So you have a favorite leather jacket. It has seen some hard times and it shows. But it feels so right, like a second skin. It was with you through good times and bad. So how do you know when it is time to replace that leather or give it some tlc?
Well, there are several things to consider when making your decision. Does it have major rips or tears? Scuffing and discoloration are normal on leather jackets and can easily be brought to a "like new" look with professional redying. The average cost is $45.00 and up.
No matter how amazing those "as seen on TV" commercials can be, there is no such thing as a tear that magically disappears. You can however use cement glue to keep a tear from getting larger. Done professionally the cost is usually somewhere between $15.00 and $30.00.
There is the possibility of having an entire panel replaced. This requires the matching of another piece of leather. Due to the unique characteristics of leather, it may not be possible to match it exactly and if the leather is older and dry, it may not be a suitable solution. The newer the jacket, the better chance of finding a suitable match. The average cost of this endeavor would be about $100.00.
Another scenario could be the leather looks great but the lining is torn in more than one place. This is a tough one because the cost of replacing the liner is anywhere from $200.00 to $250.00 which is the average price of a good quality new leather jacket. This is where uniqueness and sentimental value come in to play. Can you find one just like it or is it one of a kind?
In closing, whether you decide to replace or reface, always deal with a reputable leather apparel shop. They offer quality and service you will not get at a department store.
How To Find the Perfect Fit in a Motorcycle Jacket
by Sue Rimington on February 28, 2012
Buying a motorcycle jacket is a big deal.
You want the right fit but you want it to look good too. A great jacket provides protection against the elements and offers crucial reinforcement for the body in the case of a crash. When finding the jacket that is right for you, you will need to keep in mind material, the fit, the padding and the pockets. This motorcycle jacket buying guide will show you how to buy the men's motorcycle jacket or women's motorcycle jacket that is right for you.
Motorcycle Jacket Material:
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Leather: While non-leather motorcycle jackets have come a long way in recent years, a good leather motorcycle jacket is hard to beat. That being said, all leather jackets are not created equal; look for jackets made from high-grade leather, such as cowhide, and avoid split leather, which provides less protection than other types. A good leather motorcycle jacket should be made from leather that is at least one millimeter thick.
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Cordura/Nylon: Modern non-leather motorcycle jackets made from high-density ballistic nylon or Kevlar that feature waterproof liners also provide essential protection. Some of the advantages of non-leather jackets include being lighter in weight and drying more quickly than leathers. Mesh jackets with armour are a popular choice for summer weather.
Finding the Right Fit:
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Sizing: If your leather jacket doesn't fit you properly, you aren't going to wear it as much, so its important to find a leather jacket with the three f's. Form Function Fit .
Make sure the jacket is comfortable when you are in the riding position. For a jacket to be comfortable while you're on your bike, it will need to have slightly longer sleeves, have extra shoulder room and come down far enough in the back to cover the top of your pants. My absolute favorite in Manufacturing is First Classics. They have a large selection of jackets with bi swing backs for more mobility, elasticity and extra give in the liner under the arms. Even the removable thinsulate liners have extra give in the under arms area.
Motorcycle Jacket Features:
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Vents: Wearing your jacket for protection is important, even when it's hot outside. If you'll be riding in a hot climate, you may want to look for a men's motorcycle jacket or women's motorcycle jacket with vents. Vents usually have zipper closures. They are often placed in the front and back of the jacket as well as in the sleeves to allow a little breeze to cool you down while you ride.
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Padding: The more padding your leather bike jackets have, the more protected you are. Look for reinforced elbows, shoulders and backs. Padding can consist of anything from extra layers of material to high-tech plastic composites, often called "armor," sewn into the jacket. The armor also needs to be in the right places; for example, shoulder armor should fit over your shoulders, not your biceps, which is another good reason to make sure you select a black leather jacket with the proper fit.
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Pockets: Obviously, pockets are a good idea, but making sure they're in the right places is important. Make sure that you have at least one pocket on the inside of the jacket to hold your wallet and other valuables. Outside pockets should have sturdy zippers to secure your items; flaps over the outside zippered pockets are even better. Many styles by First Manufacturing offer concealment pockets . Check out Style FMM244NOCZ.
Pockets on both sides and full vents in the front and the back for cross ventilation. -
Lining: If you plan on using your classic motorcycle jacket year-round, look for one with a removable liner and vents that can be opened and closed. The same jacket that keeps you comfortable in cold weather can bake you like a potato in hot weather, so the more adjustable it is, the better.
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Reflective material: In addition, it's a good idea to select a jacket with some reflective material sewn onto it. While you may look great in solid black, it makes you almost invisible at night. Many leather motorbike jackets feature thin white piping or blacked out piping down the sleeves and across the back, providing the reflective properties you need without making your jacket look too flashy. If you find a black motorcycle jacket and it has all the features and looks you want but it is missing the reflective piping, you can buy reflective tape and use it where necessary and even on your helmet. Another add on option is undergarments with armor instead of the leather jacket.