What’s your opinion on this CAL jacket? And your take on the overall wearability of this style

[Rick Dalton]

Do you think the condition is good, or should I stay away?

The leather looks pretty creased — I know this type of leather naturally has some wrinkling, but does it seem like more than what you’d expect from a typical CAL? Also, what do you think about the wear on the bottom hem of the jacket? Too much, or just character?

And more generally — what’s your take on the overall wearability of this style?
Are there folks here who actually wear a CAL jacket on a daily basis — not just for riding, but as a piece of heritage clothing? Does it really go with everything, or is it one of those jackets that look great in photos but are hard to wear in real life?


Also, for anyone who owns this type of jacket:
Does it really look as cool in real life as it does in fit pics on Instagram (like the one in the attachment)? Or does it tend to look a lot bulkier in person? I know it depends on sizing, but I’d love to hear honest opinions — Instagram vs. reality in regards in to this jacket.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

 

[Rick Dalton]

Sorry for the photo size — everything should be clearly visible if you zoom in

 

[Boyo]

definitely a wearable jacket, if you're comfortable wearing a cross zip style jacket there isn't much difference with a Cal style PD jacket
Im not a fan of the laces in the back but otherwise if you like it wear it..I dont care about IG

 

[Chevalier]

I have a vintage Cal and Star Glove (the Cal precursor). I love wearing both jackets. I typically wear them with a t shirt, jeans, and boots. I think a good fit is the most important factor for wearing them regularly. Also, I try to make sure a vintage jacket doesn’t have a problem that regular wear is going to exacerbate. I had a little bit of collar seam damage on my Cal caused by a non-Cal mouton collar that that did not fit properly, which the original owner was using on the jacket. Luckily, they fixed it for me in Ventura.

An unexpected problem I have had with this style is where the base of the main zip sits relative to my pants belt. For me, the jacket either needs to sit above my pant waist line or be wide enough at the base to slide easily over my pants belt. It just means keeping track of which jeans play well with which jackets

 

[Herrvallmo]

Super nice jacket with some lovely patina and a great fit!

I think this style of jacket is super wearable! at least I have no problems rockin' my CHP jacket everyday really

 

[AeroFan_07]

Super nice jacket with some lovely patina and a great fit!

I think this style of jacket is super wearable! at least I have no problems rockin' my CHP jacket everyday really

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100% agree - one of the most comfortable styles of jackets I've found yet.

They just work. Don't over-think it.

 

[Herrvallmo]

They just work. Don't over-think it.

^ this

 

[Bennarion]

Great jacket. It fits well.

 

[Albe64]

That jacket seems to fit well on you, but of course you need to feel comfy with the "cross zip style"...I have 3 CALs, 2 cross zip that I wear mainly for riding the bike, and 1 central zip that I wear mostly for hanging out with friends...I have to say that wearing a CHP jackets requires some self-confidence as they make quite a statement... Only suggestion, imho, is to take that collar down...otherwise it's too much

 

[jchance]

Cal CHP is pretty easy to wear unzipped, as long as you don’t pop the collar (that would attract some attention of trying too hard). Wearing it zipped is a bit harder to pair with your outfit.

 

[Doctor Death]

it looks awesome! Love CHP type jackets. You can't go wrong.

 

[Doctor Death]

Cal CHP is pretty easy to wear unzipped, as long as you don’t pop the collar (that would attract some attention of trying too hard). Wearing it zipped is a bit harder to pair with your outfit.

Wearing it zipped is more difficult to match with the rest of your outfit? I always thought it looked way cooler zipped to where the lapel starts to fold, with whatever pants I wear (usually jeans, dark blue, light blue or black). Just opinions, I guess.

 

[bbell909]

100% agree - one of the most comfortable styles of jackets I've found yet.

They just work. Don't over-think it.

Just bought my first Cal, I have tons of jackets, Schotts, Aero etc.. and let me tell you something. For a thick and heavy as it is, super super beefy, it's surprisingly comfortable? I was shocked! Like 25oz IH after a years wear it seems. The room under the arm and sleeve length, they just got it right. I think It may be my daily wear grail jacket.

 

[AeroFan_07]

Just bought my first Cal, I have tons of jackets, Schotts, Aero etc.. and let me tell you something. For a thick and heavy as it is, super super beefy, it's surprisingly comfortable? I was shocked! Like 25oz IH after a years wear it seems. The room under the arm and sleeve length, they just got it right. I think It may be my daily wear grail jacket.

I have also found this to be the case - well stated!

Also Welcome to FL!

 

[bbell909]

Thanks.. been viewing FL for years. Just signed up. On a leather jacket buying spree! Good research here.