Our Favorite Leather Moto Jackets To Wear This Fall
Usually, cool factor goes hand in hand with throwing caution in the wind. Look at any movie from the ‘80s. Pocket protectors and eyeglass cords were often used as sartorial shorthands to point out who the uncool characters were.
The one exception, however, is the leather jacket. It’s one of the most practical, protective, and universally useful pieces of outerwear. And yet, its association with motorcycles always gives it an edge. So with the twilight of summer at hand, we rounded up our favorite leather moto jackets to wear this fall.
Today, it’s a classic piece of menswear that brings practicalists and the fashion-forward together. Style-wise, a moto pairs naturally with jeans but adds sleekness to a suit. If you couldn’t care less about fashion, a good leather jacket is still a highly functional, instant family heirloom.
Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket
Not to be morbid, but the steerhide construction of Taylor Stitch’s Moto Jacket means it’ll likely live on beyond even you. Steerhide may be stiffer than cowhide, but it’s so worth it. It’s a famously durable leather that patinates beautifully. Every time you wear it, you’re basically personalizing this jacket, adding your mark as you walk through life in it.
Besides, breaking in outerwear isn’t harrowingly blister-inducing the way it is with leather shoes or gloves. Think of it as a way for you and the moto to get to know each other. The design is classically structured, so it wears as dapperly as a blazer does but is far cooler.
Price: $1,075
Schott Waxed Natural Pebbled Cowhide Cafe Leather Jacket
I’m of the belief that the cafe racer jacket is the most versatile of all leather outerwear. The neat lines and solid architecture of this Schott Waxed Jacket allow you to partner it with workwear or cowboy boots, pinstripes or tweed. Go for an always flattering fitted jacket, or, go for an oversized one for a clean Mod aesthetic a la The Beatles. Wear it unzipped or zip it all the way up, then clasp that Mandarin collar—or don’t.
Regardless of what you want this jacket to say about your personal style, its natural pebbled cowhide leather will say that you’re discerning. Hey, there’s a reason Schott has been an American touchstone for over a century.
Price: $995
Buck Mason Bruiser Leather Moto Jacket
From its strong lapels to that asymmetrical zip, the Buck Mason Bruiser is a true classic. It’s cut traditionally, so it’s almost like owning a vintage, except you get to patinate it yourself. It’s made from lambskin, which is so breathable and supple that it’s downright frictionless.
My favorite part is the old-school high hem and close-to-body fit. Hanging from its structured shoulders, the drape is highly flattering. If all of the best ‘70s rock music were a jacket, it would be the Bruiser.
Price: $598
Flint and Tinder Golden Bear Cafe Racer
Do you prefer a down-to-earth field watch over a sleek chronograph? If you’re less into motorcycles and lean more into swashbuckling adventure, this Flint and Tinder Cafe Racer is the best of both worlds. It’s that warm espresso hue.
This limited-edition jacket is made by Golden Bear, so you can count on exceptional good old American construction and perfect leather. It’s a deceivingly simple jacket with several thoughtful details, including expandable wrist cuffs and a stylish leather tassel pull.
Price: $1,180 $1,003
Billy Reid Blake Jacket
The Billy Reid Blake’s trucker-like cut makes it a truly distinct leather jacket. Even more, the buttery lamb leather is exquisitely oiled, allowing light to hit in a variety of ways all at once. The result is a full-on visual feast. Different parts of the surface can look pebbled, or shiny and smooth, or matte, depending on the angle.
It’s an overall chic and urban look. Despite its adaptable design, a lot of character shines through elements like its signature heirloom ribbon stripe zipper pulls and its charming pelican lining.
Price: $1,298
Belstaff Centenary Outlaw Pro Motorcycle Jacket
The Centenary Outlaw Pro Motorcycle Jacket by Belstaff has a very James Bond quality about it. Its fit and cut are slim but not skinny, combining handsome sophistication with undeterred functionality. The design is modeled after one of Belstaff’s archive pieces, which explains many of its distinguishing features.
You don’t see a lot of D30 shoulders on leather jackets these days. Yet, the quilted shoulder and elbow armor pads on both arms are as pragmatic as they are attractive. Leave it to Belstaff not to leave best practices in the past. And, of course, the flawless full-grain leather construction is accented with impeccable gunmetal hardware, maximizing the style-to-function ratio.
Price: $1,495
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