I picked a Vanson Enfield jacket. They're still one of few good manufacturers left in the US. Never wore a moto jacket before and wanted to get the right fit, so I didn't want to purchase from an online store. The people at Vanson were great. They took their time, at least 2 hours on the retail floor, to find me the right jacket. What really impressed me was after the purchase, they brought me up to their manufacturing floor for a personal tour. What a buying experience.
My riding gear...
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that's one good looking jacket, terribly appropriate as well
Is Vanson a widely available brand? I have to admit I'm fairly ignorant about them....Vanson Leathers
Hi Mingu, their factory is 1 hour south of Boston and they sell direct. I think they also do custom orders. Their jackets are well made, I think they have a loyal customer base. My jacket looks very well made, the leather is thick and heavy. They also supply small "batches" to some boutiques shops like Iron&Resin and Union Garage.
Union Garage NYC | Union Garage Robinson Jacket - Jackets
Here's a little FYI about them:
Vanson Leathers Factory
Hi Mingu, their factory is 1 hour south of Boston and they sell direct. I think they also do custom orders. Their jackets are well made, I think they have a loyal customer base. My jacket looks very well made, the leather is thick and heavy. They also supply small "batches" to some boutiques shops like Iron&Resin and Union Garage.
Union Garage NYC | Union Garage Robinson Jacket - Jackets
Here's a little FYI about them:
Vanson Leathers Factory
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Very loyal. Especially those who have gone down in their gear. I've been very happy with Vanson, but I'm able to visit the factory personally.
Picked up two jackets last year. I went in to replace one that was cut off me by the paramedics. Don't ask. Vanson was trying out a new model last year that I couldn't pass on: I like this one so much, I haven't had the other one out of the closet much. These jackets take awhile to break in and will last a life-time - if you can keep the paramedics away that is.
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Picked up two jackets last year. I went in to replace one that was cut off me by the paramedics. Don't ask. Vanson was trying out a new model last year that I couldn't pass on: I like this one so much, I haven't had the other one out of the closet much. These jackets take awhile to break in and will last a life-time - if you can keep the paramedics away that is.
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The main thing left to be desired about a Vanson is the lack of modern armor in them (at least the ones I've had.)
The leather is top notch and they cut it in a way that is made to handle abrasion as best as possible.
Unlike Schott (another USA manufacturer) Vanson jackets are made for motorcycle riding, not a fashion show, so they fit tight, have tight cuffs, etc... It's a great company even though I don't currently own any of their stuff (it's expensive, doesn't fit me right.)
The leather is top notch and they cut it in a way that is made to handle abrasion as best as possible.
Unlike Schott (another USA manufacturer) Vanson jackets are made for motorcycle riding, not a fashion show, so they fit tight, have tight cuffs, etc... It's a great company even though I don't currently own any of their stuff (it's expensive, doesn't fit me right.)
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209 Posts
Well, I have no complaints with the armor from a real life test. You can always remove the armor and use something like the Knox Defender Shirt: Motorcycle Gear, Free Shipping, & HD Video Reviews - RevZillaI'll be buying either the defender shirt or the Knox Track Vest for this riding season. I'll post an update with what I think.
Fit is different. A lot of the jackets are waist coats in build ( My rapier please James) and are meant to be be zipped to the pants. Also, most of the jackets have what I call a 70s feel. Yes, I recommend that a person try one on before buying with the armor of your choice. It's why I prefer the above jacket, it has a normal fit. A little looser and longer in the body.
Expensive? Well, not cheap. Priced kevlar jeans and Roland Sands jackets? It's relative - you do get your money's worth with the Vanson Jackets.
Okay, obviously a Fan Boy
Fit is different. A lot of the jackets are waist coats in build ( My rapier please James) and are meant to be be zipped to the pants. Also, most of the jackets have what I call a 70s feel. Yes, I recommend that a person try one on before buying with the armor of your choice. It's why I prefer the above jacket, it has a normal fit. A little looser and longer in the body.
Expensive? Well, not cheap. Priced kevlar jeans and Roland Sands jackets? It's relative - you do get your money's worth with the Vanson Jackets.
Okay, obviously a Fan Boy
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979 Posts
Do new Vanson jackets have armor? The ones I've owned were pre 1995 and didn't have any padding in the shoulders, elbows, or backs.
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Yes armor is available, but depends on jacket model if buying off the shelf.
Armor types: GE Hard, Soft and CE Armorand Racing Suit Armor by Vanson Leathers
Don't qoute me. But I believe they updated the CE armor since those photos.
For fun and info: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=769QpmMavI8
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vanson.leathers/?fref=ts
Armor types: GE Hard, Soft and CE Armorand Racing Suit Armor by Vanson Leathers
Don't qoute me. But I believe they updated the CE armor since those photos.
For fun and info: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=769QpmMavI8
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vanson.leathers/?fref=ts
Vanson makes a waxed jacket for Union Garage and it has armor. A nice warm weather jacket.
Union Garage NYC | Union Garage Robinson Jacket - Jackets
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Also check out another American leather company: Fox Creek Leather. Looks like they produce quality as well as Vanson and Schott.
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