How to Shop for a High-Quality Leather Jacket

WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A LIGHTWEIGHT, FASHION-FORWARD LEATHER JACKET OR A RUGGED LEATHER COAT, KNOWING WHICH STYLE IS RIGHT FOR YOU CAN BE A DAUNTING TASK.

HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL GUIDELINES TO HELP YOU FIND THAT PERFECT LEATHER JACKET TO THAT WILL LAST YOU MANY YEARS TO COME.

 

1. Durability

One of the outstanding features of a high-quality leather jacket is its durability. Generally speaking, the larger the animal, the more substantial the leather will be, both in thickness and in weight. While a leather jacket purchased at a discount store may seem like a bargain, it won’t look as good nor last nearly as long as a premium one. The investment is well worth it: when quality leather jackets are properly cared for, they can last a lifetime.

2. Quality Workmanship

The superior quality of construction in a leather jacket shows through the attention to detail that is given by the artisan who is dedicated to producing a high-end product communicating the sense of timeless beauty. CALIGA PELLE works with the top leather tanneries and manufacturers of the world, and we pride ourselves on delivering the very best.

3. Types of Leather

The type of leather is a huge determining factor in a coat’s function and feel. There is no “best type” of leather; rather, each has its own unique characteristics and strengths. Here’s a breakdown of various types of leather:

• COWHIDE

Cowhide is the most common leather used in leather jackets, not just because of its wide availability and low cost, but because of its toughness, durability, and resistance to water and dirt. It offers great protection – most motorcycle jackets are crafted from cowhide, for example – but can take some time to wear- in due to its stiff texture. With its versatile matte finish and casual appeal, cowhide is widely accepted as the go-to leather for an affordable leather jacket.

• BISON

Bison leather is very similar to cowhide in terms of its ruggedness and durability, but it also boasts a beautiful natural grain patterning that cowhide generally doesn’t have, lending a rich, earthy look and texture. The thick grain also makes bison leather great for protective motorcycle gear.

• DEERSKIN

Dense and incredibly durable, deerskin is not only ideal for leather jackets but is also commonly used to make leather gloves and handbags. It’s wonderfully supple and gets softer and softer the more you wear it. Deerskin is perfect for someone who wants the same toughness and durability as a cowhide jacket, but with a softer, more elegant feel.

• GOATSKIN

Goatskin is a great all-around leather that, like deerskin, is softer, lighter, and more flexible than cowhide. Also very durable, goatskin jackets often look even better after years of wear than when new. The Navy and Air Force use goatskin for their G-1 and A-2 flight jackets, respectively. Goatskin is quite supple and has a pleasing pebble grain.

• LAMBSKIN

Lambskin is the crème de la crème of leather in terms of softness, suppleness, and wearability. It has a luxurious texture and is quite versatile, working equally as well in an elegant, full-length coat or a chic, cropped leather jacket. Naturally very lightweight, leather jackets made from lambskin can be worn comfortably year-round.

• CALFSKIN

Calfskin shares some of the same rugged characteristics as cowhide but has a softer, finer feel and a smoother surface. While generally thicker and heavier than lambskin, calfskin combines some of the toughness of cowhide with the supply, lightweight feel of lambskin.

 

4. Fashion, Fit, & Extras

Another indicator of quality in a leather jacket is its cut. The care taken in constructing a beautiful, well-fitting, figure-flattering coat should be apparent. Does it fit well in the sleeves when you move your arms around? Do the zippers seem sturdy and move smoothly? Is the cut complementary to your shape? Carefully choosing a finely-crafted coat guarantees that you’ll look and feel your best, year after year.

Many leather jackets feature luxurious lining and trim that offer extra warmth and durability. Additions such as plush sheepskin lining which lends wonderful insulation, or fur trim for added elegance and luxurious warmth; these added touches can make a leather coat really stand out from the rest.

When making an investment in a high-quality leather jacket, it’s essential that you be able to trust the source. Overland has made a name for itself by only offering the finest leather products for over 40 years, and is committed to providing its customers with a range of stylish, well-crafted, and durable leather jackets at every price point.

So which leather jacket or coat is right for you? It depends! We’re incredibly proud of the quality and workmanship in all of our coats, and every single one of them is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. As you browse through the various styles, keep these factors in mind and decide which look and type of coat are best for you.

And, if you have any questions, our friendly and knowledgeable product experts are available 7 days a week at [email protected] and will be happy to assist you.