The 14 best leather jackets for men in 2024, according to style editors
By Cindy HopkinsJanuary 17, 202412 mins read68 Views
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When picturing a favorite leading man outfit, I remember Richard Roundtree as Detective Shaft in his iconic brown leather jacket walking around Times Square circa 1971. A fine leather jacket issues confidence the way not many other garments can. The best leather jackets for men come in a few main styles: the biker, the bomber, the racer, the flight, and the field. Defined by shape, cut, zipper placement, lining, and collar, any version will bring a unique edge to your jacket rotation.
Below, we've curated a variety of these core styles in a range of price points. One top pick is the new Huckberry x Wythe collaboration on a vintage-inspired ranch jacket. For style minimalists, we recommend the Quince Harrington Jacket, available for under $200.
Our picks are all true leather, which means their price tags are slightly higher than their faux counterparts. That also means that, with proper care, they'll last for years.
Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches style products.
Our top picks of the best leather jackets for men
Quince 100% Leather Harrington Jacket - See at Quince This minimalist jacket is tanned at a sustainable production facility and can match any style, all at a competitive price.
Overland Christian Quilted Italian Lambskin Leather Coat - See at Overland Featuring quilted lambskin leather, the Overland Christian has a classic styling with premium materials.
Belstaff Axis Jacket - See at Ssense As an elevated take on the classic men's puffer, the Belstaff Axis Jacket is made with a supple, yet water-resistant napa leather.
AllSaints Regis Contrast Stitched Leather Jacket - See at AllSaints Between its timeless styling and 100% sheep leather, the AllSaints Regis is a leather jacket you'll be able to wear comfortably out-of-box and for decades to come.
Superdry Knitted Collar Leather Bomber Jacket - See at Amazon This monochromatic bomber has a high collar to turn up at any unexpected cold breezes.
Dunhill Leather Bomber Jacket - See at Dunhill British luxury brand Dunhill delivers a handsome, contemporary take on the classic bomber.
Wilsons Leather Toby Leather Jacket - See at Wilsons Leather This buttery soft leather bomber has three exterior zippered pockets and two hidden interior pockets.
Ralph Lauren Leather Flight Jacket - See at Ralph Lauren Packed with patina, the Ralph Lauren Leather Flight Jacket has the worn-in look of a garment that's decades old.
Cockpit USA Vintage Leather Naval Officer's Coat - See at Cockpit USA Look and feel like an admiral in the long cut of the Cockpit USA Vintage Leather Naval Officer's Coat.
Thursday Boot Co. Motorcycle Jacket - See at Thursday Boot Co. Fair prices and excellent craftsmanship make the Thursday Motorcycle Jacket a great alternative to designer jackets with steeper price tags.
Huckberry x Wythe Feathered Lambskin Ranch Jacket - See at Huckberry This exclusive collaboration between Huckberry and Wythe New York is a vintage-inspired trucker jacket with a timeless flair.
Todd Snyder Burnished Leather Dylan Jacket - See at Todd Snyder Cut like your favorite denim trucker, but done in all leather, the Todd Synder Burnished Leather Dylan Jacket is both casual and super premium.
Dainese Racing 4 Leather Jacket - See at Dainese The Dainese Racing 4 Leather Jacket can be worn on the track with your favorite jeans and sneakers for a sporty Euro racer look.
Vanson Leathers Original Star Racing Jacket - See at Vanson Leathers When it comes to motorcycle leathers, Vanson is one of the most iconic brands in existence.
Quince 100% Leather Harrington Jacket
Size options: S-XXL
Quince's Harrington jacket has a classic silhouette suited for those who prefer a leather jacket with an understated look. It's a remarkably affordable price for genuine leather, and makes a great gift for anyone on your list that isn't keen on any bells an whistles in their wardrobe. The direct-to-consumer brand manages to keep its prices low by sourcing this biodegradable leather directly from a tannery certified by the Leather Working Group, using less energy & water than typical manufacturers.
The Harrington is lined with poly satin and made in a facility compliant with the Business Social Compliance Initiative, an organization that strives to maintain safe and ethical labor practices throughout the production cycle. The brand makes every effort to reduce waste, so you can expect the Harrington to arrive on your doorstep in minimal packaging.
Read more in our full Quince review.
Overland Christian Quilted Italian Lambskin Leather Coat
Sizing options: 36-54
If you're looking for a comfortable, durable, and stylish jacket with three-season wearability, the Overland Christian Quilted Lambskin Leather Coat might be for you.
The coat is hand made in Turkey using a smooth, yet durable Italian lambskin leather. The design features a high collar, and a zippered front construction, contrasting pockets, and most noticeably, a beautiful diamond-quilted pattern.
Its understated color may not be eye-catching, but the diamond quilted pattern is what really draws you in. This coat will pair well with most business casual styles in your wardrobe.
Belstaff Axis Jacket
Sizing options: 44-60
Puffer jackets probably aren't the first style to come to mind when searching for leather jackets, but if you're looking for a truly unique design to wear during the fall and winter, the Belstaff Axis Jacket is it.
Featuring an at-the-waist cut, a full front zip, high neck collar, and padded baffles, the Belstaff Axis combines all of the key elements of a classic winter puffer jacket with the high-end feel of top notch Napa leather.
While you probably won't want to wear this in the harshest winter conditions, the lambskin leather is naturally water-resistant and the polyester down insulation will keep you warm.
At $1,295, the Belstaff Axis Jacket is a splurge item, albeit a worthwhile one for anyone who wants to make a bold fashion statement.
AllSaints Regis Contrast Stitched Leather Jacket
Sizing options: XS-XXL
As one of the most streamlined of all the jackets on this list, the AllSaints Regis Leather Jacket can be worn with almost any outfit. It features a point collar, a full zip, symmetrical chest pockets, and snap fastening at the waist. Its sleek contrast stitching gives the Regis a subtly fashionable detail, which is a nice alternative to more attention-grabbing motorcycle jackets. Its interior lined in polyester keeps the jacket light.
Made from 100% sheepskin leather, you'll find this jacket to be immediately softer and more flexible than jackets made from cowhide leather. If you're looking for a jacket with a shorter break-in period, sheepskin is the way to go.
Superdry Knitted Collar Leather Bomber Jacket
Sizing options: M
Superdry has an extensive men's outerwear collection, which wouldn't be complete with its leather jackets that all exemplify the best parts of the classic style. Their knit bomber is a blacked out, slim-fitting number with a zip closure that goes all the way from the hem to the top of its high collar. It's made with genuine cowhide leather, and features a hidden interior pocket for safekeeping any personal essentials.
Dunhill Leather Bomber Jacket
Sizing options: XS-3XL
A beauty to behold, you can't get more classic than this Italian-made Leather Bomber Jacket. Supple, shiny leather in an inky black color comes together with a two-way zip closure in the front. An overall roomy fit is reigned in by a ribbed collar, a ribbed hem, and ribbed cuffs, which also do a great job of keeping out any wind or rain.
Simple in its design, this leather bomber is infinitely wearable. Throw it on over a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, or dress it up with a sweater and chinos for a dinner date. No matter which way you wear it, you can be confident that its classic style will stay relevant for years to come, making it an excellent investment piece to enjoy and pass on.
Wilsons Leather Drew Accordian Jacket
Sizing options: XS-XXL
This effortlessly cool best-selling jacket from Wilsons Leather is simple on its face, but is especially useful due to how much storage space it offers. Instead of carrying your everyday essentials in a backpack, the Toby jacket lets you keep your items close and secure with its three exterior zippered pockets, including two for your hands and one on its left arm. Each sleeve has a quilted pattern on the elbows, allowing a more free range of motion.
Inside, there's one zippered pocket and one snap-closure pocket where you can easily access your earbuds or wallet. It has a relaxed fit, so you can comfortably layer up with a hoodie underneath without feeling constricted.
Ralph Lauren Leather Flight Jacket
Size options: XS-XXL
Inspired by vintage military flight jackets, Ralph Lauren's Leather Flight Jacket is one of the best choices for anyone interested in both a genuine aged look and elevated style. It's crafted from vegetable tanned full-grain leather in unique medium brown color called Teak.
The jacket features a collared design, two snap-closure front pockets, and wool blend cuffs. Whether you're going for a more polished casual look with a turtleneck and khakis like the model or a more rugged look with hard denim and boots, this Flight Jacket is an excellent choice.
Overall, the jacket runs small and with the nature of leather not having lots of give, we recommend sizing up in this style.
Cockpit USA Vintage Leather Naval Officer’s Coat
Sizing options: XS-3XL
Cockpit USA consistently delivers excellent throwback design — and its Vintage Leather Naval Officer's Coat is no exception. Harkening back to the hard-wearing leather version of naval pea coats, this topper hits below the hip. It also sports specially-treated goatskin leather that is lined with the brand's signature emblem fabric. Double-breasted with military spec buttons, the coat offers an air of authority to the wearer while also helping to withstand the elements.
Its wide lapels can be popped to keep out the wind, while two side-entry pockets keep your hands warm. Two additional front flap pockets also provide storage for your not-so-classified documents. American made, the Naval Officer's Coat is an exceptional piece of craftsmanship you'll be pleased to have for decades to come.
Thursday Boot Co. Motorcycle Jacket
Sizing options: S-XXL
Best known for making boots and dress shoes as good as pairs twice as expensive, Thursday Boot Company applied the same successful direct-to-consumer formula to leather jackets, including a variety of motorsport and military-inspired silhouettes.
Arguably the most popular style from Thursday, the Motorcycle Jacket is made from premium lambskin leather designed to get better with age and features a polyester-lined interior with leather accents for comfort and durability. While the silhouette checks off all the styling cues for anyone looking for a classic motorcycle jacket, it also had added utility. You'll find two zippered hand pockets, a horizontal zippered chest pocket, and two hidden chest pockets on the inside. The zippers are also backed with a lifetime warranty.
At $399, Thursday's Motorcycle Jacket is a great option if you're looking for premium quality but you don't want to venture into designer pricing territory
Read more in our full Thursday Boot Company men's leather jacket review.
Huckberry x Wythe Feathered Lambskin Ranch Jacket
Sizing options: S-XXL
The ranch hand is a symbol of all things Americana, and this Huckberry x Wythe jacket evokes exactly what an authentic heirloom from the old West would look like. This durable unlined lambskin trucker jacket is destined to be the best leather jacket for men worn for generations with the proper care, as it relies on its solid construction without extra bells and whistles. Its distinguishing features are more noticeable upon closer look, such as the leather's sawtooth edge finishes and signature Wythe acorn-shaped pockets.
Todd Snyder Burnished Leather Dylan Jacket
Sizing options: XS-XXL
Everyone should own a denim trucker jacket — they're timeless, easy to style, and incredibly versatile. If you love your cut of your denim jacket, but wish it were more premium, Todd Snyder makes that possible with the Burnished Leather Dylan Jacket.
Here, the takes all of the elements of your favorite trucker and applies it to a leather jacket. Using 100% Italian burnished leather, the Dylan Jacket is soft and supple, yet durable. Silver branded hardware accent the chest pockets and front of the jacket.
Available in dark brown and black, you'll be able to wear the Dylan Jacket with all of your favorite piece.
Dainese Racing 4 Leather Jacket
Sizing options: US34-US54
Founded in 1972, Dainese is an Italian motorcycle gear manufacturer whose influence has been a part of racing for decades. As a modern silhouette, the Racing 4 Leather Jacket is a culmination of the brand's innovations over the years.
Made from the brand's abrasion-resistant, water-repellent, and oil-repellent Tutu leather, the Dainese Racing 4 Leather Jacket is fully-equipped for motorcycle racing. You'll also find aluminum shoulder plates for added protection.
Overall, the jacket is designed to fit tight and snug to give motorcycle riders a secure fit. While the Racing 4 Leather Jacket features Dainese's proprietary S1 bi-elastic fabric and the Microelastic 2.0 leather inserts on the back and arms for improved mobility, you'll want to size up if you're wearing this strictly for style.
Vanson Leathers Original Star Racing Jacket
Sizing options: 32-62
Inspired by the original Vanson Star Racing Jacket from 1975, this retro release features all of the classic elements that Vanson so recognizable. From the Vanson Leathers branding across midsection and sleeve to an assortment of racing patches, this jacket appeals to petrol heads and streetwear aficionados alike.
Made from 100% cowhide leather in a heavy and durable competition weight, this Vanson jacket is rated for racing. You'll find double layers of leather in important areas like the shoulder pads and sleeves. Under arm vent holes and a speedflap for storing your driver's license also make this a wonderful jacket for riders.
Even if you don't ride a motorcycle, you'll appreciate this jacket for its handmade quality and amazing style.
Leather jacket FAQs
What makes leather expensive?
If some of the prices on this list cause you to reconsider your decision to buy a leather jacket, there's a reason high-quality leather jacket options run into the hundreds and thousands of dollars. It primarily has to do with how leather is created.
First, a cow or sheep must be raised — a process that takes at least a year. After harvesting the animal and cleaning its hide, the tanning process, which is the procedure by which leather is changed from skin to the material we know and love, begins. This can take up to a month or more if using a vegetable dye process. From there, the leather must be cut and sewn into a jacket.
All of these steps take an intensive amount of time and resources, which equals a higher price tag. But the good news is, thanks to leather's enduring strength and style, you won't need to buy more than one in your life — unless you want to.
How to care for leather
The way to make your favorite leather jacket last is through proper care.
Unlike your favorite leather boots, a leather jacket isn't typically dragged through the mud and banged against rocks, so you're likely not going to see scrapes or abrasions. For light soiling, simply grab a barely-damp rag and wipe the jacket's exterior. Allow it to dry. If soiling is deep, there are special leather cleaning products, such as saddle soap, that can help provide a deeper clean.
It's also a good idea to give your jacket a needed dose of moisture every year or so. Do this by lightly applying a leather conditioner and then removing any excess. If you find your jacket has totally dried out, is stained, or is otherwise in severe disrepair, seek the guidance of a leather repair professional. Taking these simple steps will ensure your jacket looks and wears well for decades to come.
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By: [email protected] (Amir Ismael,Gabrielle Chase) Title: The 14 best leather jackets for men in 2024, according to style editors Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/guides/style/best-mens-leather-jacket Published Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:58:48 +0000