Description

The years immediately after WW2 saw the rise of the leather motorcycle jacket and its change from merely a functional piece of riding gear into an iconic symbol of rebellion and counterculture.

As the years went on, the leather motorcycle jacket continued to evolve and take on new styles and designs, but classic features typically included a cross zip, studded shoulder epaulettes and lapels, a functional waist belt and an eclectic pocket set up.

Aero offer a range of these classic 1950s vintage-style motorcycle jackets – both faithful original recreations like our revered Indian Ranger replica, and our very own stunning designs which cherry pick the best elements of the era like our ‘King of the Road’.

Our Type J-106 is a replica one of the most legendary designs of the era. First introduced by the Joseph Buegeleisen Company (Buco) in the 1950s, the Type J-106 quickly became one of the most ubiquitous motorcycle jacket designs. This heavy Horsehide Jacket features a handwarmer pocket and a small stud-down ticket pocket contained with ‘D-pocket’ styling, studded epaulettes and a full ‘action back’ for extra movement when riding. The sleeves have adjustable zip cuffs and the jacket is fastened by a cross zip. Waist adjustment is by an attached belt.

Wearing one of our vintage motorcycle jacket designs is like taking a step back in time, to an era when motorcycles and leather jackets were synonymous with rebellion, freedom, and adventure. There’s a certain romance to that idea for riders/non-riders alike, and it’s a magic that modern jackets simply can’t replicate.

Design Etymology

Returning U.S. WW2 soldiers brought their love for motorcycles and the rugged leather jackets worn during the war back home with them, and the jackets quickly became a staple of biker culture and became a symbol of the rebellion and nonconformity. First introduced by the Joseph Buegeleisen Company (Buco) in the 1950s, the Type J-106 quickly gained popularity among motorcyclists due to its high-quality construction and classic design. The J-106 became a cultural icon of motorcycle fashion and its popularity continued to grow among riders and non-riders alike. This endured throughout the decades, with the J-106 gaining a following among members of the punk rock and rockabilly subcultures in the 1970s and 1980s – its classic design and tough exterior embodied the rebellious spirit of these movements and helped to establish the jacket as an enduring cultural icon. The J-106 remains a sought-after piece among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors, and its impact on motorcycle fashion and culture continues to be felt today.

Sizing

This jacket is a 1940’s style which features a slightly slimmer fit than is typical of motorcycle jackets.

While there is extra room around the shoulders and a bi-swing back to provide more room for movement (particularly when riding), the jacket offers a straighter, more narrow cut with less of a taper throughout the body than most of our other motorcycle jackets. We usually suggest ordering your usual size for the intended slimmer fit or sizing up for a more relaxed fit.

For further general sizing information, please see our sizing FAQ section. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for there, please get in touch.

Don’t worry, all sizing information displayed here is only a guide. Every order placed is checked over by a member of our production team who will confirm your size selection against your measurements or recommend any necessary changes that need to be made. If you have any specific queries, you can note these in the special instructions box on the ‘measurements’ page when placing your order.