Everybody knows leather jackets are cool, because only people from badly behaved circles wear leather:  rock stars, punks, bikers, S&M enthusiasts.  Well, maybe that last one is a separate category, but you get the idea.  Nothing says masculine, not to mention sexy and stylish, like a supple leather jacket.  One of these iconic items will also take a chunk out of your wallet, so it’s important to know not only how to choose the best style for you, but also how to properly care for and maintain leather.

Different Types Of Skin

There are a many different types and grades of leather, the most common one being top-grain leather.  The motorcycle jacket is a common style and some racing jacket styles have more sportive embellishments that not everyone can pull off unless they actually have a motorcycle.  These are often half length, which contributes to the sportier look as opposed to three-quarter length coats, which look more refined, but are less versatile.

Coats made from suede, whether it is from cows, calves, pigs or sheep, are more often at the three-quarter length, but are more appropriate for fall and winter months as they are too heavy for warmer weather.  Compared to suede and other, softer types of leather made from pigskin, lambskin and calfskin, top-grain cowhide is the best value because it is most resistant to stains, discolouration and other damage and is easiest to care for and maintain.

Different Styles

Black contributes more to the bad boy look, dark browns are still masculine, but less imposing, while lighter shades of brown and tan are brighter, more fashion forward and should contribute to a personal sense of style, whereas black jackets can look good on just about anyone.  If you want something all-purpose that you can wear in nearly any weather, go for a lighter half length, but if you want a warmer coat that you can switch for something lighter when necessary, go for three-quarter lengths.  Bomber-type jackets or shearling coats with wool collars and lining are very stylish, but they will be more difficult to maintain in the long run.