When you think of investing in a biker jacket and start looking for it, you may realize that not all leather types are created equally. You don’t have to make quick decisions, especially when you are going to spend on an expensive clothing item – a leather motorcycle jacket. Take your time, have complete knowledge, and then make an informed decision.
Have you ever come across the terms naked leather, drum-dyed, and embossed leather? Maybe, but what do they actually mean? Well, each leather type has unique characteristics, looks, and performance that can completely change your experience.
Let’s walk you through the brief knowledge about naked leather and the finishing so that you may understand why quality leather is more than just a fashion statement.
What is Naked Leather?
As we know, leather is a natural material and comes from animal origin. But the leather goes through different procedures and phases to get into the desired piece of clothing. Naked leather is actually a naturally dyed form without any modification, synthetic finishes, or treatments – a full-grain cowhide leather. This is one of the premium qualities of leather that feels very soft against your skin, and that is why it is also very expensive. Not all leather is selected as naked leather, as it has to pass the uniformity test and is only declared as naked after hand selection for thickness, smoothness, and minor defects. If we are to say this in simple terms, naked leather is the leather without finishing and has minor imperfections like unfinished hides.
But you know the best part? Naked leather adapts to the shape of your body, and you don’t even need to break it in. The thickness can vary from 0.5mm to 1.4mm and offers durability with strength.
What is Leather Finishing and Why is it Important?
As the name indicates, the leather finishing is the final stage that defines the look of your leather jacket. During this stage, your leather essential goes through a different process that involves chemicals to enhance its appearance, texture, and performance. Think of it like this: finishing is what makes your leather stiff, supple, durable, or soft whenever you touch the surface of the hide. It also creates a layer that protects your leather underneath.
Why does it matter? Whenever you are going to buy your motorcycle leather jacket, you are going to select according to your purpose, style, color, and performance fabric. So, knowing about finishing is what gives you the control to select your leather jacket based on your preferences. A premium quality naked cowhide leather with milled finishing creates a unique look, either a dark or light color, and makes it stain resistant and protects against humidity and temperature changes.
Leather Finishing Types:
After choosing what type of leather you are going to buy, the next thing you must decide is its finishing type. The following are the types of leather finishing that give a particular look and feel you may want in your leather jacket:
Semi-Aniline Leather: Semi-aniline leather finishing has an extra protective layer compared to naked leather. This layer of pigmentation protects the biker jackets and vests from wear and tear and also prevents fading without losing the natural grain.
Suede Leather: Suede leather has a unique surface with fuzzy finishing and is made from the underside of animal hide. This type of leather finishing absorbs moisture easily, which makes it more prone to damage.
Embossed Leather: Ever seen a leather jacket with a snake or dragon skin appearance? Well, that is an embossed leather article. So, a leather finished with patterns and engraved designs by using heat and pressure is what we call embossed leather.
Antique Grain Leather: A vintage appearance that highlights the texture of the hide and often appears as two-toned, this leather finishing offers a durable and classic look.
Drum‑Dyed Leather: This type of leather finishing is made after immersing the hides in a large drum filled with dye. This finishing process penetrates deep into the leather and offers rich tones.
Milled Leather: A milled leather finishing involves putting leather in a drum and rotating it under the effect of heat. This milling process helps to soften the leather and slightly raises the grain to give a more pronounced look. Plain Milled Cowhide bears a more natural look without heavy finishing, while Soft Milled Cowhide specifically goes through an additional softness enhancement process for a luxurious feel.
How Leather Quality Impacts Your Riding Experience?
As we discussed, each type of leather and finishing offers unique benefits. So, now you have to decide which one to buy according to your needs. Let’s be real, wearing a leather jacket is not just about looks, especially if you are a rider and know about the safety and functionality you require whenever hitting the road. A premium-quality leather jacket gives you a wholesome experience. Here is how:
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A quality leather jacket can protect you from extreme weather conditions.
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Although it is costly, full-grain naked leather lasts for years, which makes it worth spending on.
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The good-quality leather jackets adapt to your body shape and offer comfort
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Wearing motorcycle gear that allows you the freedom of movement in all riding positions, while also providing safety, is what makes you experience the luxury.
Shop Premium-Quality Riding Gear at Daniel Smart Manufacturing:
At Daniel Smart Manufacturing, we prefer the comfort and functionality of premium-quality leather jackets and vests rather than offering options that compromise on safety but are cost-effective. Our biker jackets feature premium full-grain naked leather with prime finishing to offer durability, style, and performance. Shop from our range of collections:
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Men's Leather Biker Jackets and Vests
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Women's Leather Vests and Biker Jackets
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Leather Motorcycle Boots
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Customized Riding Gear
Whether you are a part of the biker community or just need protection during your ride in the countryside, our motorcycle jacket for women and men is designed to offer the comfort you deserve while providing the functionality you need.
Final Thoughts:
Investing in a biker jacket made from high-quality leather is not merely a fashion decision; it is about selecting the right material that enhances both your comfort and safety while riding. Understanding the naked leather and finishing types allows you to make an informed choice that suits your personal style and riding needs. Remember, a well-chosen leather jacket for men is not just an item of clothing – it's a trusty companion for your journeys ahead.
FAQs:
Can you wear a leather jacket in the rain?
Wearing a leather jacket in the rain is not entirely a bad choice as long as you condition your leather jacket and follow proper care techniques.
What type of leather is the best?
Full-grain naked leather is the premium quality leather, but the type of leather you should choose totally depends on what you need it for.
How do I take care of a naked leather jacket?
Use a high-quality leather conditioner every few months and store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid soaking it in water or direct sunlight for long periods.