All You need to Know about The History of Motorcycle Leather Jacket

All You need to Know about The History of Motorcycle Leather Jacket

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Back to top

Motorcyclists have been wearing leather jackets for as long as motorcycles have been around.

The first leather jackets were designed and created specifically for motorcyclists, and they served a very specific purpose.

Over time, leather jackets became more popular with the general public, and they were no longer just for motorcyclists.

Today, leather jackets are a fashion statement, and they are worn by people of all ages and from all walks of life.

In this article, we are going to talk about the history of motorcycle leather jackets. Why they started, when they started, and why they continue to be a trend today.

How Did it All Start?

So, how did motorcycle leather jackets become so popular?

It all started with the first leather jacket specifically designed for motorcyclists.

This jacket was created in 1928 by Irving Schott, and it quickly became a hit with riders. The jacket was made of heavyweight horsehide leather, and it featured a zip-up front and a waist belt.

The jacket quickly became known as the "Perfecto," and it remains one of the most popular styles of motorcycle leather jackets to this day.

1950s

In the 1950s, Marlon Brando popularized the motorcycle leather jacket in the film "The Wild One." In the film, Brando's character wears a black leather jacket with a white T-shirt underneath. The look was quickly adopted by real-life motorcyclists, and it remains a popular choice for riders today.

the history of motorcycle leather jacket

Marlon Brando popularized the motorcycle leather jacket in the film "The Wild One."

1960s

In the 1960s, the British rock band The Who popularized the use of leather jackets in their music and stage performances. The band members often wore tight-fitting, waist-length leather jackets that showed off their muscular build. These jackets quickly became a symbol of rebellion and freedom, and they remain a popular choice among motorcyclists today.

the history of biker leather jacket

British rock band The Who popularized the use of leather jackets in their music and stage performances

The 1970s - 1980s

In the 1970s and 1980s, motorcycle leather jackets became more mainstream. They were no longer just for motorcycle riders; now, they were worn by people from all walks of life. This was in part due to the popularity of films like "The Wild One" and "Easy Rider."

In these films, motorcycle leather jackets were shown as symbols of rebellion and freedom. This appealed to many people, and it helped to make motorcycle leather jackets more popular with the general public.

1970s-1980s motorcycle leather jackets

In the 1970s and 1980s, motorcycle leather jackets get more popular.

Present Day

Today, motorcycle leather jackets are still a popular choice for riders and non-riders alike. They are stylish and practical, and they can be worn in any season.

They are worn by celebrities, fashionistas, and everyday people. They are available in a wide range of styles, from classic to modern. And they are made from a variety of materials, including leather, suede, and denim.

Whether you're looking for a jacket to wear on your motorcycle or one to wear out on the town, a motorcycle leather jacket is a great choice.

motorcycle leather jacket in the present

What Has Changed About Motorcycle Leather Jackets

Over the years, motorcycle leather jackets have undergone a few changes. The most significant change is the addition of safety features, such as armor in the shoulders and elbows.

This armor helps to protect riders from injuries in the event of a fall or collision.

Another change is the move from natural materials to synthetic materials. In the past, most motorcycle leather jackets were made of natural materials like cowhide, horsehide, goatskin or lambskin.

The final change is the move from heavy, bulky jackets to lighter, more streamlined jackets. In the past, motorcycle leather jackets were often very heavy and bulky.

This made them difficult to wear for long periods of time, and it made it hard for riders to move around while wearing them.

wearing leather motorcycle jackets

Today, however, many jackets are made of synthetic materials like nylon or polyester.

These synthetic materials are often lighter and more comfortable than natural materials, and they offer a number of benefits to riders.

The Benefits Of Wearing A Motorcycle Leather Jacket

There are a number of benefits to wearing a motorcycle leather jacket. First, leather is a very strong and durable material.

It can help to protect riders from the elements, and it can also help to protect them from injuries in the event of a fall or collision.

Second, leather is a very breathable material. This means that it will help to keep riders cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Third, leather is a very stylish material. Leather jackets never go out of style, and they can be worn with a variety of different looks.

Why Do People Continue To Wear Motorcycle Leather Jackets

motorcycle leather jacket wearing by men

Motorcycle leather jackets are popular for a number of reasons.

First, they are functional. They can help to protect riders from the elements and from injuries.

Second, they are stylish. Leather jackets never go out of style, and they can be worn with a variety of different looks.

Third, they are comfortable. Leather is a very breathable material, and it will help to keep riders cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Fourth, motorcycle leather jackets have a bit of a rebellious image. They are associated with freedom and with the open road. For many people, this image is very appealing.

Fifth, motorcycle leather jackets are simply cool. There is something about a leather jacket that just makes you look tough and edgy. If you want to look like a bad-ass, then a motorcycle leather jacket is the way to go.

Ultimately, motorcycle leather jackets are popular because they are functional, stylish, comfortable, and cool. They have been popular for decades, and they are likely to remain popular for many years to come.

Conclusion

motorcycle leather jacket for women

Motorcycle leather jackets are popular for a number of reasons. They are functional, stylish, comfortable, and cool.

They have been popular for decades, and they are likely to remain popular for many years to come. If you're looking for a stylish and practical jacket to wear on your motorcycle or out on the town, a motorcycle leather jacket is a great choice.

Older Post Back to About Leather Newer Post