Used Jacket Rant
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 35,799
Likes: 38,572
From: Post Falls, ID
Tight also prevents ballooning and that Michelin Man look.
Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 715
Likes: 114
From: Texas Hill Country
I have now bought, from members on this forum, two used leather jackets in anticipation of the coming cooler weather and am not entirely satisfied with either. Both are genuine made-in-America jackets and probably weigh 10+ pounds each. The manufacturing of each is excellent, the problem is both are small. Both are size large, but every thing I wear is a large, and both of these jackets, while wearable, are small. Do motorcycle jackets, like British-made clothing, run small (by American standards)? One of the jackets has a two-way zipper to allow opening from the bottom, the other does not; providing for the Dolly Parton (man-*****) effect, bunching up over the chest. I live in a small hick-type town and the nearest motorcycle shop in which one could buy a chinese leather jacket is about 60 miles away. I swear, I'll ride nekked before I buy another piece of wearable gear over the internet. Thank you for your patience; rant over...
Best/joe
Thread Starter
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Road Master
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 902
Likes: 227
From: Mississippi
Thanks all for your comments. The guys who gave good advice and those who thought me stupid for buying a jacket over the internet. You haven't told me anything I didn't know except that jackets are supposed to be tight. This makes me feel better. I am about 6'1" and 193 pounds, 36 waist. I wore an XL Harley vented nylon jacket during the spring and summer because the large was tight. Now I know it is supposed to be tight. One of my jackets is a Fox Creek and the other is a Harley brand. (Made in USA, tells you how old it is) The craftsmanship on both is top-shelf. I appreciate the tips and advice and perhaps someone out there will benefit from your knowledge before buying a jacket w/o trying it on first. Regards all, JD.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 6,235
Likes: 65
From: Joliet, Illinois
I can't even fathom why you'd even want to buy a "right" sized jacket to wear on your bike. Around here, I am likely to wear layers a good part of the year (spring, fall & winter). I wear a large. All my jackets are XXL.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 28,842
Likes: 16,582
From: Wisconsin, USA
I bought a Hillside jacket. 44long. Same as my suit size. It fits a little tight in the waist. Most modern clothes have a relaxed fit. I assume motorcycle jackets are tighter, with a more traditional fit.
I remember that jacket, because I was hoping it would fit my son. The seller said it was snug.
I remember that jacket, because I was hoping it would fit my son. The seller said it was snug.
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Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 139
Likes: 16
From: Houston, TX
I read this yesterday on the bus on the way home, knowing I had a used jacket in the doorstep. Turned out perfect but I did plan ahead- I know I wear a medium to a large in Harley jackets after trying a couple on in the dealer over the years. I ordered a medium because realistically if I need more than a leather jacket and under armour cold gear Im probably not riding because it will be 75 the next day here in Houston. Fit perfect, just have to do your research.
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 578
Likes: 60
From: New Jersey