This authentic WWII German motorcycle dispatch rider jacket pays homage to the Kradmelder—the motorcycle couriers who risked their lives delivering crucial orders across the battlefield. Crafted from durable green horsehide leather, it was designed to withstand the harshest wartime conditions, providing protection and functionality to riders exposed to extreme weather and combat zones. Owning this piece offers a tangible connection to a pivotal chapter in history, where each mark and stitch reflects the resilience and ingenuity of those unsung heroes.
Distinctive Craftsmanship & Design
Durable Horsehide Leather: Known for its resilience and graceful aging, the naturally distressed finish highlights its wartime origins.
Double-Breasted Front: Classic military styling with a secure inner closure for added warmth and wind resistance.
Moleskin Inner Lining: Soft, insulating fabric that underscores its utilitarian, cold-weather design.
Original Hardware: Retains period-correct Ruhr zips and buttons, enhancing its historical authenticity.
Features & Details
Era: WWII German dispatch rider gear
Material: Thick, green horsehide leather with a rich patina
Closure: Double-breasted front with secure inner closure
Pockets: Three external and internal pockets for practical storage
Construction: Heavyweight design built for endurance and protection
Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)
Chest (armpit to armpit): 24"
Underarm to Cuff: 18.5"
Shoulder Seam to Cuff: 27"
Across Shoulders (seam to seam): 19"
Back Length (bottom of collar to hem): 32"
Please compare these measurements to a similar jacket you own for the most accurate sizing.
Condition of Garment
Professionally restored and specialist leather-cleaned, this vintage jacket remains a remarkable example of WWII-era gear:
Leather Restoration: Rejuvenated horsehide retains its strength and suppleness, displaying a naturally aged dark grey finish with subtle scratches that enhance its vintage character.
Original Hardware: All zips, buttons, and construction details remain intact and functional.
Moleskin Lining: Shows marks and wear consistent with its history, underscoring its authenticity.
Despite its age, the jacket is in very good condition, offering both a historically significant collectible and a wearable piece of WWII heritage.
