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If you haven't already purchased a jacket I would certainly consider a textile jacket of some type. I have the HD Heritage and love it. I took the armor out of the jacket so that it fits in tomy saddle bags easier, it's lighter than leather and very comfortable. Zip out liner that is very warm. I have worn this jacket down into the 30's with just a t-shirt and sweatshirt and was warm for my 60 mile commute.
A good leather jacket is as much safety device as weather protection. No textile will hold up like leather in a skid, don't ask me how I know!
After 7 years of use, my Wilson's (About $ 250.00) jacket is still good-looking (okay, I treated it once with Doc's leather care w/dye), heavy-grade hideand functional with it's thermal zip-out liner. I don't like their chaps and prefer the FXRP Harley versions. Unfortunately, Wilson's has decided to discontinue motorcycle gear in my area. I like the San Diego Leather (www.leather.com) products mentioned above.
As a D.A.V. I do my best to support American products. It is hard at times and some things as just not American made. It may cost a little more but the quailty is always top notch. I support Fox Creek products. I am not saying you should buy American it's your money spend it like you want to.
There are may companys making good leather products with good support and service.
Vanson, I have one horsehide and one steerhide. Had the horsehide for a year now and still not fully broken in, but I love it.
A lot of jackets look like good quality, and its not the leather that willusually let you down, but the stitching and zippers. Do however make sure you buy a jacket with no less than 1.2mm leather.
Sometimes stuff is expensive for a reason.....................
Fox Creek makes some of the best stuff I personally have ever seen.....their customer service cant be beat, and their stuff is made here in the USA. It aint cheep.....but it is quality that will last a very long time. Even though I like Fox Creek's stuff more than just about any other, I am always willing to give other brands a try, and I think next Fall/Winter, I may just get me another leather jacket.....so far Langlitz, Vanson, and Schott NYC are on my short list.
If you want the best of the best in leather motorcycle jackets, then go here: www.langlitz.com. They have been in the business of leather motorcycle jackets since 1947 in Portland,OR. They do custom made leather motorcycle jackets. You can choose the the type of leather and select from a number of options. You will be amazed! They are custom fitted to your body for motorcycle riding. The do have a selection of stock and used jackets or returned jackets. They will actually buy your jacket back in the future if you want to get rid of it. They are that good! ! They will last a lifetime! But be prepared! ! ! ! You get what you pay for. We are talking in the $1000 category. You can spend more and you can spend a little less. My son moved to Portland in 2001 and I read about this store when I was planning to visit him in 2002. I visited this store when I was there in 2002, butI was married at the time and the wife would have gone bullistic if I even considered buying one. I separated in 2003 and in 2004 visited my sone again and I ordered my jacket. It is by far the best motorcycle jacket you will find anywhere. Made in a small shop in Portlan, OR. Alos, you can mail order the custom fit. They will provide you with the hot-to measure instructions, but the best part is these jackets are guaranteed, period. If you do not like it or the fit is not right, just return for full refund or an adjustment to the fit. You can not go wrong with this jacket.
Just bought a HD Nevada jacket on Ebay. The only HD logo's are on the snap buttons and a small metal zipper pull. Very nice mid-weight jacket with zippered vents front and back and a quilted removeable liner. Chicago Harley Davidson still lists and sells this jacket for around $368 (that is with their 20% discount). Wanted the FXRG but way to pricey. The Nevada is more "Old School" with modern features like nylon zippers and velcro closures on the outside pockets. Leather is mid-weight but still heavy. Won the bid on Ebay for $255, jacket only worn 3 times. I also have a very nice braided buffalo nicketvest from Fox Creek, real quality heavy leather and well made. I understand that their jackets are of the same quality.
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