How to Buy the Ultimate Leather Jacket.
So, you decided to finally take a walk on the wild side by investing in a leather jacket? Smart decision. The first lesson you will soon find out is not all leather jackets are created equal no matter how similar they look. Finding the right leather jacket is like finding the perfect pair of denim. If chosen wisely, it will last a lifetime and will age gracefully. So, with that being said, I want to break down three things you want to keep in mind when shopping for a leather jacket.
Try it on.
Ok, this may sound obvious, but you'll be surprised how many people actually buy a leather jacket without first trying it on. New leather jackets at first don't have a defined fit but, after wearing it daily and breaking it in, overtime your jacket will start to fit more snug and tight as it ages. Now, that you know this information beforehand, you may want to choose a jacket, a size bigger so as time passes the jacket won't be too tight especially if you plan to layer the jacket with a hoodie or sweatshirt. As you search online and come across different brands, you will soon realize that every jacket is cut and fits differently. If you persist on purchasing your leather jacket online, I recommend you get measured before-hand for a more accurate fit.
“But, if you’re ever so lucky to find one at a second-hand shop and the fit is right to buy, buy it immediately.”
Buy it worn.
Since I'm a "thrifter," I believe a lot of pieces fit better broken in and worn, and leather jackets are no exception. I remember 8 years ago while thrifting on the Lower Eastside with my wife, I found a perfectly broken in a leather jacket with some bad dope patches on the front and that was marked for only $30. It was one of the best investments I ever made, and the best part was somebody already did the work for me as far as breaking it in. In reality, it's hard to find hidden gems like this every day because men tend to hold on to their leather jackets until they're literally falling apart, or they will simply pass them down to their kids or grandkids. But, if you're ever so lucky to find one at a second-hand shop and the fit is right to buy, buy it immediately.
Check the grade of leather
What makes leather jackets great is how cool they look and how durable they are otherwise it’s no different from a jean jacket. And you can’t tell me “Fonzie” would have gotten the same respect if he wore a jean jacket. Kids YouTube “Happy Days” to understand that reference. Today finding a quality leather jacket may take more work because of how oversaturated the fast fashion retail chains are producing them. Not every grade of leather is the same when it comes to constructing premium leather jackets, and you can feel the difference when you try it on. Leather jackets are generally crafted from two types of leather cowhide and bison leather. The quality of leather will give you a good indication on how durable your jacket is, so always keep that in mind. The phrase "you get what you pay for" has never been truer when it comes to leather.
Building a timeless wardrobe consists of quality items, and quality items stand the test of time. As long as you keep quality in the forefront when shopping for a leather jacket, you should be just fine.