Vintage 1950s German Kraftfahrer Motorcycle Jacket, Brown Leather, ZIPP Hardware

A German Kraftfahrer motorcycle jacket in dark brown leather, dating to the 1950s. The Kraftfahrer became the defining German motorcycle jacket of the post-war period, built specifically for riders and recognised for its close-fitting silhouette, robust construction and practical detailing. This example retains all the defining characteristics of the style and presents in very good condition for its age.

The cut is purposeful throughout. A stand collar fastens neatly at the throat with two original Bakelite snap buttons, while the body tapers through the waist using an integral leather belt with a brass buckle, helping the jacket sit close to the body for protection against the wind. The rear is finished with a quilted diamond-stitched panel, adding both warmth and structure, while padded shoulder reinforcements provide another distinctive feature of mid-century German motorcycle clothing.

One of the jacket's highlights is its original period hardware. The main front zip is a ZIPP, complete with the desirable lightning-bolt pull associated with German production during the late 1940s and 1950s. The angled chest pockets retain ULTRA zippers, while the lower hand pockets are fitted with Ruhr zippers. Together, these original components firmly place the jacket within post-war German manufacture and remain an important part of its authenticity.

The leather is a substantial dark brown hide which has remained supple and structurally strong over the decades. Years of genuine wear have produced a rich, natural patina across the surface, with subtle variation in tone that gives the jacket real depth and character. Inside, the original charcoal fabric lining remains clean and intact. No maker's label survives, something commonly encountered on German motorcycle jackets of this period.

The jacket presents in very good vintage condition throughout. The leather remains free from cracking or structural weakness, all seams are secure and every zip operates smoothly. It has been professionally cleaned and lightly conditioned in our workshop using specialist leather-safe products, preserving the original finish, tone and character of the hide.

A genuine 1950s Kraftfahrer jacket retaining its original period hardware, distinctive construction and honest decades of wear. Increasingly difficult to find in this condition, it remains one of the most recognisable and sought-after European motorcycle jackets of the post-war era.

Key Details

• 1950s German Kraftfahrer motorcycle jacket
• Dark brown cowhide leather with natural patina
• Stand collar with twin Bakelite snap buttons
• Original ZIPP front zipper with lightning-bolt pull
• Original ULTRA chest pocket zippers
• Original Ruhr lower pocket zippers
• Integral leather belt with brass buckle
• Quilted diamond-stitched back panel
• Padded shoulder reinforcements
• Zip-adjustable cuffs
• Original charcoal fabric lining
• No maker's label present
• Professionally cleaned and lightly conditioned
• All zips fully functional and seams secure

Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 22"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 18"
• Sleeve length (underarm to cuff): 18"
• Sleeve length (shoulder to cuff): 25.5"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 26"

The jacket is 40 inch chest. Please measure carefully and compare against the measurements above before purchasing.