Can Leather Jackets Get Wet? A Guide to Water Resistance and Care
Leather jackets are the best piece of fashion you can own, and leather is one of the best materials for making clothing. However, an age-old question still remains: can leather jackets get wet? Can I wear a leather jacket on rainy days? Well, yes, leather jackets can definitely get wet, as moderate amounts of splashes and drops cannot harm leather.
However, despite the water-resistant properties of leather, you should always avoid soaking your leather jacket. Water can cause permanent damage by removing oils from the leather, leading it to become brittle and eventually crack.
Table of Contents
Can a leather jacket protect you from water?
Yes, wearing a leather jacket on a rainy day can protect you from water, but if you get heavily soaked in heavy rain, some water may seep inside. The amount of water pressure it can resist depends on the type of leather, but almost all leather types can easily bear harsh weather conditions if maintained properly. A normal drizzle will not affect tough materials like leather. Resistance to water also depends on the type of leather; for instance, deer leather and cowhide leather are known to resist water well. In addition, the tanning and finishing procedures play a significant role. Chrome-tanned leather is good for water resistance, and pigmented or wax-treated leather types are also great for wet conditions due to their resilience to the elements.
Can you wear a motorcycle jacket in the rain?
If you are planning to go on a motorcycle trip during the rainy season and want to wear your leather jacket, the answer is yes, you can wear a leather jacket while riding in the rain. Biker jackets are more than just a fashion statement; they protect you from the elements as well as from accidents and injuries. Therefore, wearing leather clothing is very important when riding a motorcycle. Motorcycle jackets are usually made from cowhide, which is known for its water resistance and toughness. You can also use deerskin leather in biker jackets, as it is even better than cowhide in resisting water.
Furthermore, you should always keep your biker jacket in good condition by using leather care products. You can also enhance the water-resisting capabilities of your leather jacket by applying leather protectors and waterproofing sprays.
What happens when a leather jacket gets wet?
In this section, I am going to answer what happens to the leather if they have not used any protection and they get wet. The water can make leather brittle and stiff, after some time of usage you will notice that the leather suddenly starts changing its original form:
1.| Become stiff
2.| Become dry and brittle
3.| Lose natural sheen
4.| Visible water stains
They are all irreversible damages that water can cause to your priced possession
How to protect your leather jacket from water
1.| Use good leather conditioner
Taking good care of and periodically applying leather conditioner not only protects it from the elements but also enhances the overall appearance of leather goods. Leather is prone to becoming brittle when it gets wet, but applying a dedicated leather conditioner can help restore its oils and make it look new again.
2.| Silicon sprays
Various silicone sprays are also available on the market, and they can effectively protect your leather jacket from rainwater as they contain silicone polymers. However, the downside is that they can make the leather dry and sticky, so we usually do not recommend them.
3.| Acrylic spray
Acrylic sprays are a good alternative to silicone-based sprays, which can cause damage to leather. Acrylic sprays keep leather smooth and breathable. They are widely available in stores and online marketplaces.
Additional tips
1.| When using waterproofing sprays on leather, don’t just spray all over the leather jacket. Make sure to spray in between the small folds and crevices for proper protection, then cover the larger surfaces with the spray.
2.| Avoid overusing waterproofing products, as they can make leather sticky and ruin its appearance.
3.| If your leather jacket gets wet, dry it immediately in the air and avoid using any heat to speed up the process.
4.| Before applying any waterproofing product, clean your leather jacket, as dirt and grime can interfere with the effectiveness of waterproofing products.
5.| Test in an inconspicuous area. Always test any waterproofing product on a small, hidden area of the leather jacket first, such as an inside seam, to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
6.| You may need to reapply periodically, especially after heavy rain or cleaning. Read the manufacturer’s instructions given on the product label carefully.
7.| Stay away from waterproofing products containing harsh chemicals, as they can damage the leather.
Conclusion
In conclusion, If you ask me if real leather has any alternative, I would say that real leather holds a special charm that cannot be replicated by any artificial material. Leather’s natural essence and the uniqueness of each skin give it an irreplaceable character. While some cheaper options like bonded leather and faux leather are available, can they replace real leather? In my view, nothing can replace the authenticity of natural leather. A good leather item can last for multiple decades or even a lifetime if taken care of properly.
If you have any doubts, feel free to ask in the comment section, and for more information on leather products, you can check our other articles or you can contact us. LeatherBlues is known as one of the best stores for real leather products. Explore our amazing collection of leather garments and services.
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