What Men's Leather Jacket to Buy: 6 Classic Styles

The moto jacket is made for the rebel in all of us. Short for "motorcycle", this style is inspired by classic, heavyweight motorcycle jackets—but it's not intended for use as protective gear. Built for looks instead of speed, the moto is made of softer, more lightweight leather and streamlined with clean lines and spare details. It typically has a front zip, two zip pockets, and a small snap over a band collar.

If your style is more laid-back, rugged, or rooted in Americana, a handsome leather barn or field jacket might suit you. The barn jacket was originally designed for hardworking farmers but has evolved to be an urban staple. Typically loose fitting, a classic barn jacket is hip-length, has a zip or button front, and clean lines. The field jacket has U.S. military origins and a similar shape—but with four front flap pockets, a front storm placket, and an adjustable waist drawstring inside. If you're one who appreciates pockets, the field has plenty of space for all the essentials.

A quality leather blazer will take your fabric blazer collection to the next level. Smooth and classic, this style is designed like its fabric predecessors—lightly structured shoulder, button closure, notch lapel, and handsome drape—but crafted from rugged, durable leather. Extremely versatile, leather blazers offer weekend-through-weekday wearability.

The leather vest has a long history with those who ride. Ranchers and cowboys have worn this iconic style at the rodeo and in the city for decades, and bikers claimed it as a symbol of rebellion in the '80s and '90s. If you love the open road, the leather vest offers handsome layering options for day and night.

When you're looking for lightweight, versatile layering pieces, you'll find plenty of options with a leather shirt jacket. It has the same cut and details as the button-downs in your closet (shirt collar, button front and cuffs, etc.), but it's crafted from smooth, supple leather for rugged durability.