The biker jacket has been a symbol of counterculture cool pretty much ever since Irving Schott designed his iconic Perfecto moto in 1928. And the fact that I don’t yet have one in my wardrobe feels like a grave omission. Every autumn for the past three years, I’ve meant to buy a leather motorcycle jacket, but quickly gave up because the styles I had my eye on were out of my budget (it’s not atypical to see them priced over $500, even at the mall, and many brands’ more classic designs never go on sale).
Similar to well-cut blue jeans and a luxe trench coat, the leather moto is a true wardrobe essential that will only go out of style when humankind advances to a point at which we eschew clothing in favor of lab-grown bioskin. But until then, we've done the legwork to help you score a fabulous leather jacket for under $350.
Why scour vintage shops for a distressed moto when this one comes pre-washed and with just the right amount of wear built in?
Topshop Washed Leather Biker Jacket, $320, available at Topshop.
When you’re looking for that super-classic, timeless biker with silver hardware that will always be in fashion.
Silence + Noise It’s Real Leather Moto Jacket, $349 $249, available at Urban Outfitters.
A simple, sleek take on the biker jacket — with just enough details to keep things interesting. We can’t believe the price of this River Island style!
River Island Leather Biker Jacket, $162, available at ASOS.
Slightly cropped with prominent stitching details, a jacket that will be sure to add street cred to any outfit.
Zara Leather Jacket with Zips, $189, available at Zara.
Ever-so-slightly distressed, this moto has plenty of pockets, zippers, and silver-tone hardware, and the abbreviated cut would pair perfectly with a pretty floral dress or your favorite high-waisted trousers.
ASOS Cropped Leather Biker Jacket in Washed Black, $242, available at ASOS.
A tailored option with fitted darts and dark hardware that blends in with the leather for a look that’s more sophisticated and less punk.
Levi’s Leather Moto Jacket, $298, available at Levi’s.
Canadian label Soia & Kyo is known for its luxe outerwear, and a sumptuous, espresso-colored lambskin topper is a true steal at this price!
Soia & Kyo Belted Leather Moto Jacket, $269.97, available at Nordstrom Rack.
Made from an extra-thick, embossed leather, this fashionable jacket will age particularly well since the textured surface hides scratches and stains.
H&M Leather Biker Jacket, $349, available at H&M.
This minimalist, dark-brown jacket is perfect for weekend layering. The textured stitching adds just a bit of detail, but the lack of hardware keeps things simple.
Lucky Brand City Leather Jacket, $281.40 (sale), available at Lucky Brand.
This smooth leather jacket has a nice oversized, boxy fit, and functional pockets that actually zip up.
ASOS Premium Longline Leather Biker Jacket, $275, available at ASOS.
Each jacket, made from vintage and deadstock leather, is one-of-a-kind. There are a lot more seams in the leather as a result, but we love this eco-friendly option!
PeleCheCoco Leather Biker Jacket, $275, available at Urban Outfitters.
An extra-long zipper at the cuff and the pop of red leather under the collar adds just enough contrast to make this style stand out.
Nasty Gal Guns of Brixton Leather Moto Jacket, $198, available at Nasty Gal.
There is nothing subtle about this embroidered moto. Perfect for when you’re ready to make a punk-inspired statement.
Zara Embroidered Leather Effect Bomber Jacket, $99, available at Zara.
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