1950s German Horsehide Leather Jacket - Medium (42-44)

This jacket is a time capsule from the golden age of post-war motorcycling in Germany. Built in the early 1950s, it embodies the spirit of a country getting back on its feet—and back on the road. Riders needed gear that could handle long miles, unpredictable weather, and the grit of everyday use. This horsehide motorcycle jacket delivered all that with quiet strength and practical design.

Cut from heavy brown horsehide, the leather has softened over time, developing a natural sheen and patina that can’t be replicated. The interior is lined with original tan viscose—light, smooth, and understated. Hardware details include a Ries main zipper and Opti pocket zips, blending wartime surplus engineering with emerging post-war craftsmanship. Every detail speaks to its era—from the shape of the collar to the cut of the back, made to move and made to last.

The jacket has been professionally cleaned and conditioned using specialist techniques for vintage horsehide, ensuring it retains its flexibility, strength, and character. The original zippers have been polished and lubricated for smooth operation, and the collar shows hand-stitched repairs made decades ago—left untouched as a tribute to the care and utility this jacket once saw. The viscose lining has subtle stitch repairs that blend seamlessly into its story.

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (pit to pit): 23"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 18.5"
• Sleeve length (shoulder to cuff): 26.5"
• Sleeve length (underarm to cuff): 17"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 27"

Best suited for a 42 Regular chest with a close, tailored fit. May also work for a slim 44 depending on styling preferences. For best results, compare with a similar jacket.

An iconic example of post-war German roadwear—lived in, well-loved, and ready for the next chapter.