Simmons Bilt Classic Biker jacket
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Hello!
I am considering ordering the 'Classic Biker' jacket from Simmons Bilt and I'd like to hear about people's experiences with SB — especially those who have that specific model. I know Debs is helpful and great, but I'm also looking for a second opinion so to speak.
Should I expect a true-to-size jacket or should I size up? I'd be nice if I could wear a t-shirt and a hoodie under the jacket (my chest measurement is approx. 97 cm with a hoodie on; shoulders around 46.5 cm). I prefer a normal to slim fit — tight fit is not good but neither is loose fit.
Which leather would you recommend? My preference is for smooth-grade, fine-grain leather, such as on Schott 618. The leather should also become pliable and soft over time (so HH is probably out of the question then?).
Thank you very much!
Link for the jacket: http://www.simmonsbilt.com/bike.html
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I found it to be true to size. Could easily wear a tshirt and an IH shirt under it but in no way could I fit an IH hoodie underneath.
I have the Clayton veg tan horsehide and although it is heavy as fuck to start with, it certainly gets more comfortable over time.
Debs is great and she will provide advice on fit etc and will also send you some leather samples etc. She was incredibly insightful and accommodating when I asked loads of annoying questions!
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It sounds like you have very specific criteria about sizing and material, so you should give that information to Debs and see what her advice is. After all, that's what she does for a living. And as Cutlasshound mentioned, she's willing to send leather samples for you to see and feel, which gives you a better idea of what to expect. Also worth remembering is that since Simmonsbilt jackets aren't off the rack, there is some flexibility in the "standard" sizing. If you need an extra inch in the length, for example, that can be accommodated. And the possibility of full custom is always there, too, if you're inclined to do so…
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If your hyper ocd ( i sorta am, sounds like you might be) you’ll notice that a jacket that fits great with a t-shirt is too tight with a hoodie and one that fits perfect with a hoodie is too loose with a t. Can’t have it both ways unless you can have two. Having said that, @Max Power might pull it off. It probably helps if you are a bigger guy. Wiggle room seems proportionally less of a big deal.
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@Bfd70 you're right, it's hard to get a jacket that fits trim with just a tee and still fits a hoodie underneath. It somehow works on my FH but that one feels a bit loose without a hoodie and my FCL is a better fit with just a tee.
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@thomas01:
I recently got a Detroit Jacket which is similar to the Biker Jacket.
Choosed the Blattwerk Horse Hide Leather.
I find it is fine over a T and over a T and an IH Flannel. But i tend to wear my Jackets a bit looser.I could post some comparsion Pics when I`m Back Home from work.
How's the Blattwerk HH in your opinion? Pics would be nice, yeah!
Thanks for the answers so far. I'll write to Debs at some point and see what can be done.
I hope it'll work with out with SB since Schott's measurements (at least on 618) are quite ridiculous in my experience (roomy waist and chest area with really narrow shoulders) and I hope SB will provide me with a better jacket.
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Blattwerk is lovely….
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That does look like nice leather from here.
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^what he said.
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Blattwerk is lovely….
I have two of these Giles posted in different sizes. Lovely describes it well but maybe an understatement. The Blattwerk leather is incredible. The hand is probably what I imagine unicorn hide to feel like.
@thomas01 that jacket looks marvelous and so do you wearing it. I should think this will be a cherished part of your wardrobe for years to come. Very well done sir.
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@thomas01:
So here it is
Thanks for the pictures. Looks fantastic, and most importantly, not too shiny.
Blattwerk adds £150 to the price, though. Not sure if it's worth it, but it might as well be. I guess I'll have to order some leather samples from SB and decide for myself.
