The double rider is considered a classic American leather jacket. While it varies between different manufacturers, it usually has an angled zipper across the front, wide lapels, and a flared collar. Bomber jackets are waist length, casual, and have a soft inner lining. The lining usually extends to the collar, so it is fabric instead of leather. They typically have large pockets and are built for warmth and comfort. [1] X Research source Moto “racer” jackets are the dressiest leather jackets, with a snug fit and a small or absent collar. [2] X Research source
Armholes that are higher up on the jacket will give you a wider range of motion than lower armholes, which tend tend to pull on the body of the jacket when you move your arms. Be sure to check the sleeve length of the jacket. You will want the sleeves of your jacket to stop just before or at your wrists. They shouldn’t extend down over your hands.
If you want to wear your leather jacket to dressy events, consider a moto “racer” jacket in black or brown.
Cowhide is most often used for motorcycle jackets, due to its thickness and strength. [4] X Research source Calfskin is a more expensive alternative to cowhide—it has the durability of cow skin but is much softer. Pigskin and Bison skin have similar qualities to cowhide. Both are very durable. Bison skin has a large, deep grain pattern. [5] X Research source
Lambskin is popular for being extremely lightweight and comfortable, but this also makes it less durable and more prone to tearing. Consider what type of activities you will be doing when you wear the jacket to help determine if lambskin is the best choice for you.
Goatskin leather is used for the U. S. Navy’s G-1 jackets and the U. S. Air Force’s A-2 flight jackets. [6] X Research source
Keep in mind that, if you choose suede, you should never let it get wet. When it does, it dries extremely hard.
“Naked” top grain is top grain leather that has not been sanded down and that still retains its natural grain.
One thing to keep in mind is that all corrected leather is made from top grain, but not all top grain leather is corrected. For a more natural looking jacket, stick with either full grain or naked top grain leather.
