Is there a way to safely soften vintage stiff leather jackets?

[Raul]

I was wondering if there is a way to soften a vintage leather jacket (horsehide or steerhide) that is both effective and safe for the hide.
Sometimes vintage jackets are stiff and being able to soften them a bit would make the wearing much more comfortable.
Any experience or idea? Thanks

 

[AeroFan_07]

Yes:
https://www.urad.com/products/softener

I would suggest the Urad normal + Tenderly, and you may want a couple of them, as this product soaks in rapidly.
Expect to apply 2-3 coats of Tenderly first.

Don't use the Urad normal until you have it well softened up.

Ideally - place the jacket in a sunny area (not too hot) for ~ 10 minutes prior to applying the first coat of Tenderly. Work it in gently. Do NOT try and unnaturally heat the jacket other than sunlight, or be wearing the jacket (that's maybe even more effective).

 

[zebedee]

Wearing them in rainfall will do it. Putting them in a pillow case and cold wash with water only will soften leather up, but it's not really necessary.

I solved the problem completely by buying goatskin jackets.

 

[Monitor]

This! Without fail. Softens leather up to 30% in my approximate estimate, sometimes more.