Leather Jacket Size Guide: How to Measure Yourself and Find the Right Fit

One of the few garments that actually come in a size is a leather jacket. A cotton hoodie will let you have a bad fit. Leather doesn’t. Wide shoulders lend a borrowed look to the whole outfit. When the chest is too constricted, it is impossible to move. And leather only stretches slightly, so it's not possible to correct the size with a few washes.

Fortunately, knowing what to measure when determining your size is easy. Fancy a tailoring service is not required. You will require a soft tape measure, 10 minutes and this guide.

This leather jacket size guide explains how to measure yourself, how to measure an existing jacket, how to use a size chart and which size to choose for every type of leather jacket. You'll also discover what to do if you're in between sizes, how to size for layers, and the top mistakes people tend to make when ordering online. Let’s get started.

Quick Answer: How Do You Find Your Leather Jacket Size?

Here’s the short version.

1. Measure your chest, shoulders, sleeve length, and waist.
2. Measure a leather jacket you already own and love.
3. Compare both sets of numbers with the store’s size chart.
4. Choose the size that fits your shoulders first.
5. Leave a little room in the chest for a layer.
6. If you’re between sizes, think about how you’ll wear the jacket.

The rest of this guide explains each step.

Why Leather Jacket Sizing Is Different

Leather isn’t like other fabrics. Understanding this helps you choose better.

It stretches only a little. Leather gives slightly with wear, mostly in the elbows and the back. But it doesn’t stretch like knit cotton. A jacket that’s too tight will never feel loose.

It softens, not grows. Over time, leather relaxes and molds to your body. That makes a snug fit more comfortable later. It doesn’t turn a small size into a large one.

It has structure. Leather holds its shape. Shoulders, collars, and sleeves keep their form. A poor fit in those areas shows right away.

Sizes vary between brands. One brand’s medium can be another brand’s small. Always use the size chart for the specific store, not just the letter on the tag.

Thickness changes fit. A thick cowhide jacket feels snugger than a thin lambskin jacket of the same size, because it has less give.

Keep these points in mind as you measure.

What You Need to Measure

Some simple tools are required.

• A flexible, soft tape measure (for sewing purposes)
• Someone who is a friend to assist, if at all possible.
• A paper and pen or a cell phone for taking notes
• Fitted shirt or light layer
• A mirror

While making measurements, wear a thin shirt. Don’t wear a thick sweater, or your numbers will come out too large.

How to Measure Yourself: Step by Step

Make measurements in this order. Maintain an upright posture with a good fit, but not tight.

1. Chest

Most jackets come with a chest measurement which is the most crucial size to get right.

• Keep your arms at your sides.
• Wrap around the thickest part of your chest, under your armpit and over your shoulder blades.
• Make sure the tape is parallel to the floor around your back.
• Breathe out and read the number.

For women, measure the fullest part of the bust, with the tape level across your back.

2. Shoulders

The size of the shoulder width will influence the fit of the jacket. This is the most difficult to correct and it's best to take the time to measure it carefully.

• Stand straight.
• Take the measurement across your upper back between the edges of the shoulder bones.
• Request someone to assist you. It is difficult to do on your own.

3. Sleeve Length

• Let the arm be in a natural, slightly flexed position.
• Take a measurement from the outside of your arm, at the edge of your shoulder bone, to your wrist bone.

4. Waist

• Find the narrowest part of your waist, usually just above your belly button.
• Wrap the tape around it but not tight.

For fitted jackets, such as women's moto styles and slim bikers, it's the waist that is most important.

5. Hips

• Tie the tape around the widest part of your hips.

This is important when choosing a jacket that will cover the hips such as a long coat, trench or belted style.

6. Back Length (Optional)

• Starting from the bottom of your neck, go down your spine to where you want the bottom of your jacket to be.

This will make it easier to choose the right length.

Write Everything Down

Write each number in inches. Measure twice to be sure. If there is a discrepancy between the two readings, take a third reading.

How to Measure a Jacket You Already Own

It's the greatest online shopping tip. If a jacket fits well and is your own, take measurements and refer to the store's size chart.

Place the jacket on a table, zipped or buttoned, and iron it out. Next, measure each of these 4 areas.

Chest (pit to pit). Measure straight across the jacket from the bottom of one armpit seam to the other. Then double that number to get the full chest.

Shoulders. Measure across the back from one shoulder seam to the other.

Sleeve length. Measure from the shoulder seam, down the outer edge of the sleeve, to the cuff.

Body length. Measure from the top of the back collar seam, straight down to the bottom hem.

Write these down. You now have a set of numbers that will be used for a fitting jacket. Check the size chart of the product, and choose the size that is the closest.

This is better than using the letters S, M, L.

Leather Jacket Size Chart: A General Guide

Every brand sizes a little differently, so always follow the store’s own size chart. Still, a general guide helps you know where to start.

Men’s Jackets: Approximate Body Chest to Size

Women’s Jackets: Approximate Bust to Size

These numbers are body - NOT jacket sizes. A jacket will always be bigger around than the body that it fits over, as it must have some room, or “ease.” When it comes to leather jackets, it is usually a few inches in the bust. Look on the product page to determine if there is a chart for body sizes or for jacket sizes.

Important Note

These tables are intended as a guide only. If there is a difference between a store's chart and the one you have, go with the store's chart. If there is any question, ask the seller to verify.

How to Read a Size Chart

Size charts can be misleading. Here is the procedure to read them.

Look at what the chart measures. Is it based on body measurements or jacket measurements? These are different. Body measurements are the size of your body. Jacket sizes refer to the size of the jacket.

Check the units. Make sure you’re reading inches, not centimeters.

Focus on shoulders and chest first. These are the hardest to change.

Check sleeve length and body length. These matter for the final look.

Check the fit label. Some pages say “slim fit,” “regular fit,” or “relaxed fit.” This tells you how much ease to expect.

Look for a note about layers. Some stores indicate if a sweater can be worn underneath the size.

If the chart does not provide real numbers, then ask the store before purchasing: S, M, L.

Understanding Fit Types

Long and short cuts can be very different sizes.

Slim Fit

Closer to the body with narrower chest and arms. It provides a contemporary and stylish appearance. It does not really allow for layers. When choosing a thick sweater, go up a size.

Regular Fit

A well-balanced cut that is slightly longer than the width of the forearm. It fits most body shapes and can be worn with a thin layer under it.

Relaxed Fit

Larger in the chest and trunk. It can be worn as a topper and it looks good when worn casually. Do not have too much space, as it will appear sloppy, but make sure the shoulders fit properly.

Oversized or Boxy Fit

A large, loose outline. There is a minor dip in the shoulders. With this style, it is for when it's supposed to be loose, but be careful not to let the sleeves get too long.

Take a look at the fit description on the product page, and compare it to the fit you like.

The Five-Point Fit Check

When you have a jacket, whether you are trying it on in a store or trying one that has been sent to you, go through these 5 tests.

1. Shoulders

Shoulder seam should be at the edge of the shoulder bone. If it goes down your arm, the jacket is too large. If it's snug or comes up to your neck, then it's too small. This is the most critical one.

2. Chest

You should be able to zip or button the jacket without pulling. Place arms across your chest. If it feels really tight on the back, go a size larger. A tight chest is okay. Not a restrictive one.

3. Sleeves

Sleeves should end near your wrist bone. Your arms shouldn't go far up your forearm when bent. A longer sleeve will help if you're wearing gloves.

4. Length

A classic biker/bomber is one that stops around the waist or slightly lower. The length of a long coat depends on the style but reaches to the knees or lower. Be sure the jacket goes around the belt line.

5. Movement

Hold your arms above your head. Extend your arms out as if pushing a car. Sit down. When putting on the jacket, if it pulls hard across the back or rides up, then it's likely too small, you might want to try a bigger size.

Sizing by Jacket Style

Each style is designed to fit different types of bodies. The following are signs to look out for.

Biker (Moto) Jackets

The bikers should be close. The shoulders should be true and the body should be tight yet not restricted. They can be a little too long when standing up—like when riding with your arms forward.

Bomber Jackets

Bombers are ribbed and ribbed hem. These are worn on the wrists and waist. It should be comfortable and slightly loose at the waist, hem blousing a little.

Racer and Café Jackets

These are thin and light. Fit is snug and there is little loose material. Be precise and do not make it too small – otherwise the clean lines reveal all the pulls.

Trench Coats and Long Coats

A long coat needs space in the shoulders and chest for layers. Take a measurement, and ensure that you can comfortably walk and sit.

Varsity Jackets

Varsity jackets are usually a bit roomy, with ribbed trim. The sleeves should not go below your wrist.

Suede Jackets

Suede is softer and more flexible than a number of smooth leathers and is not as stretchy. Please observe the size chart carefully.

Shearling or Fur-Lined Coats

The lining of liners provides bulk. Ensure unrestricted arm mobility, and take layers into account.

Sizing for Men

Men's jackets tend to be boxier and longer. A few tips:

• Begin with shoulders. Usually, the rest can be adjusted to fit if it fits.

• Check the chest. For broad chests or muscular sizes, you may have to go with a larger size than your shirt size indicates.

• Check the sleeve length. Men with long arms and tall men should be careful when matching sleeves.

• If you're planning on layering, leave a little space for a hoodie.

Browse men’s leather jackets and compare size charts across different styles.

Sizing for Women

Women’s jackets are often shorter and more fitted at the waist. A few tips:

• Check the bust, waist, and hips together. A jacket that fits your bust but pinches your waist will feel uncomfortable.

• Check the shoulders. Women’s shoulders are often narrower, so this measurement matters a lot.

• Look at the sleeve length. Sleeves that are too long bunch up.

• For belted or fitted styles, make sure the waist closes comfortably over a sweater.

Browse women’s leather jackets and compare charts for moto jackets, bombers, and coats.

Can I Wear Men’s or Women’s Cuts?

Yes. There are many people who enjoy their best fit in the other section. Men's cuts are more likely to be longer and boxier. Women's cuts are cut short and slim. Experiment with them and adhere to the instructions.

What If You’re Between Sizes?

This happens a lot. Here’s how to decide.

Think about the layers. If you plan to wear thick sweaters, choose the larger size.

Think about the style. For a slim, fitted style, size up if you don’t want it tight. For a relaxed style, you may prefer the smaller size.

Think about the leather. Soft lambskin stretches slightly. A snug fit may relax with wear. Thick cowhide is stiffer, so lean toward the larger size.

Prioritize the shoulders. If the shoulders fit in one size and not the other, choose the size that fits your shoulders. You can’t easily alter them.

Remember alterations. Sleeves and hems can be shortened by a leather specialist, but it’s hard to make a jacket larger. That’s another reason to size up when unsure.

Ask the store. Share your measurements and ask which size they recommend.

Sizing for Layers

How you plan to wear the jacket changes the size you need.

Light layers. A tee or thin shirt. Choose your normal size.

Medium layers. A sweater or hoodie. Add a little room in the chest and sleeves.

Heavy layers. A thick sweater or thermal. Size up, or choose a relaxed fit.

Try the jacket with the thickest layer you plan to wear. If it feels too tight, size up.

Does Leather Stretch?

Many people ask this. The honest answer is a little.

What it does. Leather relaxes with wear, especially in the elbows, back, and shoulders. A snug jacket may feel more comfortable after a few weeks.

What it doesn’t do. Leather doesn’t grow by a full size. A jacket that pinches your shoulders or restricts your arms won’t magically fit later.

Don’t try to force it. Some people try stretching leather with heat or water. These methods can damage it. If a jacket is too small, exchange it.

Online Sizing: How to Avoid the Biggest Mistakes

The convenience of purchasing a leather jacket online is the biggest risk – size. Here are some tips on how to make it smaller.

Mistake 1: Guessing From the Tag

Please do not use the letter as a standalone resource. Use the numbers on the size chart.

Mistake 2: Ignoring the Shoulders

The chest is the part that a lot of people look at. Shoulders matter more.

Mistake 3: Measuring Over Thick Clothes

Measure in a thin shirt. Layer it in, according to your layers.

Mistake 4: Mixing Up Body and Jacket Measurements

See if there is a body or jacket size chart.

Mistake 5: Forgetting the Fit Label

Slim and relaxed sizes are very different.

Mistake 6: Skipping Reviews

Many customer reviews will tell you if the jacket is too small or too big. To find comments from individuals who are similarly built to you.

Mistake 7: Not Checking the Return Policy

Fit can be unexpected even after careful measurement. Check the return policy prior to purchase.

Mistake 8: Ignoring Sleeve Length

It's important for tall individuals and individuals with long or short arms to check sleeve numbers carefully.

Using Custom Measurements

Some shops will allow you to provide your own measurement at time of purchase. This can help you get a fit that is better than standard sizes, particularly if you're in-between sizes or have a body type that doesn't fit well with standard measurements.

If you go this route:

• Measure carefully, twice.
• Be sure to wear a thin shirt, and use a soft tape measure.
• Help with shoulder and sleeves (ask a friend).
• Always read the store's directions for measuring the points.

If you want a jacket made to your exact numbers, take a look at the custom jackets page. As with any custom order, confirm the timeline and the policy on changes before you order.

How to Check Fit When the Jacket Arrives

Test your jacket as soon as you receive it.

1. Test out with the layer you're going to put on most often.
2. Look at five areas: shoulders, chest, sleeves, length and movement.
3. Check in front, side and back in the mirror.
4. Carry hands up, stretch out forward and sit down.
5. Make sure the collar fits properly. It should not be too wide or narrow.
6. Zip/ button all the way up and then all the way down.

Avoid wearing it outside, unless you can guarantee that you will put it away. When returning or exchanging the jacket, please consult the store's wear guidelines first.

Can a Leather Jacket Be Altered?

Some changes are possible, and some aren’t.

Easier to alter:

• Sleeve length (shortening)
• Hem length (shortening)
• Lining repairs

Harder or impossible:

• Shoulder width
• Making a jacket larger
• Major changes to the chest

Always use a leather specialist, not a regular tailor. For leather work, special tools are required. Don't sign a contract without getting an estimate.

Making changes to the size is an expense that you’ll rather want to avoid, so you’ll want to select the right size first.

Common Fit Problems and Fixes

Here are quick answers to common fit problems.

Sleeves are too long. Have a leather specialist shorten them, or fold the cuffs for a relaxed look if the style allows.

Shoulders too wide. This is hard to fix. Exchange for a smaller size.

Chest too tight. Exchange for a larger size. Leather won’t stretch enough.

Jacket rides up when you lift your arms. The back is too tight, or the cut is too short. Try a larger size or a longer style.

Collar gaps at the neck. The jacket may be too big. Check the shoulders.

Waist pinches. Try a larger size or a more relaxed cut.

Break-In Tips: What to Expect

New leather jacket can be stiff. That’s normal.

• Wear it often. Leather softens when it has to do with body heat and movement.
• Use it for short durations, at home.
• Apply a light coat of leather conditioner to ease the leather.
• Do not heat as it will crack leather.

After a couple of weeks, the jacket will feel more comfortable. Stiffness is normal. Limited motion, pinching or pain isn’t.

To learn how to take care of leather jackets, check out our leather jacket care guide.

8 Mistakes to Avoid When Sizing a Leather Jacket

1. Selection based only on tag size. Use real measurements.
2. Ignoring the shoulders. These are the most difficult to repair.
3. Larger than an extra thick sweater. Measure in a thin layer.
4. To purchase a vehicle that is too small and hoping that it will stretch out. Leather is a bit of a giveaway.
5. Failing to wear a fit label. Slim, regular and relaxed fit differently.
6. Forgetting layers. Try the jacket with your thickest layer.
7. Not reading reviews. They demonstrate a "real world fit.
8. Failure to follow the return policy. Read it first before paying.

Your Leather Jacket Sizing Checklist

If you're in the market to purchase, make sure to check out this checklist.

• You've made measurements of your chest, shoulders, and waist, and sleeves.
• You've already measured a jacket that you wear and enjoy.
• You have checked out the store size chart and have compared your numbers.
• You are aware if there are body size or jacket size.
• You've read the fit label (slim, regular or relaxed).
• You've considered the layers you'll need to wear.
• You have read the fit reviews from customers.
• You have taken the time to read the shipping and return policy.

New customers can order with confidence with all the boxes checked.

Leather Jacket Size Guide FAQ

How should a leather jacket fit?

A leather jacket should go snugly through the shoulders, snugly in the chest, and be just above the wrist bone. Arms should be able to swing freely in the jacket without it snagging in the back.

Should I size up or down in a leather jacket?

This is dependent upon your layers and fit. When you're in between sizes, go up one if you will be wearing thick sweaters, or if the leather is thick. Always focus on shoulders first.

How do I measure myself for a leather jacket?

Take a soft tape measure measurement of the chest, shoulders, sleeve length and waist, while wearing a thin shirt. Write each of them and compare them with the size chart in the store.

How do I measure a jacket I already own?

Lay it flat. Take measurements from pit to pit around the chest and multiply the measurement by 2. Then take the measurements for the shoulders, length of the sleeves, and the length of the body. Use the new size chart for the jacket to compare with these.

Does a leather jacket stretch?

A little. Leather will loosen over time, particularly the elbows and back. However, it does not get a full growth. In the event of a jacket being too tight, swap it out.

Should a leather jacket be tight?

The jacket should fit snugly at the start, but not be harmful or constricting. You should be able to lift your arms up and move around easily.

How much room should I leave for a sweater?

Try the jacket on with the thickest layer you plan to wear. If it gets tight, go up! If it's a light layer, a typical size will work.

Where should the shoulder seam sit?

Near the outside of your shoulder blade. If it dangles off your arm, the jacket size is too large. If it fits close to your neck, it's too small.

How long should leather jacket sleeves be?

They should be terminated close to your wrist bone. If wearing gloves, it is acceptable for it to be slightly longer, but not too long as that would be sloppy.

Can a leather jacket be altered?

The leather specialist can also shorten sleeves and hems. The size of shoulders and chest is very difficult to alter, so make sure to get a proper fit at first.

What if I’m between sizes?

Consider layers, fit and leather type. Focus on the shoulders, and guess the size if you're in doubt. You can also inquire about the size the store would suggest.

Is it safe to buy a leather jacket online?

Yes, and if you take your time to read the size chart, the reviews, and the return policy. If you have a store that has clear measurements, it is a good sign.

Do men and women size leather jackets differently?

Yes. Women's jackets tend to be shorter and sleeker at the waist. Men's jackets are longer and boxier. Always use the store size chart with the size you select.

Final Thoughts

You don't have to struggle to find the right size leather jacket since you know what to measure. Focus on shoulders and chest. Take the measurement of a jacket that you already love. Check the size chart of the store and compare to numbers. Consider your layers and don't forget about your return policy.

The right fitting leather jacket feels like it has been made for you. It follows you, looks terrific and improves with use.

Ready to find your size? Browse men’s leather jackets or women’s leather jackets, and use these steps to choose with confidence.

About the author: Emilia Clark is a content writer at Fancy Jackets. She writes about leather jacket styles, sizing, and care to help shoppers choose pieces they will wear for years.