For generations, the leather motorcycle jacket has been one of the most recognizable pieces of a motor officer’s uniform. But a true police motorcycle jacket is more than a traditional leather jacket with a badge attached. It is professional duty apparel designed around the particular needs, appearance and traditions of law enforcement motorcycle units.
From heavyweight cowhide construction to department-specific styling, removable liners and uniform details, there are significant differences between a purpose-built police motorcycle jacket and an ordinary civilian motorcycle jacket.
At Uniform Tactical Supply, we carry a growing selection of Taylor’s Leatherwear police and motorcycle jackets, including styles designed for or inspired by departments across the United States.
Here’s what to consider when choosing a police motorcycle leather jacket.
What Makes a Police Motorcycle Jacket Different?
Police motorcycle jackets have to serve two roles simultaneously.
They are functional outerwear for officers who may spend hours riding in changing weather conditions, but they are also part of a professional uniform. Appearance, fit and department specifications can therefore be just as important as warmth and durability.
Depending upon the model, features may include:
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Heavy-duty leather construction
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Traditional police or motor-officer styling
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Badge eyelets or badge tabs
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Epaulets
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Department-specific pocket configurations
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Side adjustments
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Heavy-duty front closures
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Removable or optional liners
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Specialized uniform detailing
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Regular, short and long sizing options
For an agency purchasing jackets for a motorcycle unit, matching the correct specifications can be especially important.
Why Cowhide Is So Common in Police Motorcycle Jackets
Cowhide remains one of the traditional choices for police motorcycle outerwear for good reason.
A quality cowhide jacket offers an excellent combination of durability, wind resistance, abrasion resistance and classic appearance. Properly maintained, a well-made leather duty jacket can provide years of service while developing the distinctive character associated with quality leather.
Leather also provides the structured appearance many departments want from a uniform jacket.
The exact leather, construction and weight can vary between jacket models, so buyers should review the specifications of the individual jacket rather than assuming all leather police jackets are constructed identically.
Department-Specific Police Motorcycle Jackets
One of the interesting characteristics of the police leather jacket market is the number of designs associated with individual departments and agencies.
Taylor’s Leatherwear produces numerous styles reflecting established police uniform traditions around the country. These include jackets associated with departments or agencies in cities and states such as NYPD, Pittsburgh, Phoenix, Indianapolis, Memphis, Nashville, Georgia and others.
These aren't simply cosmetic differences. Depending upon the model, differences can include pocket placement, collar design, hardware, leather color, zipper configuration, uniform detailing and overall cut.
For agencies replacing existing jackets, identifying the correct model can therefore be especially important.
Traditional Police Jackets vs. Civilian Versions
Some classic police motorcycle jacket designs are also available in civilian versions.
This can be an excellent option for riders who appreciate the durability and traditional appearance of a police-style leather jacket but don't require department-specific uniform features.
Civilian versions can also appeal to collectors, motorcycle enthusiasts and customers looking for a traditional American leather motorcycle jacket with a professional rather than fashion-oriented design.
Always check the individual product specifications to determine whether a particular model is intended as a uniform jacket, civilian jacket or both.
Getting the Right Fit
Fit is particularly important with a leather motorcycle jacket.
Unlike many lightweight jackets, leather doesn't simply drape over the body. The cut of the jacket affects comfort, appearance and mobility.
When selecting a size, consider what will normally be worn underneath the jacket. An officer wearing body armor, uniform layers or a liner may require different room than someone wearing the jacket over a lightweight shirt.
Sleeve length is also particularly important for motorcycle use because riding position can change how the sleeves sit on the arms.
Some Taylor’s Leatherwear jackets are available in regular, short and long sizes. Availability of short and long sizes can vary, however, and some sizes may require special ordering.
When sizing is uncertain, it's worth taking the time to verify measurements before ordering.
Liners and Cold-Weather Use
A removable liner can substantially increase the versatility of a leather duty jacket.
Without the liner, a jacket may be appropriate for relatively mild conditions. Adding an insulated liner can extend its usefulness into colder weather.
This can be particularly valuable for motorcycle officers, who experience considerably more wind exposure than someone simply walking outdoors.
Liner availability and configuration vary by model, so check the specifications for the individual jacket.
Choosing a Jacket for Department or Agency Purchases
Agency buyers should begin with the department's uniform specifications whenever possible.
Before ordering, verify details such as:
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Approved manufacturer and model
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Leather type and color
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Badge configuration
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Required hardware
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Pocket configuration
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Liner requirements
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Approved uniform features
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Size requirements
Even jackets that appear nearly identical in photographs can have important differences.
Uniform Tactical Supply can also assist departments and purchasing personnel with identifying appropriate Taylor’s Leatherwear models and obtaining information for larger or specialized orders.
Why Taylor’s Leatherwear?
Taylor’s Leatherwear has a long history of producing professional leather outerwear for law enforcement, public safety and other uniformed professionals.
Rather than approaching police jackets primarily as fashion garments, Taylor’s offers purpose-built designs reflecting established uniform specifications and traditional law-enforcement styling.
That specialization is one reason Taylor’s jackets continue to be used by departments and individual officers seeking traditional leather duty outerwear.
Uniform Tactical Supply carries an expanding selection of Taylor’s Leatherwear products, including police motorcycle jackets, duty jackets and civilian versions of several classic designs.
Shop Taylor’s Leatherwear Police Motorcycle Jackets
Whether you're replacing an existing duty jacket, outfitting a motorcycle unit or simply looking for a traditional American leather motorcycle jacket, choosing the correct model and fit matters.
Browse the Taylor’s Leatherwear collection at Uniform Tactical Supply to compare available police, motorcycle and civilian leather jackets.
For department purchases, special sizing or questions about a particular Taylor’s Leatherwear model, contact Uniform Tactical Supply for assistance.