Leather jackets: why and how men should wear them

A leather jacket isn’t officially on the list of wardrobe essentials for men. In our opinion, though, it absolutely should be. In addition to being luxurious and versatile, a well-cut leather jacket will look great for years to come. 

• Opt for durability, comfort and style

It’s important to recognize that leather jackets encompass three crucial qualities: they’re durable, comfortable and impeccably stylish.

First of all, since leather is made of animal skin, it’ll maintain its appearance for a long time, provided you take good care of it by applying a conditioner and protector spray. Furthermore, if you want this piece to be a long-term addition to your wardrobe, be sure to invest in a top-of-the-line model. Experts agree: cheap leather isn’t worth buying. If a jacket of questionable quality catches your eye, it’s best not to waste your money. 

Another interesting fact about leather is that it adapts to the shape of your body over time. In other words, the more you wear a leather jacket, the more supple and fitted it becomes. It’ll practically feel like an extension of your body.

Finally, keep in mind that a leather jacket is a chic and all-purpose garment. For example, you can pair it with a casual shirt and chinos on a dinner date, or with a polo shirt and jeans for an outing in good company. 

• Choose a well-cut, fitted model

Do you want to keep your leather jacket in good condition for as long as possible? If so, you should know that a well-cut, fitted coat will hold up better over the years. It’s important to understand that bulky jackets can be difficult to maintain if you aren’t familiar with the style. As previously mentioned, you have to consider that leather will soften and stretch the more you wear it.

In terms of popular cuts, the biker style (with a pointed collar and asymmetric zips) is quite trendy. That being said, the racer jacket (with a stand-up collar) and aviator jacket (with a shearling collar) remain classic pieces that can enhance any wardrobe.

• Select colours according to the season

In the spring, a navy or cognac jacket with a thin lining are preferred options, as they create less of a bulky look. If you want a lightweight and ultra-soft jacket, opt for lambskin leather. 

One thing is certain: leather jackets are easy to pair with a wide variety of outfits. Plus, if the weather is nice and there’s no rain in the forecast, a jacket rather than a thick coat is the way to go.

In the fall and winter, you’ll want to prioritize warmth. Choose a dark brown or black leather jacket, as these colours absorb heat from the sun, and opt for a thick lining. Keep in mind that a warm jacket doesn’t have to be bulky and hard to move in, so long as you choose the right material. For example, lambskin is naturally softer than cowhide.

If you tend to be rough on your clothes, you might be concerned about damaging a leather jacket. In this case, cowhide and goat hide leather are durable options.

• Take care of your coat

At Ernest, we know that the most common oversight regarding leather jackets is their care and protection. Unlike outerwear made of textiles, leather jackets can crack if they’re not properly maintained. As with your own skin, this material needs to be moisturized (only once a season though). 

What’s more, the weather in Quebec is inconsistent to say the least. For this reason, you need to apply a protective spray to your coat that will provide an invisible shield against the elements. Think of it a bit like the wax you put on a luxury car.

Things to remember

When you’re shopping for a leather jacket, keep these points in mind to ensure you make a wise purchase:

• The quality of the leather makes a difference in the long term, both for durability and comfort.
• A simple, well-cut and fitted jacket will last longer and be easier to pair with various outfits.
• It’s best to opt for a neutral colour, unless you already own such a leather jacket.
• Applying protective products is essential if you want to enjoy your leather jacket for years to come.

Find the perfect leather jacket at Ernest

At Ernest boutiques, you’ll find a wide selection of leather jackets for men in various colours and cuts. If you love leather in all its forms, we also have shoes and belts made of this wonderful material. Take your pick!