Men's leather jackets

Men's leather jackets improve with age in a way almost nothing else in a wardrobe does, softening and taking on character rather than simply wearing out.

Leather type and construction

Cut in a full-grain leather or a softer lambskin depending on the style, the hide is chosen for its ability to develop a natural patina at the points of wear — elbows, cuffs, the front placket — rather than cracking or flaking the way a bonded or heavily treated leather does. A quilted lining in the heavier biker-inspired styles adds structure through the shoulders, while a lighter unlined bomber suits milder weather.

Why full-grain leather outlasts other finishes

A full-grain leather jacket will typically outlast a corrected-grain or bonded leather alternative by well over a decade under normal wear, since the surface hasn't been sanded and refinished to hide natural imperfections. This is a distinction Hackett London has applied consistently to its leather outerwear since the brand's earliest collections.

A dark brown leather jacket over a merino jumper and jeans for a weekend look.
The same jacket over a shirt for an evening that runs later than expected.

What's the difference between full-grain and bonded leather?

Full-grain leather retains the natural surface of the hide and develops a patina over time, while bonded leather is made from scraps and coatings bound together, wearing out and cracking far sooner.

How should a leather jacket be cleaned?

A leather-specific conditioner applied every few months keeps the hide supple, while professional leather cleaning is recommended over any household detergent or water-based cleaning method.

Do leather jackets need to be stored differently in summer?

Leather should be kept on a broad-shouldered hanger away from direct heat or sunlight, which can dry and crack the surface over an extended period of storage.