The Golden Rule: Should You Size Up or Down in Leather?
The Sizing Paradox
You’ve looked at the chart. You’re exactly between a 40 (Medium) and a 42 (Large). This is the moment where most online shoppers freeze. At IndiFash, we have processed thousands of orders, and we’ve discovered a pattern: Regret usually follows the larger size. This is the definitive strategy for choosing your side when you’re stuck in the middle.
The Case for Sizing DOWN (90% of cases)
In the world of premium full-grain leather, "Too Small" is often a temporary state, while "Too Large" is a permanent failure.
- Molding Potential: As discussed in our material science guides, organic hide expands. If a jacket is slightly tight, it will stretch. If it's slightly too big, it will just slouch and hang poorly.
- The 'Sharp' Aesthetic: Leather is a high-impact material. It looks best when it is precise. A jacket that is even 5% too large loses its "Tailored" look and starts looking like a costume.
- Warmth and Air Gap: A snug jacket traps a thin layer of air near your skin, which your body heat warms up. A loose jacket allows cold air to circulate inside, defeating the purpose of the leather shield.
The Case for Sizing UP (The Exceptions)
There are only three reasons to choose the larger size:
- Layering Needs: If you live in a climate where you *must* wear a heavy wool sweater or a hoodie under your leather, you need the extra 2 inches of circumference.
- The 'Oversized' Trend: If you are specifically chasing the 2026 "Streetwear" look (dropped shoulders, boxy torso), then size up.
- Heavy Hide (Horsehide/Steer): These materials don't stretch. If they are tight on Day 1, they will be tight on Day 1000. For heavy hides, prioritize comfort.
The Decision Matrix
| Material | If in doubt... | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Lambskin / Sheepskin | Size DOWN | Relatively high stretch rate. |
| Cowhide / Buffalo | Size DOWN | Molds to shape perfectly. |
| Horsehide / Suede | Size UP | Low to zero stretch potential. |
Conclusion
The "Perfect" leather jacket fit is one that feels like it was painted on your body. It should be a little difficult to zip for the first week. If you can embrace that temporary struggle, you will own a jacket that fits you better than anything else in your closet. At IndiFash, we specialize in those "Painted-on" silhouettes.
Don't flip a coin. Use our IndiFash Fit Finder.
