket is a stylish, lightweight option if you don’t want to look like an extra in a Mad Max movie. For a retro vibe, you can’t go wrong with a classic blazer or racer style. If you’re feeling really adventurous, give the trench coat a try—just make sure you also invest in a fedora and call everyone “dollface.”
How much should I budget for a high-quality leather jacket?
You’ll want to set aside at least $500-$1000 for a jacket made of premium, full-grain leather. Anything less, and you risk ending up with a pleather jacket that will last about as long as a Kardashian marriage. It may sting upfront, but a high-quality leather jacket can last decades and become a timeless staple of your wardrobe.
What color should I get?
Black is always a classic, slimming choice and goes with everything. But don’t be afraid to branch out with shades of brown, like cognac or bourbon, which give off a rustic yet polished vibe. For a stylish pop of color, consider oxblood/burgundy, forest green, or navy. Unless you’re in an ’80s hair metal cover band, avoid anything too loud or bright.
How should a leather jacket properly fit?
A leather jacket should feel snug but still allow you to move freely. It will also loosen up a bit as the leather softens. Make sure the shoulders fit well and the sleeves extend to about your wrists. You want the hem to hit around your hips. Take a deep breath to ensure you have room for layers underneath.
A jacket that’s too loose will make you look boxy, while one that’s too tight will cut off your circulation and earn you the nickname “sausage casing.”
So go forth and shop confidently now that you have the answers to all your leather jacket questions. Just remember—no “say’s,” no popped collars, and definitely no “sit on it” jokes. You got this!
Summary on How to Buy a Leather Jacket
So there you have it, the keys to procuring a slick new leather jacket without resembling an extra from Happy Days. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to pulling off that iconic tough-guy look, or at least as close as your personality allows.
Just remember, no matter how cool you think you look in your new jacket, your Mom will always remember you as the kid who cried that time you fell off the swing set. Some images can never be erased by even the coolest of fashion statements.
At the end of the day, though, if you’ve found a jacket that makes you feel like a rebel without a cause or a rogue on the open road, that’s really all that matters. Now get out there and unleash your inner James Dean – but maybe avoid spontaneously breaking into song or calling anyone “Potsie”. Your dignity will thank you.
- Necklace Lengths for Guys | Our Comprehensive Guide - 12 March 2024
- What Jewelry Should a Man Wear? Mastering the Basics - 12 March 2024
- How to Wear Multiple Rings Men’s | Learn Stylish Ring Stacking - 7 March 2024
