Advice on navy blue leather

I could use some advice on leather selection. I am working with Alan at Johnson Leather on a custom jacket. I originally planned to use their brown Horween Vermont horsehide. However, during the process I became interested in going with navy blue leather.

In searching for the right hide, I found heavier than usual Vermont (3.5-4.0 oz) in dark navy. The sample is very nice. It is substantial but with a tumbled, soft temper. Only problem is that the vendor only had 3 second-quality hides. I decided to take a chance and had them shipped directly to JL.

JL contacted me as soon as they received the hides. They sent me the attached pics. Alan and Damon noted the light and dark variations in color but indicated that they’d both be ok with the hides if making personal jackets for themselves. The newly made jacket won’t be completely uniform in color but could look fine with some wear. I need to make a decision now. I can return the hides for a refund before cutting. (I haven’t been able to find more of this leather; may have been a one-off run.)

Should I go with the blue and embrace the variation?
Should I go with the brown Vermont that JL stocks?
Another option I haven’t thought of?

If I were looking for a navy blue jacket I would try to get one made out of the current batch of navy CXL that Aero is using right now. I think the fact that you are hesitating here tells you all that you need to know about whether or not to use the navy Vermont.

I am with El Marro We may never see the current midnight cxl HH again
GORGEOUS

I would not go for that dark navy. IMO it's too dark. If I were going to buy a navy blue jacket, I would want something that actually looks blue.

dudewuttheheck said:

I would not go for that dark navy. IMO it's too dark. If I were going to buy a navy blue jacket, I would want something that actually looks blue.

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I agree 100%
I have an Aero Teamster made from the first batch of navy CXL, back when Thurston Brothers was calling it midnight blue. It is more steely gray then it is blue and to be honest I am just not that fond of it. Every batch of navy CXL since that one has gotten better and the new stuff is the best yet by far.

Thanks, gents. I appreciate the feedback.

In case you haven't seen the Aero Midnight Blue El Marro and the others are talking about, this thread has some amazing photos. I'm a complete newb and have never even seen blue leather I liked in person. But I was blown away by this color.

The navy from Lost Worlds is also worth looking into, exactly the right shade

red devil said:

The navy from Lost Worlds is also worth looking into, exactly the right shade

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I totally agree with @red devil Lost Worlds offer 4oz+ navy HH, but this stuff is quite stiff. I really like the horsehide they use - my LW Buco Rider (brown HH) is now 7-8 years old and the leather is amazing after it is broken in! My navy 4oz+ yet needs to be worn...