Post-War German Rider’s Jacket – Tough, Timeless, Original
This is more than just a jacket—it’s a survivor from the dawn of Germany’s post-war motorcycle culture. Crafted in the late 1940s to early 1950s, this horsehide leather motorcycle jacket carries the unmistakable grit of its era. Emerging from a nation rebuilding itself after WWII, it was made for civilian riders eager to reclaim their freedom, speed, and purpose on the open road.
Cut from thick, battle-worthy horsehide, it was built to withstand countless miles. The deep green leather—softened with age and etched with authentic wear—tells stories of journeys past. Inside, a green moleskin lining offers premium warmth, a feature reserved for serious riding gear. Finished with original Ries zippers and a Gutos belt buckle, it locks snugly at the waist for secure, fast riding. Every scuff, crease, and bit of patina roars with post-war German roads—from cobbled village streets to newly opened autobahns.
Distinctive Craftsmanship & Design
Thick Horsehide Leather: Heavy and rugged, engineered to withstand rough conditions while developing a striking, authentic patina.
Deep Green Hue: Softened over decades of wear, carrying scars and creases that speak to its storied past.
Original Ries Zippers & Gutos Buckle: Hallmarks of German quality bridging wartime and post-war craftsmanship, ensuring both authenticity and reliable function.
Green Moleskin Lining: Warm and durable, a premium interior detail reflecting the jacket’s serious, purpose-built design.
Features & Details
Era: Late 1940s to early 1950s (Post-War Germany)
Material: Heavy horsehide leather
Lining: Original green moleskin
Hardware: Original Ries zippers & Gutos belt buckle
Pockets: Four zippered front pockets for tools and essentials
Fit: Adjustable belted waist for a secure fit on the bike
Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)
Across the Chest: 23"
Underarm to Cuff: 17.5"
Shoulder Seam to Cuff: 27.5"
Across the Shoulders: 17.5"
Back Length (bottom of collar to hem): 29"
Best suited for a 42 Regular chest or a slim 44. Originally designed to be worn close to the body, fitting snugly like a second skin. For the best fit, please compare these measurements to a jacket you already own.
Condition & Restoration
This jacket has been professionally cleaned using specialist heritage leather techniques, then dressed with a custom conditioner to restore flexibility while preserving every mark of its past.
Refurbished Hardware: The once-rusted Ries zippers have been polished and lubricated for smooth operation, and the Gutos belt buckle remains strong and functional.
Distinctive Wear: The right arm shows a pitted texture that adds raw character, while naturally distressed horsehide throughout has been intentionally preserved to celebrate its storied life.
Hand-Stitched Repairs: Decades-old collar repairs reveal the practical mindset of a rider who truly depended on this jacket.
Intact Moleskin Lining: Remarkably preserved with no rips or tears—rare for a piece of this age and utility.
The deep, organic glow of its patina testifies to countless hours on the road. This is a jacket that doesn’t just tell a story—it roars it.
