I'm looking for advice on how to choose a quality leather riding jacket. I've found lots of good reviews for Fox Creek and Roland Sands.

1. Are there places you can go to see these in person (St. Louis)?

2. How do the two brands compare? Anyone owned both and have a specific preference?

3. What about the higher priced jackets at the local Harley Dealership? ($500 +)

 

I have a lot of Fox Creek stuff and all top notch but didn't know Roland made leather goods?

 

The only advice I can give you is to buy one a little larger than you normally wear. Over the years they tend to shrink for some unknown reason.

 

There are no really decent places for leather motorcycle gear in St. Louis. Chuck's Boots in Fenton is as close as you are going to get.

I have 2 Harley leather jackets: the Detonator and the #1 Skull. Both are made very well and look great.

I also have two Schott leather jackets: a 626 and the PER22. Both are EXTREMELY well made, and the PER22 is the one I can ride with.

I would have seriously considered a Fox Creek, but I don't like any of their current styles.

If you are welling to spend serious coin on a leather jacket, everyone's Top 3 American-made seem to be:

Langlitz
Vanson
Schott

 

I have the HD Switchback Leather.

https://www.harley-davidson.com/stor...leather-jacket

Fantastic jacket IF you are careful with the zippers. There is a draft tube between the main zipper and the wind zipper and if you aren't careful, it's easy to get this material stuck in the zipper. The only other complaint I might have is that it's hot, HOT, in warmer weather, and it's HEAVY!!

That said, this is the PPE I would want if I ever took a fall.

 

IMO, If I were you, I would not buy anything online or at the advice of others when it comes to clothing or gear. I would go to a few stores and try on a few jackets and see how they fit and are cut. If you buy blindly you may get lucky but its more probable you will order something that doesn't fit or you find that the cut of the jacket really doesn't work for you and end up returning it or wearing it for a while then selling it. Most motorcycle dealers or leather shops have riding jackets and if there is a rally event or bike night, vendors show up with tents. Also, Harley-branded apparel is going to cost out the gazoo and functionally you really aren't getting anything better. Just something else to consider if you don't want to spend a whole lot but get good quality regardless.

 

I've read a lot about Fox Creek on here but personally, I like to try clothes on before I buy it.

 

Vanson if off the rack usually fits pretty good.
Langlitz if you want the best of the best and custom
Then theres everything else.

Depending on your size ebay has a pretty good selection of vanson jackets. They make a great jacket. Heavy hides made in usa. Langlitz is the best no doubt about it. Ive owned several jackets and my langlitz that i had made is absolutely amazing. I couldve bought two vansons for what it cost but, this ones made for me. If you want some good info on leather jackets check out the fedora lounge forums. Lots of knowledgeable folks there.

 

I have to agree, I really liked my Fox Creek jkt but had to sell it.......over the years the darn thing seemed to shrink.......funny thing is that a lot of my favorite clothes have also shrunk, must be something in the air

 

What size are you? I have some leather jackets that are in great condition that I'm willing to unload at a decent price. PM me if you're interested.