Advice on a new jacket

warbird · Dec 4, 2012

I wanted to buy a new bike style jacket. My last one several years ago was destroyed in a crash. I no longer ride. I couldn't decide so I ordered a Fox Creek Grayson. I am usually a 42, but I ordered a 44. I still is too tight. I am wondering if the cafe style is just too form fitting. I like the style, but I don't want a super tight jacket, nor do I need one for riding. I loved the thick leather of my previous jacket years ago and I want a jacket to last a lifetime.

Should I just get a larger size or look at another style?

I already have an Indy style jacket and an 80 yr old HH half belt that was my grandfathers that borders on too small. Opinions?

IXL · Dec 4, 2012

Just call Fox Creek and tell them what you have told us. They are very helpful people and should have some insight as to how you should proced.
Good luck!

Peacoat · Dec 4, 2012

The cafe style is tight fitting, but you can get a larger size to your satisfaction.

Vespizzare · Dec 4, 2012

I don't pretend to know anything; but for what it's worth I have two jackets on the way: one from Johnson Leathers (where I went in person for a fitting) and one from Lost Worlds (where I think they have some really primo stuff and you don't have to wait a million years). Frankly, if it was me and I was on east coast, I'd make my way up to NYC/Boston and go to the Schott/Vanson store(s) in person. At least there you will have absolutely no fit issues, which to me is priceless. I guess Lost Worlds is sorta pricy, but I figure you only live once. (I have a Ruby helmet and think it's totally worth it, which says something.)

warbird · Dec 4, 2012

Peacoat said:
The cafe style is tight fitting, but you can get a larger size to your satisfaction.

I read your comment to a previous thread that you had to go up two sizes on your FCL jacket, can't recall which one it was. I like the cafe look and features like the zipped cuffs., but I will be wearing it in casual use as I no longer ride. So I don't want a tight jacket. I was starting to wonder if I should change styles all together. As i said I already have several other styles, so I hope I can make this work out. Do you know if any of the other FCL motorcycle jackets are looser fitting?

gtdean48 · Dec 4, 2012

Coley,
Cafe Racers are a tight fitting profile to start with plus they are long in the back to cover when you lean forward for the grips.
If you are not riding anymore, would you be better off looking at a Highwayman? Shorter waisted & all....

apba1166 · Dec 4, 2012

I had a Fox Creek cafe racer that I even bought a size up, like you, and was too tight and I sent it back. On the other hand, I have their leather jean jacket which, if anything, is about a half size too big, plenty roomy even for a sweater. Also their bomber/cycle with the built in perf vest and removable thinsulate lining. Heavy, great, and useful in all kinds of weather. I think another really nice, heavy, versatile leather jacket, because it has really clean lines, is Aero's Veste de Rallye....I got mine one size down (steer) and it works great and is suitable for all kinds of stuff.

Peacoat · Dec 5, 2012

warbird said:
I read your comment to a previous thread that you had to go up two sizes on your FCL jacket, can't recall which one it was. I like the cafe look and features like the zipped cuffs., but I will be wearing it in casual use as I no longer ride. So I don't want a tight jacket. I was starting to wonder if I should change styles all together. As i said I already have several other styles, so I hope I can make this work out. Do you know if any of the other FCL motorcycle jackets are looser fitting?

I got the Vented Bomber, I think it was. FC is having a sale right now. Their jackets are broken in out of the box. Good quality and well made.

Worf · Dec 5, 2012

I don't ride so I've always looked at the casual side of the street. I gravitated to A2's. I've several but I've a custom 50's Halfbelt and Indy that I love to bits. There's a wealth of A2 styles and cuts for you to choose from and some tasty A1's (the A2's predecessor) as well. Aero, GoodWear, Eastman, Vanson all make quality leather jackets. Good luck with your search.

Worf

ForestForTheTrees · Dec 5, 2012

Johnnson Leather out of San Francisco has a jacket similar to what you're looking for: the N-200. Their base jackets feature the naked cowhide just like the Fox Creek. If they can't fit you in a stock size, they can customize to fit for an additional charge.

I wanted a custom jacket that incorporated some of the looks of a riding jacket, but leaning more towards just a simple utility street jacket that would last forever. Using their M-200 model as a starting point, this is how it turned out.

Vespizzare · Dec 5, 2012

ForestForTheTrees said:
Johnnson Leather out of San Francisco has a jacket similar to what you're looking for: the N-200. Their base jackets feature the naked cowhide just like the Fox Creek. If they can't fit you in a stock size, they can customize to fit for an additional charge.

I wanted a custom jacket that incorporated some of the looks of a riding jacket, but leaning more towards just a simple utility street jacket that would last forever. Using their M-200 model as a starting point, this is how it turned out.

The above pix worked on me anyway. When I saw them and your previous posts while researching different makers, I stopped being a prisoner of doubt and resolved to get that jacket (customized, of course). I'll post when I receive it around the 10th. Meanwhile, Alan (Johnson) couldn't be nicer or easier to work with.

warbird · Dec 5, 2012

gtdean48 said:
Coley,
Cafe Racers are a tight fitting profile to start with plus they are long in the back to cover when you lean forward for the grips.
If you are not riding anymore, would you be better off looking at a Highwayman? Shorter waisted & all....

Yeah I thought I could get the larger size and be good. I like the extended back on it. I don't know if another size up with work if it is even longer. I will call them in the morning. I ave a nearly 80 year old halfbelt already, so I don't really need another unless I find a good deal on ebay. I do like the lines of it though. Since I already have an Indy and a halfbelt I wanted something similar to what I had years ago for riding.

I am not a fan of the A2 style jacket. I can't stand to have a jacket with a fabric waist. I like a jacket to fall naturally. he A2 always looks to me too poofy.

apba1166 · Dec 5, 2012

One more choice for a longer back is a Langlitz Cascade. Looks nice whether you ride or not. I have a slant, but whether you get it slanted or straight...the cow breaks in easy, or you can go goat...and it has the longer curved back, and they will work with you to customize, etc....even have a whole bunch of lightly pre-worn ones in the shop.

warbird · Dec 6, 2012

I might just go one size larger in the Grayson. The 46 might work. I have done a lot of research in other models at FCL plus others and haven't come up with a great alternative. I don't want to spend $1k for a jacket. My middle aged ass has a performance vehice to pay for now since I no longer ride a bike. As soon as my kids are out fo the house though, look out.

Peacoat · Dec 6, 2012

Yes, I can vouch for the Johnson Leathers jackets as well. The heavy weight MC jackets they have require substantial break in, however. When I got mine back in June, I wore it around the house for about a week to start the process. When the cooler mornings started in September, I rode it some on the motorcycle. Since the first part of October, I have worn it every day. While it is now fairly comfortable to wear, it still is relatively stiff. Still stands by itself.

They do have a 3 1/2 oz. steer that is easy to break in. I got both. The lighter weight I got for street wear. After I got it, I liked it so well, I got another one in the heavy steer for a dedicated MC jacket. I love the way they are fitted. Both of mine have a definite V shape and are closely tailored to the body with a narrow waist. One day I will post some pictures.

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