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So I been looking at leather jackets cowhide type. But I'm wondering what a good thickness is. I see anywhere from 1.1 all the way to 3mm, but most sit at 1.1-1.5mm. Is this any judge of how well you are protected or am I just dillusional in thinking this. I want to get a jacket with body armor as well. And have been seeing some good deals online for jackets at sub 200 around 1.4mm thickness.

Like I said I'm not sure this means anything so help a noobie out please!

Thanks.

1.1 to 1.4 is the general range of "heavyweight" leather that is used on most motorcycle gear. The heavier the weight, the better the protection and resistance to abrasion. "Super heavyweight" leather can get up to 3.0 and heavier, but you usually only find this on expensive racing outfits used by the pros.

Most motorcycle shops will carry a good selection of heavyweight leather with or without armour inserts. Some of the online deals you see may look good on the screen, but you'll have no idea if they fit properly until you've already spent your money. It's like buying a helmet; a size Large Bell may not fit you as well as a size Large Arai and you won't know for sure until you physically try both of them on. If you have your eye on a particular brand or style of jacket, you'd be much better off finding a dealer who has some in stock so you can try it on before you buy, as well as make comparisons with other brands.

In the end, your choices and options are limited by your wallet, really.

^I dunno man the site I was looking at has a full money back or exchange guarantee. File return within 15 days of receiving. I don't know it almost seems worth it to take the chance on it, but maybe I will go out and look places.

I figured that 1.1-1.4 would be regular heavyweight leather/abrasion resistance.

Thanks alot man!

I appreciate the help.

Its still a PITA to return stuff unless you get it right the first time.

I tend to buy anything except helmets online, though. The sizing for my Olympia gear ran true to their sizing charts.

RhadamYgg

Usually what I do is find a jacket I like looks wise, then go to the local shop and try on a similar jacket by the same maker. If I like it, then I'll just buy it at the shop.

Sadly I went to check the only non-dealer that had this sort of stuff and they closed down. Sad state here. Some dealers are very expensive when it comes to gear. I think I'll just take a shot at this jacket and pray for the best.

Thing is with leather that it's not just the thickness of the hides, but the quality of stuff like the stitching and zippers that matter. Plus all the budget stuff is made in China or Pakistan. I'm a huge, huge fan of Fox Creek leather stuff. http://www.foxcreekleather.com/ I consider a leather jacket something that I'll live with for years, more like a dog than a wife (he types, knowing no one else in his household knows how to access this forum).

RockBottom wrote:I consider a leather jacket something that I'll live with for years, more like a dog than a wife (he types, knowing no one else in his household knows how to access this forum).

Those are some bold words there.

Johnj wrote:Those are some bold words there.

Yep. He done went and stuck his head outta the shark cage. There can be but only one ending now...

Next weekend is my 32d anniversary so my head is no longer a vital organ. I can function without it.