Getting the right fit is the single biggest factor in how good a leather jacket looks and feels, so this leather jacket sizing guide walks through exactly how to measure yourself and read our size chart correctly. A jacket that fits well through the shoulders and chest will always look better than one that is simply the “right” label size, since leather sits and moves differently to fabric.
How to Measure Yourself for a Leather Jacket
Use a soft tape measure and take these three measurements over a light shirt, not bare skin:
- Chest: measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level
- Waist: measure around your natural waistline, just above the hip bone
- Sleeve length: measure from the shoulder seam to the wrist bone with your arm slightly bent
Reading Our Size Chart
Once you have your measurements, compare them against our full Size Chart, which lists chest, waist and sleeve measurements for every size from XS to 3XL across our men’s and women’s ranges. If you fall between two sizes, size up rather than down, since leather can be taken in slightly by a tailor but cannot easily be let out.
Fit Tips by Jacket Style
Different leather jacket styles are designed to fit differently. A bomber jacket should sit close at the ribbed hem and cuffs but stay roomy through the body for layering. A biker jacket is meant to fit close and slim through the chest and waist, since it is designed to be worn zipped up. A tailored leather blazer should follow your natural shoulder line without pulling across the back.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring over a thick jumper, which adds several centimetres to your chest measurement
- Assuming your usual fabric jacket size matches your leather jacket size, since cuts vary by brand and material
- Ignoring sleeve length, which is one of the hardest measurements to alter after purchase
- Buying too tight expecting the leather to stretch quickly, when it actually softens gradually over weeks of wear
Following this leather jacket sizing guide closely before you order is the easiest way to avoid a return or exchange. Taking five extra minutes to measure properly against our size chart means your jacket will fit right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does leather stretch over time? Yes, genuine leather naturally stretches and softens with wear, so a snug fit at first will relax slightly after a few weeks of regular use.
What if I am between two sizes on the leather jacket sizing guide? Choose the larger size, since a leather jacket that is slightly loose can be adjusted by a tailor, while one that is too tight cannot.
Do men’s and women’s sizes follow the same chart? No, our size chart lists separate measurements for men’s and women’s styles, so always check the correct table for the jacket you are buying.
Can I return a jacket that does not fit? Yes, see our Shipping and Returns page for the full exchange policy.
How often should I re-measure myself? Body shape can change over time, so it is worth re-checking your measurements against the size chart every year or two, especially before buying a new style you have not worn before.
Should I size up for winter layering? If you plan to wear thick jumpers underneath, size up one from your usual measurement so the jacket still closes comfortably over extra layers.
Still unsure about sizing? Use this leather jacket sizing guide alongside our full size chart, or contact us and we will help you find the perfect fit before you order.
