Men's aviator jackets, in leather or with a hood

Which men's jacket to choose?

The aviator jacket, usually made of leather or nylon with a fur collar, comes from military pilots' uniforms. The smooth leather jacket, with a shirt collar or asymmetrical zip, remains the ultimate rock piece. The college jacket, with contrasting sleeves and press studs, originates from American campus sports teams.

The hooded jacket, made of cotton or technical fabric, is the most casual: it’s perfect for everyday wear like a sports jacket.

Mid-season jacket or winter jacket?

A mid-season men's jacket is light, not heavily lined, and works well in spring and autumn over a t-shirt or shirt. For winter, look for padding, a fur collar or high collar, and snug cuffs that keep out the cold air.

Leather jacket: how to choose it?

A men's leather jacket should fit snugly at the shoulders when you try it on: leather softens and moulds to your body but doesn’t stretch. Full-grain leather ages well over time; synthetic leather, being lighter and low-maintenance, handles rain better.

Suede and nubuck, being softer, are more susceptible to water and stains: a waterproofing spray applied before the first wear can protect them.

How to wear a men's jacket?

A jacket is worn open over a white t-shirt or a men's sweatshirt, with a pair of raw denim jeans and boots or trainers. A fur-lined aviator jacket serves as a coat over a thick jumper.

The college jacket and the hooded jacket go well with joggers or cargo pants, fitting into a streetwear vibe.

What size jacket to take?

The jacket should hit at the hip without riding up when you raise your arms. Stick to your usual size to wear it over a t-shirt, and check that a sweatshirt fits underneath if you plan to wear it in winter.

Which jacket brands to choose?

These jacket brands cover everything from leather to streetwear.

• The Perfecto, a leather motorcycle jacket, made its name with Schott, a family-run business from New York.
• Project X Paris, a Parisian streetwear brand, offers hooded jackets and techwear jackets.
• Aviator jackets for the US Army: that’s the story of Alpha Industries, founded in Knoxville.
• Geox, an Italian brand known for its breathable membrane, also produces jackets.
• From the Danish group Bestseller, Jack & Jones offers jackets made from synthetic leather.
• Superdry, from Cheltenham, blends American vintage style with Japanese-inspired graphics on its college jackets.

What other jackets to choose?

Other men's jackets have their own page: men's bombers with ribbed cuffs, as well as men's jackets that are mid-season or waterproof. The whole family is on the jackets and blousons page.

When to find discounted jackets?

A jacket can be worn from autumn to spring: Black Friday and winter sales occur right in the middle of the season for a cheap men's jacket, with summer sales out of season.

For discounted jackets, check three pages: Black Friday in autumn, men's clothing sales during the sales, promotions all year round. Fast shipping and best price guaranteed.

Frequently asked questions

How to soften a new leather jacket?

Nothing beats wearing it in: over time, the leather shapes to your shoulders and elbows. A nourishing cream for leather, applied in a thin layer, speeds up the fitting process.

Does an aviator jacket keep you warm in winter?

Yes, if it’s lined with synthetic fur or sheepskin and closed with a high collar. Over a jumper, a fur-lined jacket replaces a coat in the city.

How to maintain a synthetic leather jacket?

Wipe it with a damp cloth and mild soap, without machine washing unless otherwise stated. Avoid direct heat, which can crack the coating.

What’s the difference between a jacket and a bomber?

All bombers are jackets, but not vice versa: a bomber is recognised by its ribbed cuffs at the collar, wrists, and hem. Bombers have their own page.

How to store a leather jacket in summer?

On a wide hanger, in a breathable fabric cover, away from sunlight and moisture. A plastic cover prevents the leather from breathing.