This mid-century leather jacket by Striwa, a German maker renowned for high-quality leather garments, carries the utilitarian edge of military and motorcycle design. Cut from durable goatskin, it was crafted in Germany during the 1940s, when civilian and military influences often overlapped in outerwear. While reminiscent of dispatch rider jackets used by German Kradmelder (motorcycle couriers), this example appears to have been a private-purchase or civilian piece, built with the same rugged practicality and presence.
The goatskin has developed a deep patina, with visible abrasions, light nicks, and surface wear that speak to decades of life. Unlike heavier horsehide, the goatskin retains a supple drape, its tight grain showing rich tonal shifts across the surface. Inside, the green cotton lining remains intact and solid, with expected signs of age but no rips or tears. Metal hardware includes original Opti zippers, widely used in German garments from the mid-20th century, all in smooth working order.
Striwa’s label, stitched proudly inside, underlines the jacket’s provenance as an Original Fabrikat — a mark of authenticity and quality in German tailoring. Its neat point collar, angled closure, and flapped pockets give it both presence and function, whether seen as a motorcycle jacket, a post-war workwear piece, or a collectible garment bridging civilian and military styles.
Restored through professional cleaning and conditioning, the leather has been preserved to ensure longevity while maintaining its original character.
Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)
- Chest (pit to pit): 22"
- Shoulders (seam to seam): 19.5"
- Sleeve length (shoulder to cuff): 26"
- Sleeve length (underarm to cuff): 16.5"
- Back length (collar seam to hem): 25"
Best suited for a men’s medium (around a 42" chest). Please compare the measurements with a similar jacket you own to ensure the best fit.
A rare survivor of German mid-century leather tailoring, this Striwa goatskin jacket is a piece for collectors who value authenticity, provenance, and the rugged elegance of vintage leather.
