Estimated 1960s, a French-made leather riders jacket.
A rare arrival at our shop—a French-made riders jacket. While the brand details remain unknown, there is something compelling about the provenance being French rather than American or British.
The leather jacket is said to have originated from outerwear worn by German fighter pilots in the final stages of World War I, around 1918.
Then in 1928, Schott became the first to manufacture the now-iconic Perfecto model specifically designed for riders.
A marked departure from the restrictive jackets of earlier years that hindered riding, the Perfecto featured an angled front zipper to accommodate a forward-leaning posture, and zippered pockets to prevent the loss of small items. These innovations quickly established the riders jacket as an indispensable piece in motorcycle culture.
What strikes one as particularly remarkable is that the essential details of the riders jacket worn today were essentially perfected nearly a century ago, and remain largely unchanged. This continuity speaks to something profound about design and utility.
By the 1970s and 80s, the riders jacket transcended its original purpose. Through the punk rock movement and adoption by musicians, it became a symbol of countercultural defiance.
Though engineered for riders, the jacket now appears in collections across luxury houses and contemporary brands alike. It has become an essential item in modern fashion.
Understanding this history deepens one's appreciation for the jacket and the wear it accumulates.
This particular example embodies all the defining details of the classic riders jacket.
Zippered pockets at the chest and hem for storage, waist adjusters to seal against wind—each detail speaks to its original function. The fit is tailored to the body with riding in mind.
The front closure is a full zip.
The fabric appears to be Sheep Skin.
Sheep skin comes from animals over one year old. Among leathers, it is the lightest and softest, though less durable than hides from other animals. Yet this very quality—the way it clings to the body—makes it exceptional for comfort and fit.
Many avoid leather jackets believing they will be stiff and unyielding. Such concerns are unfounded here. This leather has already softened beautifully, clinging to the body with remarkable suppleness. The wearing experience is effortless.
The jacket's greatest distinction is its color—a vibrant orange seldom seen in riders jackets. The turquoise stripe running from shoulder to cuff provides an elegant accent.
This is a piece that commands attention; slip it on and the outfit is complete. We suggest wearing it simply, letting the jacket speak for itself.
No size tag is visible, though it appears to align with a Japanese M to L.
Judging by the measurements, this sits comfortably within an ideal range for Japanese proportions. A fitting range for most builds. In the tradition of the riders jacket, it is best worn close to the body.
There is wear visible—scuffing, marks, creasing, minor tears, and some hardware loss—yet nothing that compromises the jacket's function. It remains entirely wearable.
The riders jacket remains essential to contemporary style. It serves equally as authentic workwear and as an effortless article of fashion, versatile in every context.
To choose French over American or British reads as a considered, knowing decision.
A timeless piece that transcends fashion. Should you be seeking one, this may be the occasion.
