When you go to buy a black leather jacket or browse online for one, you will know that these leather jackets will not come cheap. Today, Black leather jackets have become iconic symbols of sophistication and rebellion. Some of them cost a lot as they are made of high class leather with great features in it. At first you may think that you are only paying for the brand name, but once you receive it you will find the difference between the cheap and high-quality jacket. In this blog, let’s look into the difference between cheap and expensive leather jackets, and some of the reasons why these black leather jackets are so expensive.
“Cheap” or “Expensive” Leather Jacket
When you go shopping for a black leather jacket, you may find a jacket that can be only for $100 and the other jacket for $1,000 both black and leather made. So, what will be the difference in both jackets? There are many faux leather jackets available in the market. These jackets are made of synthetic materials or low-grade hides. It will look good and in great condition from afar, but when you see it closely, you may find many flaws such as uneven surface, lightweight, shiny plastic. And if you buy that jacket you will notice that there will be cracks or start to peel after one or two seasons. These are the cheap black leather jackets.
On the other hand, if you go for an expensive black leather jacket, you will find that it is made from high quality material which is processed carefully, stitched with precision and lasts for years. These jackets get softer overtime and also age well.
Reasons Why Black Leather Jackets So Expensive
Material Matters: The Type of Leather Used
The type of leather that is used to make a perfect jacket plays a big role in terms of cost. Following are some common types which you can find in an expensive jacket:
· Cowhide is one of the most durable and commonly used types. These are known to be strong, thick and for heavy duty wear it is perfect. It is also the most expensive to process.
· Lambskin is known for its softness and lightweight feel. This leather gives you the luxurious feel and also it drapes smoothly. It is more delicate and also comes with higher price tags.
· Goatskin is in-between cowhide as well as lambskin when it comes to texture and durability. Military jackets are made from this kind of leather.
· Buffalo or Bison are known as extremely tough and rugged. It is used for jackets that need a bit of durability.
Full grain or top grain are for the premium jackets that are the uppermost stronger layers of hide. They require skills for handling during production and are more expensive to source. However, lower priced jackets are made from genuine leather. These jackets are made from the leftover scraps which bonded together.
Tanning and Processing Costs
Before leather becomes that sleek material, it goes through a long and detailed process which is called tanning. This isn’t a quick or cheap task. There are two main tanning processes.
- Vegetable Tanning is done as a traditional and natural method. In this process plant extracts are used. It may take several days or weeks which then creates patina over time. It is also the most environmentally friendly process and also costly and time consuming.
- Moreover, Chrome Tanning is the faster as well as the cheaper method. It is done by using chemicals and produces softer leather. However, it is not as eco-friendly or long-lasting compared to vegetable tanning.
- Luxury brands often go for vegetable tanning as it enhances the leather’s texture and longevity. That kind of quality comes with the great price.
- Additionally, the dyeing process, the finishing treatments such as waterproofing or oiling and further inspections for the imperfections are all added to the final cost.
Heavy-duty Stitching and Hardware Cost
If you are paying for the high end jackets then this means you are paying for leather. However, when you buy a black leather jacket the details matter, especially the stitching and the hardware. Quality jackets are stitched with the threads that are durable and double the price of stitching in the stressful areas only to prevent wear and tear. This is one of the tasks that takes more time and skills of a person. However, you also noticed the zipper and buttons. These jackets have heavy duty zippers that glide smoothly. Some brands provide polished, rust resistant and built to last hardware.
And lastly, linings also play the most imp-ortat role in the black leather jackets. A great jacket has a breathable as well as comfortable lining which is often made of silk, or cotton, especially for the winter style jacket. The more original black leather jacket becomes the more hours it goes under for production, which raises prices to enhance the beauty of the final piece.
Brand and Marketing Cost
Branding is also one of the reasons that affects the cost more than you would expect. A jacket bought from a high end store can easily cost you thousands, even though the raw materials seem to be similar to mid-range. It is about perception and identity. These luxury brands invest more in marketing and advertising such as magazine shoots, endorsements and also worldwide campaigns. The jackets become more expensive as these brands offer more than just a jacket. They offer from polished showroom to personalized customer services which means the sell a lifestyle not just a jacket. There is no denying that buying a black leather jacket from the fashion stores and brand recognition adds a premium.
Summary
In summary, due to many reasons black leather jackets are expensive. Behind the stylish look, it is a complete process of premium materials, craftsmanship, designs that are high ends, and production choices. Everything takes time from quality to time; every step adds value. Branding, designing and hardware detailing make the price further. If you are going for an expensive jacket, you will get the long-lasting companion that stays with you for years. You could go for the cheaper versions of the jacket, but if you are looking for durability and comfort that a well-made black leather jacket is worth your money. The jacket is expensive as it’s built to last and look good while doing it.