Classic Motorcycle Jackets

 

The classic motorcycle jacket as we know it first came on the scene in 1928 in the form of the double sided Perfecto, manufactured by Schott NYC. Through the years the Perfecto style has been morphed and perfected in many ways, but the basic classic style, which has become known as traditional, remains the same.

The popularity of the classic motorcycle jacket has waxed and waned with the public, getting its first boost in 1958 by Marlon Brando in the film "The Wild Ones", with subsequent appearances in such iconic works as Westside Story, Grease, various films by teen idol James Dean, and in more recent times as the garment of choice for the Fonz.

While fashion trends and fads will reappear and fade, for the biker community, the classic motorcycle jacket's popularity relies not on style, but on practicality.

Traditional style motorcycle jackets have become classic mainly because the material they are made of, leather, is and remains the best form of protection from the elements, and most importantly, provides a second layer of skin between the biker and the rough surface of an asphalt road. The better the grade of leather, the less likely it is to shred under extreme conditions, thus the term "riding grade" leather.

Of course, leather jackets can be made into many different styles, but what makes the classic motorcycle jacket unique for bikers is that it tends to the bikers needs. Plenty of storage in the form of cargo pockets, inside pockets, and the generous use of zippers to secure your stuff in pockets, to open or close air vents and sleeve cuffs, to tightly close the jacket on cold rides, and to discard an inside lining in the warmer months.

The modern classic motorcycle jacket is designed with an eye on the various positions a biker might find himself in. Slightly longer arm length provides for a more comfortable ride when leaning forward, as bikers so often do, and the backs of the jackets provide for some extra length so they don't ride up in the same position. The use of side laces makes for a snugger, warmer fit in the cold months, and stretch panels in strategic locations provide for ease of movement.

Classic motorcycle jackets can also come with a belt, or not, or may alternatively employ side buckles to get a tighter fit. Belts are more often than not half belts, buckling in the front, with some jackets having a full removable belt, complete with belt loops.

Our classic motorcycle jackets by Unik International come in all grades of leather. For those who are more into fashion than riding, many of our classic styles are available in our premium top grain light weight leather.

Our classic riding grade motorcycle jackets start with premium buffalo and cowhide, and continue up to the ultra naked leather, anywhere from 1.2 to 1.5 mm thick, depending on the style.