The best affordable leather jackets for men The best affordable leather jackets for men

The Holy Grail
of Leather Jackets

Who makes the best
affordable leather jackets?

Back in 1974, ABC thought leather jackets were too edgy for primetime television. The network decided Arthur Fonzarelli could only don the rebel outwear while standing next to his beloved motorcycle or while riding—otherwise loafers and a windbreaker would have to do. Fortunately, Happy Days' producers found a loophole: safety. Concerned the audience would worry about Fonzie getting too cold while riding around Milwaukee, ABC decided the leather jacket could stay. Probably a smart move because the jacket garnered enough pop-culture significance to become item #1980.0094.01 in the Smithsonian Museum of American History.

Fonzie Leather Jacket in the Smithsonian Museum of American History

Fonzie's jacket from Happy Days

Fonzie Leather Jacket in the Smithsonian Museum of American History

Fonzie's jacket
from Happy Days

The Fonz wasn't the only character/icon/badass to wear a leather jacket, but his rule-breaking piece is definitely one of the more memorable jackets in sartorial history. Of course, Steve McQueen, numerous James Bonds, and countless other leading men have owned the look, but luckily for us regular guys, leather jackets have found a role as a more accessible, everyday look. And bonus, they're now available at more affordable price points than ever before.

In addition to the timelessness, their multi-purpose seasonality is another positive when you weigh the pros and cons of dropping money on one. With the right layering and care they'll survive most of winter's temperatures, and with jeans, canvas sneakers and a t-shirt, they're the simplest spring transition piece. It's never been a better time to step into the spotlight ,and at $500 or less, it's worth giving the classic look a chance.

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Best Affordable Options

H&M Leather Jacket

H&M, $299

Andrew Marc Leather Jacket

A quilted lining and removable genuine shearling collar add extra warmth and a subtle style flex.

Andrew Marc, $695 / $486.50

Buck Mason Leather Jacket

It fits and feels like a jacket you've had for years—but without all the hard work of breaking it in.

Buck Mason, $495

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Gap Leather Jacket

Gap, $368

DSTLD Leather Jacket

Without extra zippers, pockets or straps, this sleek bomber is more minimalist and professional.

DSTLD, $300

Topman Leather Jacket

Topman, $220

Leather care guide

Protect Your Leather:

Whether it's a jacket, your boots, a bag or even a vintage club chair, proper care will prolong the life of your leather.

Allsaints Leather Jacket

Allsaints, $498

Leather care guide

Protect Your Leather:

Whether it's a jacket, your boots, a bag or even a vintage club chair, proper care will prolong the life of your leather.

More on
Seasonal Dressing

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