A quality leather jacket is a worthy investment -- and yes, if it’s quality, it will be an investment. If you’re browsing leather jackets this season, you may be overwhelmed with the amount of options. That’s why we’ve compiled our Leather Jacket Buying Guide: to help you focus on what matters when choosing a leather jacket, for yourself or someone (very) special on your gift list. Leather Jacket Buying Guide: 3 Factors to Consider 1. Types of Jackets Choose a timeless style of leather jacket so your choice outlasts anything overly trendy. Here are our 3 favorite types of men’s leather jackets: Leather Racer Jacket Also called a moto jacket or a cafe racer jacket, the leather racer jacket is reminiscent of the classic biker jacket -- but a bit more clean cut and versatile. A stylish leather racer jacket features soft leather, zip front closure, front zip pockets, side pockets, and a snap-over band collar. Leather Aviator Jacket The oldest and original of all styles of leather jackets is the leather aviator jacket (also called a bomber jacket or flight jacket). This jacket was originally designed for WWI pilots who needed to stay warm at high altitudes. Classic aviator jacket details include a relaxed fit, standup collar, front slit or flap pockets on the chest, and side zip pockets. Leather Trucker Jacket One of this season’s best types of men’s jackets is the leather trucker jacket. You may recognize that denim jackets are often constructed in the trucker jacket style. The instantly recognizable features of trucker jackets include the waist-length cut, button front closure, buttons on the sleeve cuffs and front chest pockets, and the trademark vertical or slanted seams that run from the front chest pockets to the waist. But we can assure you: leather trucker jackets beat denim trucker jackets every time for comfort, style, and durability. 2. Types of Leather Spoiler alert: if you choose the best type of leather jacket, but buy it in a poor quality material, you’re not going to get the most out of your purchase. A leather jacket ought to get better with age, feel better the longer you wear it, and look even better with time. Here are some of our favorite types of leather for jackets. Lambskin Leather Although cow leather used to be the gold standard for leather jackets, lambskin is much more common now because it is so soft. A quality lambskin leather jacket feels luxuriously broken-in from the beginning. Goatskin Leather Goatskin is softer and offers more stretch than cowhide leather, but it is not quite as soft and supple as lambskin. The strength and weight of goatskin makes it a good insulator, and its stretch adds flexibility. A quality goatskin leather jacket will age well and easily stand up to rugged, everyday wear. Cowhide Leather Nothing beats full grain cow leather in terms of insulation and strength. Yes, lambskin and goatskin are fantastic options -- but full grain cow leather has been the gold standard for a reason. Make note, though: full grain and top grain leather are the only way to go, or the quality of the leather drops drastically. A full grain cow leather jacket offers durability, versatility, and timeless style. 3. Remember What’s Inside Don’t forget to check the interior of the leather jacket you’re considering! Lining Be sure your leather jacket includes a lining that is comfortable, breathable, and durable. "Hidden" Features Also consider if the leather jacket has features like an interior chest pocket or stylish branding details. There you have it! As you shop for leather jackets, remember: the best men’s leather jackets are made of fine leather and quality construction, both of which get even better with age. As we said before: a fine leather jacket is a worthy investment. Shop Buffalo Jackson’s collection of leather jackets here. Related Articles: Vintage Leather Jackets: This Years Hottest Gift Men’s Leather Jacket Styles Types of Leather Jackets: What Style Are You?
