10 Best Leather Jackets for Men: 2025 Buyer's Guide
Leather jackets are easily one of the most iconic fall layers.
They look great and get better with age.
In this guide, I’m going to show you 10 of the best leather jackets for this fall.
I’ve personally tested and researched each jacket. And I’ve scored them based on material quality, construction, style, and value.
Let’s get started.
What to Look For in A Leather Jacket
Before we get to the jackets, let me quickly explain what makes a great leather jacket.
Here are the four key factors I use to evaluate every leather jacket:
Material Quality (MQ)
This is the kind/type of leather you’re dealing with.
Cowhide? Steerhide? Lambskin?
The material makes a huge difference in how the jacket feels and ages.
Construction & Durability (CD)
Look at the stitching. Check the zippers and snaps. Feel the lining.
A well-made jacket should have strong seams in key areas (like the shoulders, cuffs, and along the zipper), quality hardware (such as YKK zippers), and tight, even stitching all around.
Style & Design (SD)
Does the jacket look good? Will it still look good in five years?
I focus on timeless designs that won’t go out of style next season.
Fit matters too. A leather jacket should fit your body naturally.
Value for Money (VM)
You don’t need to spend $2,000 to get a great leather jacket.
But you also can’t expect a $150 jacket to last forever.
This factor is about whether the quality of a leather jacket matches its price tag.
Each leather jacket below gets scored out of 10 in all four categories.
Then I’ll give it an overall score.
This makes it super easy to compare jackets at a glance.
Makes sense?
Great. Let’s look at the jackets.
The 10 Best Leather Jackets for Men
After a lot of testing and digging around, these are my top 10 picks.
1. Best Overall – Schott NYC 618 Perfecto Leather Jacket
Material Quality: 10/10
Construction & Durability: 10/10
Style & Design: 9/10
Value for Money: 9/10
Overall Score: 9.5/10
$970
Schott NYC
The Schott 618 Perfecto is basically the gold standard.
Why?
First off, the leather. Schott uses thick steerhide, which is tougher and more durable than cowhide. This jacket probably outlives you if you take care of it.
The construction is where Schott stands out. Every stitch is clean and tight. The zippers are robust and heavy-duty. And the insulated nylon quilted lining is comfortable and soft against your skin.
While the Schott 618 is excellent, it’s not for everyone.
Here are things you need to know about it:
This jacket is pretty stiff when new, because of the thick steerhide. But it breaks in and develops a patina over time.
The fit is true to the original 1960s design, which means it’s slightly cropped (around the waist) and boxy. Some guys love it. Others prefer something more modern and fashion-oriented (more on that in a sec).
At around $1000, it’s not cheap. But when you divide that cost over 20+ years of wear? That’s roughly $50 per year.
2. Best Budget Leather Jacket – Thursday Boot Company Racer Jacket
Material Quality: 7/10
Construction & Durability: 7/10
Style & Design: 8/10
Value for Money: 9/10
Overall Score: 7.75/10
$349
Thursday Boot Company
Not everyone wants to drop a grand on their first leather jacket.
I get it.
That’s where Thursday Boot Company comes in.
This Racer Jacket costs around $350.
And for that price? You’re getting way more than you’d expect.
The leather is soft lambskin. It’s not as durable and rugged as steerhide, but it’s still premium leather and lasts for years if you take care of it properly.
What I love the most about this jacket is the fit.
Its modern slim cut gives you enough space to throw on a sweater or hoodie when it’s chilly, though it’s not loose enough for heavy layering in deep winter.
That being said:
For $350, this jacket punches way above its weight class.
Most jackets at this price point use genuine leather. Thursday Boot Company uses hand-finished full-grain lambskin leather.
3. Best Luxury Leather Jacket – Billy Reid Blake Jacket
Material Quality: 9/10
Construction & Durability: 9/10
Style & Design: 10/10
Value for Money: 7/10
Overall Score: 8.75/10
$1,398
Billy Reid
If you want something a little more refined than a moto jacket, go with the Billy Reid Blake.
It’s a luxury piece that fits where a Perfecto might feel too aggressive, like nice dinners, offices, and date nights.
This jacket is made from black-washed lambskin leather; it’s supple, lightweight, and feels broken-in from day one.
The construction quality is excellent, too. Antique brass hardware. Premium silk lining that feels soft and smooth on the skin. Thoughtful details like the pelican motif and ribbon zipper pulls.
The Blake has a classic riding-jacket shape with a modern slim fit. It’s the kind of jacket you can dress up or down.
Jeans and boots? Works.
Chinos and loafers? Also works.
At around $1,400, it’s definitely an investment. But if you want a luxury leather jacket that leans more refined than rugged, this is the one.
Note: Lambskin is softer and more delicate than cowhide or steerhide. It’ll show wear faster. Some guys love that lived-in look. Others prefer something tougher. Know which camp you’re in before buying.
4. Best Leather Moto Jacket – Vanson Model C2 Brando Jacket
Material Quality: 10/10
Construction & Durability: 10/10
Style & Design: 8/10
Value for Money: 8/10
Overall Score: 9/10
$769
Vanson
If Schott makes amazing leather jackets, Vanson makes jackets that feel like tanks.
Seriously.
The Vanson C2 is built like armor. This is what you want if you actually ride motorcycles or just want the toughest jacket money can buy.
Vanson uses competition weight steerhide, the same leather they make for professional motorcycle racers. It’s thick and stiff at first. And it will protect you better than almost any other jacket out there.
The construction is next level.
You get heavy brass hardware, a full belt with a removable buckle, and a bi-swing back for better movement on or off the bike.
The sleeves zip tight to block wind, and the quilted lining keeps things comfortable without bulk.
There’s even a snap system for adding a Streamliner vest if you want to extend its range for colder rides.
Here’s what makes the C2 special:
It’s made in Fall River, Massachusetts, by actual craftspeople. Each jacket is cut and sewn by hand. You can even customize things like leather type, color, hardware, lining, and more.
The fit is classic American, which means it’s a bit roomier than most European fits. There’s space to layer, move, and ride.
At around $800 (depending on options), it’s slightly cheaper than the Schott 618, but Vanson offers more customization.
Bottom line: If you ride or want maximum durability, get a Vanson. If you want something that fits slimmer or feels softer right away, look for something else.
5. Best Leather Bomber Jacket – Cockpit USA 100 Mission A-2 Jacket
Material Quality: 8/10
Construction & Durability: 8/10
Style & Design: 9/10
Value for Money: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.25/10
$680
Cockpit USA
Bomber jackets have a completely different vibe than motorcycle jackets.
Less rock ‘n’ roll. More… Steve McQueen.
The A-2 is the classic bomber. It was made for WWII pilots and’s been a menswear icon ever since.
The leather is antique-finished lambskin. It’s softer and more pliable than cowhide right out of the box.
What I love about this jacket:
- The knit cuffs and waistband create that iconic bomber look
- It fits true to size with room to layer
- The snap-flap pockets are actually functional
The construction quality is solid. Not quite Vanson-level ‘bulletproof’, but definitely durable enough for decades of regular wear.
At around $600-700, it’s positioned between the Thursday (budget) and Schott (premium) options. Which feels about right for what you’re getting.
Who should buy this? Guys who want a classic leather jacket that looks sharp but not aggressive. It’s more versatile than a Perfecto or Model C2. Looks great in both casual and smart-casual outfits.
6. Best Leather Café Racer Jacket – Belstaff V Racer Jacket
Material Quality: 9/10
Construction & Durability: 9/10
Style & Design: 10/10
Value for Money: 6/10
Overall Score: 8.5/10
$975
Belstaff
Café racer jackets are Europe’s answer to American motorcycle jackets.
Slimmer. More streamlined. Less hardware.
The Belstaff V Racer is undoubtedly one of the most iconic racer jackets out there.
This British brand has been making motorcycle gear since 1924. They know what they’re doing.
The leather is Sheepskin. It’s slightly rougher than lambskin, but also more durable and hardy.
The cut is athletic and trim, much slimmer than American styles. It’s designed to look good on a motorcycle or off it.
- The band collar (no lapels) keeps the look clean
- Minimal hardware for a streamlined aesthetic
- Channel-stitched shoulders add strength and durability
- British fit runs slim, size up if you’re between sizes
Here’s the catch:
At around $1,000, the V Racer is expensive.
Is it worth it?
If you love the café racer style and want the best version of it? Yes.
If you’re price-sensitive, there are more affordable alternatives, such as the Thursday Boot Company Racer Jacket.
Bottom line: This is THE café racer jacket. But the price tag means it’s not for everyone.
7. Best Suede Jacket – Todd Snyder Italian Suede Dylan Jacket
Material Quality: 8/10
Construction & Durability: 8/10
Style & Design: 10/10
Value for Money: 7/10
Overall Score: 8.25/10
$998
Todd Snyder
Not every leather jacket needs to be smooth and shiny.
Sometimes you want something more textured. More fall-appropriate.
Enter: suede.
The Todd Snyder Dylan Jacket is hands-down one of the best suede jackets I’ve tested. The Italian suede is soft with a beautiful nap.
What makes this jacket special?
It’s cut like a trucker jacket, which means it’s more casual and versatile than most leather jackets. You can throw it on with anything.
The fit runs true to size. Not boxy. Not slim. Balanced.
The construction is strong for a fashion label. Premium leather. Solid stitching. Quality hardware.
A few things to know about suede:
- It’s not as durable as smooth leather
- It stains more easily (treat it with protector spray)
- It’s not great in wet weather
- But it looks incredible and feels amazing
At around $1,000, it’s priced competitively with the Schott 618. But you’re paying for Italian suede and Todd Snyder’s design aesthetic.
Who should buy this? Guys who want a premium leather jacket that feels more casual and autumnal.
Note: The body’s unlined, which keeps it light and breathable, just don’t count on it for cold-weather warmth.
8. Best Casual Leather Jacket – AllSaints Nates Jacket
Material Quality: 7/10
Construction & Durability: 7/10
Style & Design: 9/10
Value for Money: 8/10
Overall Score: 7.75/10
$719
AllSaints
Sometimes you just want a leather jacket you can grab on the way out the door without thinking about it.
That’s the AllSaints Nates.
This British brand has a reputation for making modern, well-designed leather jackets that aren’t overly garish.
The Nates is made from 100% cow leather with natural texture and soft feel.
And because it’s based on a denim jacket design, it has the same denim style collar and button-front closure.
It’s basically a denim jacket, but made from leather.
What I like about this jacket:
- The minimal design works with everything
- It layers easily over hoodies and sweaters
- Thoughtful details. Like cuffs that can be worn closed or open based on preference
The construction is good for the price point (around $700). Not heirloom quality. But solid enough to last 5-10 years with normal wear.
Who should buy this? Guys who want a straightforward, everyday leather jacket that feels natural and effortless.
9. Best Vegan Leather Jacket – Deadwood River Cactus Biker Jacket
Material Quality: 6/10
Construction & Durability: 7/10
Style & Design: 8/10
Value for Money: 8/10
Overall Score: 7.25/10
$635 $985
Deadwood
Not everyone wants to wear animal leather. And that’s totally fine.
The Deadwood River jacket is made from cactus leather. Yes, you read that right. CACTUS.
It’s made from organically grown cactus and looks and feels surprisingly close to animal leather. It has texture, grain, and character. It’s not that type of vegan leather that’s obviously plastic.
That being said.
The material quality score is lower because, let’s be honest, it’s not the same as animal leather, even though it gets close in look and feel. It won’t age the same way. It won’t last 30 years.
The construction is solid. Good stitching. Heavy duty IDEAL zippers. Solid metal snaps.
And what impressed me most was the lining, which is made from recycled plastic bottles.
It’s really made with sustainability in mind.
Even though it’s a biker jacket, the true-to-size fit gives it a more modern, refined look than the traditional looser biker fit.
The price is $635, down from its original $985.
Is it worth it?
If you’d rather avoid animal leather and want something eco-friendly and authentic instead of plastic-looking, then yes.
If you want a leather jacket that lasts 20+ years, no.
Bottom line: This is the best vegan leather jacket I’ve found. Period. If you don’t want animal leather, start here.
10. Best Designer Leather Jacket – Rick Owens Bauhaus Stooges Slim-Fit Biker Jacket
Material Quality: 9/10
Construction & Durability: 9/10
Style & Design: 10/10
Value for Money: 4/10
Overall Score: 8/10
$5,705
Mr Porter
This jacket costs almost $6,000.
For some of us, that’s insane. For others, it’s exactly what they’re looking for.
Rick Owens makes fashion pieces for that exact crowd.
And that’s why the Value for Money score is low. It’s not for people who care about getting the best deal, which is most of us.
The Bauhaus Stooges jacket has an exaggerated, architectural silhouette that not everyone loves.
But that’s what makes it unmistakably Rick Owens. The proportions are weird in the best way possible.
It’s made in Italy from non-stretch horse leather. They use this process called tamponatura, where the color and wax are added after tanning, so every jacket ends up with its own unique finish that fades beautifully over time.
It’s designed with classic biker details like epaulettes, snap lapels, and a buckled waist. And it’s fully lined for extra warmth.
It runs small. Go up one size from your usual, or two if you’ve got broad shoulders.
Who should buy this? Fashion people who see clothing as art. Or collectors seeking a true designer piece.
Who shouldn’t buy this? Anyone looking for their first or only leather jacket. And anyone who cares primarily about value.
This is a niche pick. But for the right person, nothing else will do.
How to Style A Leather Jacket
Alright, so you’ve picked out a jacket.
Now, let’s quickly go over how to wear it.
The Classic Look:
- Black leather jacket
- White t-shirt or Henley
- Dark denim
- Chelsea boots or combat boots
This is the foundation. Master this first.
Smart Casual:
- Brown or tan leather jacket (like the Billy Reid)
- Oxford shirt
- V-neck sweater (for colder weather)
- Chinos
- Leather sneakers or loafers
Works for dates, casual Fridays, or dinner out.
Layered for Fall:
- Any leather jacket
- Hoodie underneath
- Jeans
- Leather boots or white sneakers
The hoodie-under-leather-jacket combo never fails.
Care & Maintenance Tips
You just spent hundreds (or thousands) on a leather jacket.
Now you need to take care of it.
The good news is it’s easier than you think.
For A Smooth Leather Jacket:
Wipe it down a few times a year with a damp cloth. Use a leather conditioner like Lexol once or twice a year, more often if you wear it a lot.
Hang it on a wide hanger so the shoulders keep their shape, and don’t fold it.
Keep it out of direct sun and away from heaters so it doesn’t fade or dry out.
For A Suede/Nubuck Jacket:
Use a suede brush to keep the nap looking fresh. Brush in one direction and go easy.
Spray it with a protector before the first wear; it helps block dirt and moisture.
Use a suede eraser for small marks.
If it gets wet, just let it air dry.
For oil spots, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda overnight, then brush it off.
General Tips:
- Get caught in the rain? Let it air dry naturally. Then condition it
- Zippers sticking? Rub a candle or graphite pencil on the teeth. Works like magic
- Smells weird? Hang it outside (not in direct sun) for a few hours. If that doesn’t work, sprinkle baking soda inside overnight
- Breaking in a stiff jacket? Wear it. A lot. That’s it. The more you wear it, the faster it molds to your body
- Professional cleaning: Only when absolutely necessary. Find a leather specialist, not a regular dry cleaner
Bottom line: Leather is tougher than you think. A little care keeps it looking great for years.
Final Buying Tips
Before you click “Add to Cart,” read this section.
These tips will save you from buyer’s remorse.
Sizing
Leather jackets should fit snug (but not tight) across the shoulders when you first buy them. The leather will stretch with wear, and naturally molds to your body shape over time.
Here’s the rule:
If you’re between sizes and plan to layer (hoodies, sweaters), size up.
If you’re between sizes and want a sleeker look, go with your true size.
- You have broad shoulders or a muscular build
- You want to layer heavily
- The jacket is lightweight lambskin (which stretches more)
When to size down:
- The jacket is oversized by design
- You want a slim, fitted look
- The brand runs large (check reviews)
Return Policies:
This is important.
Always buy from places with good return policies. Leather jackets are one of those things you need to try on.
Look for:
- At least 30-day returns
- Free return shipping
- No restocking fees
- Original condition only (don’t cut tags off immediately)
The brands I listed above offer solid return policies. But always double-check before ordering.
When to Buy:
Leather jackets go on sale during:
- End of winter (February-March)
- Black Friday
- End-of-season sales (July-August)
Just know that classics like the Schott 618 almost never get big discounts. If you want one, just buy it.
The Bottom Line
There you have it.
The 10 best leather jackets for men in 2025.
Let’s do a quick recap of the top picks:
Best overall: Schott NYC 618 Perfecto. Classic, stylish, and durable.
Best budget: Thursday Boot Company Racer. Premium quality at a reasonable price.
Best luxury: Billy Reid Blake. For when you want a refined luxury leather jacket.
Best for actual riding: Vanson C2. Built like a tank.
Best bomber: Cockpit USA A-2. Classic military style.
My recommendation?
If you’ve never owned a leather jacket, start with the Thursday Boot Company or Cockpit USA. Get familiar with how leather feels and ages.
If you already have a leather jacket and want to upgrade, step up to Schott or Vanson. These are lifetime pieces.
If money is no object and you want something truly special, Billy Reid or Belstaff are incredible.
And if you’re vegan or want a sustainable option, Deadwood’s cactus leather jacket is the best I’ve found.
Buy once, buy right, and wear it for decades.
Thanks for reading! If you’re feeling the vibe, hit subscribe and get on the list to receive new posts straight in your inbox every week.
