Vintage German Horsehide Leather Motorcycle Jacket, 1940s to 1950s

This German motorcycle jacket reflects the compact, protection focused riding patterns produced in Germany during the 1940s to early 1950s. The silhouette is disciplined and close to the body, designed to sit securely in the riding position rather than hang loosely.

Constructed from dense black horsehide, the jacket carries the tensile strength and tight grain associated with mid century German production. The leather has developed a rich, layered patina, with natural creasing through the sleeves and torso that maps decades of movement. High contact areas show honest burnishing and tonal variation, adding depth without weakness. The hide remains supple, stable and structurally sound throughout.

The configuration is consistent with period German riding jackets. Twin horizontal chest zip pockets sit high across the front, with angled hand warmer pockets positioned below. Side waist adjustment straps terminate in original chrome buckles, allowing the body to be drawn in securely when worn.

The jacket is fitted with Ritsch metal zippers. Ritsch was a German zipper manufacturer active primarily from the 1930s through the 1950s, with documented usage during the wartime and immediate post war period. These zippers are widely encountered on authentic 1940s to 1950s German garments, including motorcycle jackets and aviation clothing. The presence of Ritsch hardware supports a mid century production window. One pull to the left front pocket zip has been replaced historically, while the remaining hardware is original to the garment.

Internally, the jacket retains its brown moleskin lining, typical of German riding jackets of the era. The lining remains intact and wearable. There are discreet sympathetic repairs to the inner left sleeve lining carried out historically by a previous owner. These are neat and do not affect structure or wearability.

A serious mid century German riding jacket defined by material integrity, correct period hardware and authentic surface character.

Condition and Preservation

The jacket presents in very good overall condition for its age.

The horsehide remains supple and evenly toned with no cracking, panel weakness or instability. Surface wear is consistent with long term use and preservation.

The hardware was previously seized with corrosion and no longer functional. All zips and metal components have since been carefully refurbished and restored to full working order in our workshop. The Ritsch zippers now operate smoothly and reliably. Chrome side buckles remain intact and functional.

The garment has been professionally cleaned and conditioned using a preservation led approach. No structural reconstruction to the outer leather was required.

Key Identifying Features

• 1940s to 1950s German motorcycle jacket
• Dense black horsehide construction
• Compact mid century riding silhouette
• Twin horizontal chest zip pockets
• Angled hand warmer pockets
• Ritsch metal zippers consistent with 1930s to 1950s German production
• Historically replaced pull to left front pocket zip
• Chrome side waist adjustment buckles
• Brown moleskin interior lining
• Discreet historical repair to inner left sleeve lining
• Professionally cleaned and hardware refurbished

Garment Measurements Laid Flat

• Chest armpit to armpit: 22"
• Shoulders seam to seam: 18"
• Sleeve length shoulder seam to cuff: 24.5"
• Sleeve length underarm seam to cuff: 16.5"
• Back length collar seam to hem: 23"

Best suited to approximately 38-40 inch chest size. Small frame. Please compare measurements with a similar garment to ensure correct fit.