Leather Jackets – What To Look For

When it comes to making a good impression, there aren’t many better options for a man than a stylish leather jacket. The leather jacket has been the staple of Western men’s fashion for decades and is available in many different styles. The classic leather motorcycle jacket gives an air of fresh macho intimidation and exerts a cool, relaxed look while the long leather trench-coat, often associated with Gothic subculture, can look dark, sleek and enticing.

The first thing to decide upon is what type of leather you want your jacket made from. If you’re after a soft, velvety feel and a vintage style leather, you may want to opt for nubuck. If budget is a concern, you may want to look at hide leather – the commonly available high street leather which is of a significantly lower grade than other types and is manufactured with quality being sacrificed for profit. At the opposite end of the scale is the extremely sought-after nappa leather. Nappa leather is the highest quality of leather money can buy and is lightweight and flexible.

Often, the best bargains on leather jackets can be had online. A high-grade nappa leather jacket can be bought for upwards of $500 – not all that expensive when you consider the quality of the leather and craftsmanship involved. However, if your budget is limited then hide leather may be suitable. Hide leather is heavier and often more uncomfortable than higher grades of leather, but is available far cheaper than higher grades of leather and in more outlets.

The classic black leather jacket remains the most popular color of leather, as it has done for many years. Some men opt for brown colored jackets in order to attain a vintage look, while red is a popular color for women. Leather coloring is achieved either by using aniline dyes on higher grades of leather or surface dyeing on lower grades. Surface dyeing helps hide blemishes in lower grade leather while aniline dyes give a varnished effect to high grade leather.

It’s not difficult to keep a leather jacket looking brand new. With a little care and attention, a leather jacket can give many, many years of good service. Use a leather protector regularly in order to protect your leather from rain and spillages. Moisturizing the jacket with a leather conditioner will prolong the life of your jacket and keep it supple and moist, providing it with flexibility to move and stretch without cracking or ripping. Enjoy your leather jacket and look after it.

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