@@almostvintagestyle you think that Flat head don't do good stuffs? I am not sure beetwin the j24 buco and the delraiser Flat head. Wich is the better in your opinion? Thanks!
@@almostvintagestyle Impossible! You care the appropriate amount about something you're passionate about and into which you're investing a sizable chunk of change.
100% agreed. The UA-cam hype machine is a serious problem. Hard to find reliable, honest reviews. Most people want to brag about their purchases instead of doing a serious comparative analysis. Channels like yours are a godsend and a true rarity these days.
I think it's a mixed bag. There is good reason for the hype around Japanese craftsmanship, no matter what it is, but, you have to know the brand you're buying from. No country is a monolith, you have to look into the reputation of each brand. But, if you are new to this type of clothing and want to buy a high quality item, looking into Japanese brands is a great place to start. Often you can find the best in any given price category coming out of Japan. You also have to consider that most people don't even know that you can get leather jackets from Japan. Even in this niche world there is hype around western brands like Schott, Simmons Bilt, Field Leather, Himmel Bros.
Absolutely true. Not a monolith and you have to know what you're looking for. You are also right that there is hype around other brands too. This is just what I felt I needed to talk about first haha
So nice to see jackets that fit - all of them! I had to comment on the left-hand zipper. I hate that, but I have a jacket by Garfinkels, Washington, D.C. (closed now) I got in 1984 made of leather, canvas and blue corduroy, lined in red. I know, I'm the only one after 40 years that still has one. It never occurred to me that the zipper was on the left and I hadn't worn in in a couple of decades (still pristine though). Tuns out I also didn't realize it was made in Italy, but being that it was $450 back then ($1300 today), it should be! It actually needs to be, because of the right-open flap, that makes the left side heavier, therefore that's where they put the zipper and if you see it, it makes complete sense. Your jacket on the other hand, does not seem to need that for any particular reason. But apparently, non-US manufactures do as they please and I am aware of why zippers are the way they are and the misguided stereotype associated with it. I only today realized my zipper was on the left, but didn't at first consciously think of it. I'm definitely not a fan of your high-water pants, but thanks for the chuckle. I do appreciate your jacket descriptions and that you wear clothes that fit you (other than those one pants length). Most guys are thinking back to oversized or something. My Italian jacket is a large medium and I'm 5', 11", 154, 31w, so I'm on the plus side of small or a small medium and have a hard time finding an affordable jacket in a true 39 which is my exact size and impossible to find (38 too small, 40 too big). I can't wear a waist jacket made for a guy with a 32-33 waist because that looks huge on me there and everywhere else, but is typical for a medium size. Small jackets have shorter arms. Oh well. I hit every thrift store just to see if I can find a gem; I have before on a pair of Timberland boots (40 years old - beautiful). Because of my in between size, I haven't had much luck buying them on line, but I have amassed quite a collection trying, so I need to put about 6 jackets up for sale that just weren't right (always too big) and keep looking for the right one! Thanks for the video!
Could you do a video going over what you look for when assessing the quality of something like a leather jacket or jeans? I've come to know what to look for in boots, but not as familiar with construction techniques for garments. Would be interested to see what you look for. Great video, Jake 👍
From what you’re saying, Shinki makes much of their horsehides based on what they client wants them to make, while Horween pretty much has a static tanning process.
I'm not sure if that's fully the case. I know some brands take already made shinki and then finish it or process it themselves. I also think some of it has to do with who gets first dibs on the best hides. Same thing with horween cxl. Not all of it is equal.
Everyone has to have their “thing”. I enjoy your videos and take a lot of information away from them. I appreciate and enjoy many things including cars, motorcycles, watches, photography, boots and leather jackets. For normal guys like me (and generally for most), being able to balance all these material interests in life is key to being able to enjoy these blessings. Otherwise, like any addiction, it’ll consume us. Anyway, first-world problems. Looking forward to adding my first Japanese leather jacket and boots this year. I’m thankful this is your “thing”… Helps me navigate through all the information out there. 🤓
Thanks for the kind words! I appreciate it! I enjoy a lot of those same things you mentioned, but this one is definitely my biggest "thing." Best of luck with your jacket search!
I totally agree with you on that a jacket’s pattern is only good if it’s flattering on the wearer! But I guess it works differently for everyone sometimes, I see ppl talking about Y2 in the comments but my two Y2 jackets (including one D-pocket doublerider) are like two of the most flattering jackets I have, and Real McCoy’s just don’t work on me (at least for the ones I’ve tried on) I tried on the J24 in store in 3 different sizes and they always looked weird, the right size for me should be 44, but I just find a shoulder a bit narrow, the body longer than what I like and the sleeves are really fat and long. But then, I’ve never tried Fine Creek’s jackets and their measurements always seemed suspicious.
Good points. Y2 does make nicer patterns than Fine Creek, but I find that brands like Vanson, Thedi, Himel, Freewheelers, make even better ones. Of course, some patterns just don't work on some people even if they are good patterns. Whatever fits you best is what you should go for!
wicked video! FYI for future buyers, i went to one of the store Desolation Row. when you buy it make sure it fits nicely coz in my case it fits perfectly front wise. but my goodness, when i check how it hangs/drapes on my back, the way it falls down, i would say is sooo bad. at least for me. for some reason the shoulder at back was wide. lets put it this way in a simple terms, there was so much leather fabric on my back. also in the biceps area. also i have small butt, so most of the FW i tried was tapered so in my case it looks funny. it like a big letter V. side view and back view is soo bad on my frame. I end up buying a SLP L01 jacket. i already have a plan for my next jacket. and that would be Thedi. :-)
I really feel like you should get a thedi jacket because I have two already and they’re incredible. I’d love to see you review a jacket that was custom for you by Theodoros. They’re incredible. He’ll make you a custom design just tell him what you have in mind. He’s a true artist! And price right now is a steal compared to freewheelers
I've had the luck to visit a Korean bespoke leather jacket maker and I can tell you firsthand, that they spend more time laying out the pattern than anything else. Here's how it goes, most jackets use corrected grain leather. It's fine and even quite strong but it minimizes wastage. Full grain horsehides aren't so simple. Other than that, the finishing work isn't much better than you'd get from a conventional brand, but the quality of every component is undeniable. Just look at the zippers.
Well if they're focusing on the pattern more than anything else, they're definitely doing something right! Glad to hear it. I'd be fine with less than perfect stitching if the pattern is ace.
Funny I always thought companies like Aero were the bees knees of leather jackets. For me Aero is a nice balance between price and quality. The occasional wavy stich doesn't bother me at all. Love your passion.
Any thoughts on Aero Custom Leathers out of Scottland? They have some excellent patterns as well, and their materials are of outstanding quality. Not sure how the stitching compares with Thedi, though.
Actually the biggest complaint I hear about them is their issues with patterns and its the issue I had with my Aero as well. I would also say that Thedi construction will probably be cleaner as well. Aero are solid but I would buy a Thedi if I were choosing between the two.
Great reviews 👍speaking about China Im really liking Red Tornado. Have 3 pairs and honestly for the money, totally worth it. Still like Eastman and Aero not Japanese but I excellent quality nonetheless. I also go vintage 50s jackets from the US. Monarch, Californian, Schott etc. Had a real McCoy D-1 but it was made in New Zealand prior to them moving the factory to Japan after the earth quakes in 2011. It’s like the boots. Lots of great US makers like Brian the Boot maker and Mister Freedom etc. Sure lots of quality from Japan but the more popular they get I find quality suffers.
Yeah anytime someone gets more popular, either the quality goes down or the wait times go up massively. Very cool to have a New Zealand RMC piece. They're very nice!
Nice video. I was looking really thoroughly at the higher end Japanese brands for a while, but decided to go with a custom Thedi and am so happy I did. I may end up with a RC or FW at some point but only if I make sure the measurements are right and that it will fit. I’m oddly shaped, and most off the rack jackets just don’t fit. I loved the look of aero and the leather selection, but the patterns and overall quality steered me to Thedi. His look is definitely fashion forward, but to have a jacket that fits and feels great is priceless for me. I’ll probably have another from him at some point.
Yeah my one gripe with Thedi is how fashion forward the jackets are. It's not an objectively bad thing, just a personal preference thing. Otherwise, they are absolutely brilliant jackets. I have not seen one that doesn't look killer on the owner. That is something I can't even say about Freewheelers! Thedi's actual leathers look fantastic as well. You certainly made a great choice!
@@almostvintagestyle thanks, I do love the leather. I have the cocoa buffalo that is washed. Some people don’t like the washed look either, but you can get it without. The hand dying process and waxing give it such a rich look, and it won’t shrink if it gets wet. His horsehides are nice as well. Your Bodie is legendary. Thedi doesn’t have anything that simple but so perfect. You have no need to try Thedi unless you want try something a little different, and you have several other awesome jackets.
@@nathancreel8547 Yeah I like that you don't have to get the washed look if you don't want. They make amazing jackets no doubt. Clearly some of the very best.
I’ve really loved the mister freedom baloo I have. I think MF does a great job blazing their own trail and maybe doesn’t get so much attention since they don’t do any repro styling. I’d love to hear your thoughts on your old campus and what lead to you selling. Thanks for the insights I’m this video!
Well they definitely do repro styling, they just don't do direct reproductions. Almost everyone I know who wears any Mister Freedom is into repro clothing overall. I do think Mister Freedom makes a solid leather jacket pattern. They're just too long for me unfortunately.
@@almostvintagestyle Using the term repro styling was a mistake I was focusing more on the fact they don’t copy vintage styles. I agree that their jackets are a bit long.
Pretty much spot on. He wants to say avoid Y2 and Fine creek im sure. And he is right. I have 3 freewheelers and 3 y2 leathers, and 1 fine creek and 2 Himel bros, 1 Simmons Bilt. The leather on the y2 is only okay, nowhere near the level of Himel, or Freewheelers. The fine creek leather is even worse. The stitching is good on all of them but I’m not as particular about that. The liner on freewheelers is nice, and terrible cheap cotton drill in the Y2. The major problem with Y2 and Fine Creek is their patterns are absolutely terrible. I used to think my fine creek was great but after wearing my freewheelers and Himel and then trying my Y2 and Fine Creek they just fit very awkward and are unflattering. As much as I hate to say it Jake is exactly right.
I don’t know about avoiding those brands but I agree they are both way too overpriced. I own a y-2 jacket and a Rainbow Country jacket. The lining of the y-2 is wool with a smooth material for the sleeves but I prefer the leather in the RC jacket. I also recently handled the fine creek Jack in person and I’m very underwhelmed by the leather and the cotton drill lining. They use shinki with a proprietary recipe but i think it’s BS. It doesn’t even have the shinki smell of my RC jacket. To clarify, I would not buy a brand new Y-2 or fine creek at full price but I wouldn’t say to avoid both brand all together if you can find a nice used piece
Thanks for the detailed info! The stitching will be at least good on all of those in my experience as you said. However, as you also point out, the materials and patterns on some brands (including some others we haven't mentioned yet) absolutely fall short of RC, FW, Himel, Thedi, etc. Clean construction and stitching is great. I still love that, but you can't have a great leather jacket without a great pattern.
I would avoid certain brands altogether because the patterns are poor. If a jacket doesn't fit that well, then I just wouldn't be interested in it full stop. However, for some people, I could see it being worth it if it was extremely low in price. Don't get me started on standard cotton drill lining. I can't stand the stuff haha!
Informative video, l still think this jacket is a bit of a sausage casing in terms of snugness. I would opt for a size up and tailor the sleeves if I’m paying that kind of money.
I have a real McCoy jacket and it is a nice jacket but the only problem I have is when you zip the jacket up the zipper comes off track and you cannot unzip the jacket unless you carefully mess with the zipper to get back on track super annoying considering the price I prefer areo leather jackets I have two and they are by far better than the real McCoy jacket I have
Heck no, Japanese jackets are not overrated although I understand your point about some of the newer companies. I think we know the companies that you're not mentioning; however, I really wanted a denim style trucker jacket in leather and went with a Fine Creek. Unfortunately The Flathead, Real Mccoys, Rainbow Country, Tenjin Works, and Freewheelers just don't make them (with the exception of Freewheelers' roughout one). That being said, if I wanted a single rider, double rider, car coat, or A-2 there's no comparison to the brands you mentioned. I definitely wouldn't own a single rider from Fine Creek unless they change their patterns.
That's a fair point. McCoys just did a roughout one, but you don't have much choice if you want a grain side leather trucker jacket. I would love to have more great leather jacket options, but yeah the patterns need to be upgraded big time!
We have to consider price point and I think you touched on that. I have some aero jackets that in my opinion are just as well made enough better based on price point. They will still last forever. I have 1960’s 1970’s jackets that I have that are still around and are in fantastic shape. Great video man, I don’t care what the folks at fedora lounge say about you lol… just kidding
Most people watching this own a closet full of jackets. Japanese jackets are great if you want to pay quadruple for something that sees the light of day a few times a year.
Great video! Im diving into more higher tier jackets and Im planning to get my hands on a jacket made out of shinki soon, love the D pocket design... do you have any recommendations of some brands you consider great quality that will not break the bank as much as a RMC?
Great vid! Getting a bit discouraged by the comments though. I've been wanting an N-1 jacket in leather and I haven't been able to find any better than the ones produced by Y2. Do you know of any other brands that make a leather N-1 jacket that might be better than Y2?
In fairness, not many others even try to make that jacket. None of the brands I gravitate even try it. If it were me, I'd just get a B6, but obviously, that's not the same aesthetic.
@@almostvintagestyle I also like the look of a B6 but it's replicated (often poorly) by so many other fast fashion brands. I see it all over the place here in Copenhagen. I already have a deck jacket by Iron Heart which I love. I just think it would be that much cooler and unique in horsehide leather.
@@almostvintagestyle By the way, I was lucky enough to visit the Y2 shop in Osaka a couple weeks ago. Met with their designer and a leather worker while there and I'm absolutely sold. The stuff they showed me was out-of-this-world cool! I'm going with Y2. I also got to meet with the Freewheelers designer in Tokyo who was just as awesome. Bought their Lumper jacket in beach cloth. If I was looking for something other than a N1 deck jacket in leather, I would definitely be considering Freewheelers along with Y2.
Not sure if the Indiana Jones style jacket you have from Mushmans is made by them but I believe they typically use Electric Leather Studio for their Mushmans labelled jackets.
They seem to have slightly better patterns than some other makers, but I need to handle them more first. I have no experience with Nitta, unfortunately.
@@almostvintagestyle6877 Thanks for your fast answer. I cannot find the Freewheelers "Mulholland" and because of this a will keep the DH „Hugging The Curve“ a try. Thanks again and keep going.
Great video. I just don’t care much for freewheelers designs. The Centinela jacket is horrendous to me. Awkward and just plain unattractive. Most of their designs don’t really do anything for me. I guess the C was their attempt to do something different. I suppose they succeeded as far as that goes. As nice as the stitching may be on a freewheeler‘s jacket, it can’t make up for lackluster design. Imperfect stitching aside, the flat head double riders is a stunning jacket. And in defense of some of the brands I think you probably are trying to avoid mentioning, the Y2 leathers Sumi SHR-58, is a beautiful jacket with a killer pattern and fit.
Thanks for the kind words! I appreciate it. Actually, that Centinela is a repro of a highly desirable vintage Leathertogs jacket. Other original vintage brands and modern brands make somewhat similar models. That doesn't mean it's "good," just that it isn't actually all that different. It's an early motorcycle model, so it definitely won't be to everyone's taste. I also don't love the Centinela, but that does not take away from the fact that Freewheelers really knows how to design a great leather jacket. That said, I am a pretty die hard Freewheelers fan... which is probably obvious :D
Fit is very hard I am a bigger guy tried on a lot of jackets at standard and strange self edge and schott finally bought fine creek Alonzo what do you think of their guality thanx
The stitching will be pretty good, but I am not personally a fan. You can see what others have experienced in some of the other comments here. I agree with them. If it fits you well though then that's great!
As I mentioned earlier single riders are better suited to Freewheelers, Real Mccoys, Rainbow Country, and The Flathead. I would only stick with trucker jackets in Fine Creek, which to me offer a pretty good (not great) fit.
I would say this: price is surprisingly not too correlated to craftsmanship. The most well crafted leather product that I have were actually my Cleto Reyes boxing gloves. Not a single bad stitch. Just because a leather jacket costs 500 dollars vs 1500 dollars. The difference won't be as dramatic as you might expect for 3x the price.
I would actually say that with leather jackets, the price is a little more correlated to price than that. I have not handled any $500 jacket that is all that beautifully crafted. However, once you go over $1,000, it's a lot more murky. At that point, it really depends on the specific brand. Some are overpriced, but some do actually offer a lot despite being expensive.
This was so fun to watch man, your passion for this subject is contagious!
Thanks Carl! I do care a bit too much about leather jackets
@@almostvintagestyle you think that Flat head don't do good stuffs? I am not sure beetwin the j24 buco and the delraiser Flat head. Wich is the better in your opinion? Thanks!
@@almostvintagestyle Impossible! You care the appropriate amount about something you're passionate about and into which you're investing a sizable chunk of change.
Man I wish you made more videos. Your no nonsense style is very much appreciated in the vast landscape of UA-cam hype.
I really appreciate that. This is exactly what I am trying to help with.
100% agreed. The UA-cam hype machine is a serious problem. Hard to find reliable, honest reviews. Most people want to brag about their purchases instead of doing a serious comparative analysis. Channels like yours are a godsend and a true rarity these days.
I think it's a mixed bag. There is good reason for the hype around Japanese craftsmanship, no matter what it is, but, you have to know the brand you're buying from. No country is a monolith, you have to look into the reputation of each brand. But, if you are new to this type of clothing and want to buy a high quality item, looking into Japanese brands is a great place to start. Often you can find the best in any given price category coming out of Japan.
You also have to consider that most people don't even know that you can get leather jackets from Japan. Even in this niche world there is hype around western brands like Schott, Simmons Bilt, Field Leather, Himmel Bros.
Absolutely true. Not a monolith and you have to know what you're looking for. You are also right that there is hype around other brands too. This is just what I felt I needed to talk about first haha
You and Carl Murawski are a godsend. Some of the few honest, detailed reviewers left on this platform.
Thank you! I appreciate that very nuch especially because I also love Carl's videos
So nice to see jackets that fit - all of them! I had to comment on the left-hand zipper. I hate that, but I have a jacket by Garfinkels, Washington, D.C. (closed now) I got in 1984 made of leather, canvas and blue corduroy, lined in red. I know, I'm the only one after 40 years that still has one. It never occurred to me that the zipper was on the left and I hadn't worn in in a couple of decades (still pristine though).
Tuns out I also didn't realize it was made in Italy, but being that it was $450 back then ($1300 today), it should be! It actually needs to be, because of the right-open flap, that makes the left side heavier, therefore that's where they put the zipper and if you see it, it makes complete sense. Your jacket on the other hand, does not seem to need that for any particular reason. But apparently, non-US manufactures do as they please and I am aware of why zippers are the way they are and the misguided stereotype associated with it. I only today realized my zipper was on the left, but didn't at first consciously think of it.
I'm definitely not a fan of your high-water pants, but thanks for the chuckle. I do appreciate your jacket descriptions and that you wear clothes that fit you (other than those one pants length). Most guys are thinking back to oversized or something. My Italian jacket is a large medium and I'm 5', 11", 154, 31w, so I'm on the plus side of small or a small medium and have a hard time finding an affordable jacket in a true 39 which is my exact size and impossible to find (38 too small, 40 too big). I can't wear a waist jacket made for a guy with a 32-33 waist because that looks huge on me there and everywhere else, but is typical for a medium size. Small jackets have shorter arms. Oh well.
I hit every thrift store just to see if I can find a gem; I have before on a pair of Timberland boots (40 years old - beautiful). Because of my in between size, I haven't had much luck buying them on line, but I have amassed quite a collection trying, so I need to put about 6 jackets up for sale that just weren't right (always too big) and keep looking for the right one! Thanks for the video!
Interesting about your jacket. I don't know why they out the zipper on the opposite side with mine, but yours makes sense.
Could you do a video going over what you look for when assessing the quality of something like a leather jacket or jeans? I've come to know what to look for in boots, but not as familiar with construction techniques for garments. Would be interested to see what you look for.
Great video, Jake 👍
I did that before, but I've taken the video down so you're right I should do it again
So what your saying is that the product quality of a culture isn’t a monolith and quality needs to be judged on a case by case basis?
Yes indeed! What a shocker, right? :D
From what you’re saying, Shinki makes much of their horsehides based on what they client wants them to make, while Horween pretty much has a static tanning process.
I'm not sure if that's fully the case. I know some brands take already made shinki and then finish it or process it themselves. I also think some of it has to do with who gets first dibs on the best hides. Same thing with horween cxl. Not all of it is equal.
Everyone has to have their “thing”. I enjoy your videos and take a lot of information away from them. I appreciate and enjoy many things including cars, motorcycles, watches, photography, boots and leather jackets. For normal guys like me (and generally for most), being able to balance all these material interests in life is key to being able to enjoy these blessings. Otherwise, like any addiction, it’ll consume us. Anyway, first-world problems. Looking forward to adding my first Japanese leather jacket and boots this year. I’m thankful this is your “thing”… Helps me navigate through all the information out there. 🤓
Thanks for the kind words! I appreciate it! I enjoy a lot of those same things you mentioned, but this one is definitely my biggest "thing." Best of luck with your jacket search!
I totally agree with you on that a jacket’s pattern is only good if it’s flattering on the wearer! But I guess it works differently for everyone sometimes, I see ppl talking about Y2 in the comments but my two Y2 jackets (including one D-pocket doublerider) are like two of the most flattering jackets I have, and Real McCoy’s just don’t work on me (at least for the ones I’ve tried on) I tried on the J24 in store in 3 different sizes and they always looked weird, the right size for me should be 44, but I just find a shoulder a bit narrow, the body longer than what I like and the sleeves are really fat and long. But then, I’ve never tried Fine Creek’s jackets and their measurements always seemed suspicious.
Good points. Y2 does make nicer patterns than Fine Creek, but I find that brands like Vanson, Thedi, Himel, Freewheelers, make even better ones. Of course, some patterns just don't work on some people even if they are good patterns. Whatever fits you best is what you should go for!
Fantastic Video! Shoutout to Double Helix Works for making fantastic quality pieces.
Thanks very much!
wicked video! FYI for future buyers, i went to one of the store Desolation Row. when you buy it make sure it fits nicely coz in my case it fits perfectly front wise. but my goodness, when i check how it hangs/drapes on my back, the way it falls down, i would say is sooo bad. at least for me. for some reason the shoulder at back was wide. lets put it this way in a simple terms, there was so much leather fabric on my back. also in the biceps area. also i have small butt, so most of the FW i tried was tapered so in my case it looks funny. it like a big letter V. side view and back view is soo bad on my frame. I end up buying a SLP L01 jacket. i already have a plan for my next jacket. and that would be Thedi. :-)
Ah that's a shame. That taper and extra room up top works extremely well for me, but not everyone. I'm sure thedi would be able to nail the fit
Are they overrated? Yes, but this does not imply they are poor quality. They are high quality but prices are too high regardless, hence "overrated."
Yes and not all are of equal quality. Some will be good but not all of them are top tier.
I really feel like you should get a thedi jacket because I have two already and they’re incredible. I’d love to see you review a jacket that was custom for you by Theodoros. They’re incredible. He’ll make you a custom design just tell him what you have in mind. He’s a true artist! And price right now is a steal compared to freewheelers
I finally was able to try them on in person and they were really good. Excellent patterns and very well made.
I've had the luck to visit a Korean bespoke leather jacket maker and I can tell you firsthand, that they spend more time laying out the pattern than anything else. Here's how it goes, most jackets use corrected grain leather. It's fine and even quite strong but it minimizes wastage. Full grain horsehides aren't so simple. Other than that, the finishing work isn't much better than you'd get from a conventional brand, but the quality of every component is undeniable. Just look at the zippers.
Well if they're focusing on the pattern more than anything else, they're definitely doing something right! Glad to hear it. I'd be fine with less than perfect stitching if the pattern is ace.
Funny I always thought companies like Aero were the bees knees of leather jackets. For me Aero is a nice balance between price and quality. The occasional wavy stich doesn't bother me at all. Love your passion.
That's totally fair! They are a good balance of price and quality. I agree on that. I still think about trying another jacket from them.
@@almostvintagestyle i have one on order, 59'er Highwayman in their soft, grainy black steerhide. There is nothing like waiting for a new jacket!
@@markhenry192 Except for when you finally get it and put it on!
@@almostvintagestyle yes and the unforgettable smell of leather!
@@markhenry192 Agreed. I love the way Shinki and Badalassi leathers smell.
Any thoughts on Aero Custom Leathers out of Scottland? They have some excellent patterns as well, and their materials are of outstanding quality. Not sure how the stitching compares with Thedi, though.
Actually the biggest complaint I hear about them is their issues with patterns and its the issue I had with my Aero as well. I would also say that Thedi construction will probably be cleaner as well. Aero are solid but I would buy a Thedi if I were choosing between the two.
Great reviews 👍speaking about China Im really liking Red Tornado. Have 3 pairs and honestly for the money, totally worth it. Still like Eastman and Aero not Japanese but I excellent quality nonetheless. I also go vintage 50s jackets from the US. Monarch, Californian, Schott etc. Had a real McCoy D-1 but it was made in New Zealand prior to them moving the factory to Japan after the earth quakes in 2011. It’s like the boots. Lots of great US makers like Brian the Boot maker and Mister Freedom etc. Sure lots of quality from Japan but the more popular they get I find quality suffers.
Yeah anytime someone gets more popular, either the quality goes down or the wait times go up massively. Very cool to have a New Zealand RMC piece. They're very nice!
All i dont get is.. japanese cars with all their utility are cheap whereas the clothes are super expensive!
Is american made not worth it?
It depends on which American made jacket
@@almostvintagestyle schott?
Nice video. I was looking really thoroughly at the higher end Japanese brands for a while, but decided to go with a custom Thedi and am so happy I did. I may end up with a RC or FW at some point but only if I make sure the measurements are right and that it will fit. I’m oddly shaped, and most off the rack jackets just don’t fit. I loved the look of aero and the leather selection, but the patterns and overall quality steered me to Thedi. His look is definitely fashion forward, but to have a jacket that fits and feels great is priceless for me. I’ll probably have another from him at some point.
Yeah my one gripe with Thedi is how fashion forward the jackets are. It's not an objectively bad thing, just a personal preference thing. Otherwise, they are absolutely brilliant jackets. I have not seen one that doesn't look killer on the owner. That is something I can't even say about Freewheelers! Thedi's actual leathers look fantastic as well. You certainly made a great choice!
@@almostvintagestyle thanks, I do love the leather. I have the cocoa buffalo that is washed. Some people don’t like the washed look either, but you can get it without. The hand dying process and waxing give it such a rich look, and it won’t shrink if it gets wet. His horsehides are nice as well.
Your Bodie is legendary. Thedi doesn’t have anything that simple but so perfect. You have no need to try Thedi unless you want try something a little different, and you have several other awesome jackets.
@@nathancreel8547 Yeah I like that you don't have to get the washed look if you don't want. They make amazing jackets no doubt. Clearly some of the very best.
No, they’re not overrated. Stitching is amazing with Japanese leather jacket brands
Yes it is. I am well aware of that, but it's not true for all Japanese brands. Trust me. I've owned them.
I’ve really loved the mister freedom baloo I have. I think MF does a great job blazing their own trail and maybe doesn’t get so much attention since they don’t do any repro styling. I’d love to hear your thoughts on your old campus and what lead to you selling. Thanks for the insights I’m this video!
Well they definitely do repro styling, they just don't do direct reproductions. Almost everyone I know who wears any Mister Freedom is into repro clothing overall. I do think Mister Freedom makes a solid leather jacket pattern. They're just too long for me unfortunately.
@@almostvintagestyle Using the term repro styling was a mistake I was focusing more on the fact they don’t copy vintage styles. I agree that their jackets are a bit long.
@@calebgasca No worries. I love their jackets, but I wish they were shorter haha
I think your fit is just right. Snug, lean, mean, cool! Nothing is worse than ill fitting/loose leather jacket!
Yeah baggy leather jackets aren't a great look
Pretty much spot on. He wants to say avoid Y2 and Fine creek im sure. And he is right. I have 3 freewheelers and 3 y2 leathers, and 1 fine creek and 2 Himel bros, 1 Simmons Bilt. The leather on the y2 is only okay, nowhere near the level of Himel, or Freewheelers. The fine creek leather is even worse. The stitching is good on all of them but I’m not as particular about that. The liner on freewheelers is nice, and terrible cheap cotton drill in the Y2. The major problem with Y2 and Fine Creek is their patterns are absolutely terrible. I used to think my fine creek was great but after wearing my freewheelers and Himel and then trying my Y2 and Fine Creek they just fit very awkward and are unflattering. As much as I hate to say it Jake is exactly right.
I don’t know about avoiding those brands but I agree they are both way too overpriced. I own a y-2 jacket and a Rainbow Country jacket. The lining of the y-2 is wool with a smooth material for the sleeves but I prefer the leather in the RC jacket. I also recently handled the fine creek Jack in person and I’m very underwhelmed by the leather and the cotton drill lining. They use shinki with a proprietary recipe but i think it’s BS. It doesn’t even have the shinki smell of my RC jacket. To clarify, I would not buy a brand new Y-2 or fine creek at full price but I wouldn’t say to avoid both brand all together if you can find a nice used piece
Thanks for the detailed info! The stitching will be at least good on all of those in my experience as you said. However, as you also point out, the materials and patterns on some brands (including some others we haven't mentioned yet) absolutely fall short of RC, FW, Himel, Thedi, etc. Clean construction and stitching is great. I still love that, but you can't have a great leather jacket without a great pattern.
I would avoid certain brands altogether because the patterns are poor. If a jacket doesn't fit that well, then I just wouldn't be interested in it full stop. However, for some people, I could see it being worth it if it was extremely low in price. Don't get me started on standard cotton drill lining. I can't stand the stuff haha!
Agreed, although I do think y'2's roughout is nice
Informative video, l still think this jacket is a bit of a sausage casing in terms of snugness. I would opt for a size up and tailor the sleeves if I’m paying that kind of money.
Yeah thats fair. I did end up selling all my newer jackets
I am interested in Freewheeler Centinela, but I am not sure which size fits. The Freewheeler brakeman 42 fits me quite well though.
I unfortunately don't have experience with the centinela. I believe it fits sung though
Y2. Love them but would appreciate your take. Great channel too. Just subscribed!
I've tried them on and didn't love the patterns. I prefer other makers personally, but thats me.
I had exact same question! Thanks for the comment
The king is back
lol I think I'm more the court jester to some :P
I have a Shinki horse hide jacket from The Flat Head, I love it and its amazing.....
The leather they get is pretty fantastic. Plus if it fits you well, I'm sure it looks amazing.
I have a real McCoy jacket and it is a nice jacket but the only problem I have is when you zip the jacket up the zipper comes off track and you cannot unzip the jacket unless you carefully mess with the zipper to get back on track super annoying considering the price I prefer areo leather jackets I have two and they are by far better than the real McCoy jacket I have
Thats a shame, but I disagree overall. If you enjoy them though thays great
Same here… they wanted authenticity so badly they were willing to surrender quality. Some things did get better since the 40s.
Heck no, Japanese jackets are not overrated although I understand your point about some of the newer companies. I think we know the companies that you're not mentioning; however, I really wanted a denim style trucker jacket in leather and went with a Fine Creek. Unfortunately The Flathead, Real Mccoys, Rainbow Country, Tenjin Works, and Freewheelers just don't make them (with the exception of Freewheelers' roughout one). That being said, if I wanted a single rider, double rider, car coat, or A-2 there's no comparison to the brands you mentioned. I definitely wouldn't own a single rider from Fine Creek unless they change their patterns.
That's a fair point. McCoys just did a roughout one, but you don't have much choice if you want a grain side leather trucker jacket. I would love to have more great leather jacket options, but yeah the patterns need to be upgraded big time!
@@almostvintagestyle When Mccoys and Freewheelers make trucker jackets, I just might sell mine :)
Hey Jake great video! What's your opinion on Fine Creek Leathers? I'm considering getting their Leon custom jacket.
They're one of the brands I was talking about as doing awful patterns. I'm not s fan personally.
We have to consider price point and I think you touched on that. I have some aero jackets that in my opinion are just as well made enough better based on price point. They will still last forever. I have 1960’s 1970’s jackets that I have that are still around and are in fantastic shape. Great video man, I don’t care what the folks at fedora lounge say about you lol… just kidding
Haha thanks! Yeah Aero jackets will certainly last. My issues with them are more of fit, but I've seen guys achieve great fits with them as well.
Most people watching this own a closet full of jackets. Japanese jackets are great if you want to pay quadruple for something that sees the light of day a few times a year.
Yeah its a shame most people don't wear their leather jackets more. I wear mine constantly
You need a weekly video
I wish I could!
What’s the McCoys jacket at 24:55? Is that an older model; don’t see it in their current catalog but looks awesome
Yeah it's an old one. It's an older aviator jacket model. I'm not even sure what the official name is.
This one is over something like 20 years old as far as I know. Right at the beginning of their Japanese production.
@@almostvintagestyle ahh that makes sense - that’s a shame because I was hoping to pick one up. Thanks for the reply!
@@wachinstuf just keep checking places like yahoo auctions. They do show up now and then
Great video! Im diving into more higher tier jackets and Im planning to get my hands on a jacket made out of shinki soon, love the D pocket design... do you have any recommendations of some brands you consider great quality that will not break the bank as much as a RMC?
If you want a lower price, you'll have to avoid shinki or maybe go used. Just be patient and get a used rmc or Rainbow Country
Low key your doppelgänger is Mark Ruffalo…
Lol I'll take that! You're actually not the first person to say that to me :D
Great vid! Getting a bit discouraged by the comments though. I've been wanting an N-1 jacket in leather and I haven't been able to find any better than the ones produced by Y2. Do you know of any other brands that make a leather N-1 jacket that might be better than Y2?
In fairness, not many others even try to make that jacket. None of the brands I gravitate even try it. If it were me, I'd just get a B6, but obviously, that's not the same aesthetic.
@@almostvintagestyle I also like the look of a B6 but it's replicated (often poorly) by so many other fast fashion brands. I see it all over the place here in Copenhagen. I already have a deck jacket by Iron Heart which I love. I just think it would be that much cooler and unique in horsehide leather.
@@almostvintagestyle By the way, I was lucky enough to visit the Y2 shop in Osaka a couple weeks ago. Met with their designer and a leather worker while there and I'm absolutely sold. The stuff they showed me was out-of-this-world cool! I'm going with Y2. I also got to meet with the Freewheelers designer in Tokyo who was just as awesome. Bought their Lumper jacket in beach cloth. If I was looking for something other than a N1 deck jacket in leather, I would definitely be considering Freewheelers along with Y2.
@@PizzaHomie Yeah if you want a leather N-1, they are probably your best bet. If you're looking for other items, I'd go Freewheelers.
@@PizzaHomie Very cool that you got to meet everyone!
Stupid question
But where can you get a freewheelers Jacket from
Lot's of places. Speedway, Genco, Hoosier, Mirror Ball, Avenue, The Wild One, etc. In the USA there is HWY Blues and Brogue California
@@almostvintagestyle thanks appreciate it
@@albertvalenzuela9700 no problem! Freewheelers has a full list of retailers on their website I believe
Not sure if the Indiana Jones style jacket you have from Mushmans is made by them but I believe they typically use Electric Leather Studio for their Mushmans labelled jackets.
Yeah I think it was Electric Leather Studio
Great Video, thanks. But i don't hear anything from Double Helix. What do think about that and the Nitta Leather?
They seem to have slightly better patterns than some other makers, but I need to handle them more first. I have no experience with Nitta, unfortunately.
@@almostvintagestyle6877 Thanks for your fast answer. I cannot find the Freewheelers "Mulholland" and because of this a will keep the DH „Hugging The Curve“ a try. Thanks again and keep going.
F*cking classic 😂🧥🤙🏾⏳
Thank you🙏
Great video. I just don’t care much for freewheelers designs. The Centinela jacket is horrendous to me. Awkward and just plain unattractive. Most of their designs don’t really do anything for me. I guess the C was their attempt to do something different. I suppose they succeeded as far as that goes. As nice as the stitching may be on a freewheeler‘s jacket, it can’t make up for lackluster design. Imperfect stitching aside, the flat head double riders is a stunning jacket. And in defense of some of the brands I think you probably are trying to avoid mentioning, the Y2 leathers Sumi SHR-58, is a beautiful jacket with a killer pattern and fit.
Thanks for the kind words! I appreciate it. Actually, that Centinela is a repro of a highly desirable vintage Leathertogs jacket. Other original vintage brands and modern brands make somewhat similar models. That doesn't mean it's "good," just that it isn't actually all that different. It's an early motorcycle model, so it definitely won't be to everyone's taste. I also don't love the Centinela, but that does not take away from the fact that Freewheelers really knows how to design a great leather jacket. That said, I am a pretty die hard Freewheelers fan... which is probably obvious :D
Man I really need you to say something bad about boncoura so i buy less 😂😂🤣
Don't have experience with much of their stuff yet
Fit is very hard I am a bigger guy tried on a lot of jackets at standard and strange self edge and schott finally bought fine creek Alonzo what do you think of their guality thanx
The stitching will be pretty good, but I am not personally a fan. You can see what others have experienced in some of the other comments here. I agree with them. If it fits you well though then that's great!
As I mentioned earlier single riders are better suited to Freewheelers, Real Mccoys, Rainbow Country, and The Flathead. I would only stick with trucker jackets in Fine Creek, which to me offer a pretty good (not great) fit.
I love my Fine creek leathers & Addict clothes!!! Addict clothes does custom, I believe!!!
I did not know Addict did custom.
@@almostvintagestyle I believe so. Maybe not through American stores. You must deal with them directly!!!
@@juzoyoshida That's pretty cool. Next time I am in Japan I will have to look into that.
@@almostvintagestyle Good luck!!!
@@juzoyoshida Thanks!
Thedi for the win
Can't argue with that
what doe we think of FCL?
I think their patterns are awful and need a lot of work.
Far too tight clothes
What about Y2 leathers how good are they
I'd go with Freewheelers or Rainbow Country...
Double Helix ?
What about them? Sorry, not sure of the question
Thedi all the way
Very impressive, no doubt!
Hi there, You look Cool❤👍🏻👍🏻
Thank you!
I do it well o er 60 years. 75 1/2/ your stuff is b.s.
Huh? Not sure what you're saying.
☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️
Have you had a Johnson leather jacket? What ones do you like?
I would say this: price is surprisingly not too correlated to craftsmanship. The most well crafted leather product that I have were actually my Cleto Reyes boxing gloves. Not a single bad stitch. Just because a leather jacket costs 500 dollars vs 1500 dollars. The difference won't be as dramatic as you might expect for 3x the price.
I would actually say that with leather jackets, the price is a little more correlated to price than that. I have not handled any $500 jacket that is all that beautifully crafted. However, once you go over $1,000, it's a lot more murky. At that point, it really depends on the specific brand. Some are overpriced, but some do actually offer a lot despite being expensive.