Kevin Wing

Vaktare M.G. Pilot Racer Jacket Review

Handmade in Los Angeles

Buttery-soft, supple leather is the stand-out feature of the Pilot Racer Jacket from Vaktare M.G. Made from 1.1–1.3mm American full-grain cowhide, the Pilot Racer Jacket is available waxed or unwaxed, and with or without armor. Interior pockets allow personalizing degrees of armor protection. Waxed is best for changing weather conditions, while unwaxed is best for warmer climates. The Pilot Racer Jacket that we tested while riding the Honda Monkey was waxed and without armor, providing exceptionally lithe comfort with high style.

Vaktare M.G. Pilot Racer Jacket in Cognac with shearling collar.Vaktare M.G.

The Vaktare M.G. Pilot Racer Jacket is handmade in Los Angeles. Its exterior features include two breast pockets and two waist pockets, each with zippered closures. The lining is made of stretch cotton for breathability and ease of movement, and includes an interior pocket that’s trimmed in leather. The sleeves are properly longish for coverage to the wrists while riding, and feature zippered cuffs. The Pilot Racer Jacket is also available with a shearling collar, which gives it a unique style among motorcycle jackets, and a great look for everyday anywhere.

The Pilot Racer Jacket highly impressed with its irresistibly supple leather that quickly conforms to the wearer, and the individual style and high craftsmanship of its manufacture. After one day of use the jacket had mated with its wearer. This jacket brought many inquires from those who saw it in person, proving also to be that rare jacket that you just want to go for a ride as an excuse to wear it. This jacket leans more to style and comfort than a sports jacket that is engineered to maximize protection, fulfilling the aesthetic needs for whom classic leather is enough.

Supple leather with individual style and a high level of craftsmanship impressed with a quick break-in time.Kevin Wing

The Pilot Racer Jacket retails for $849, and is available directly from Vaktare M.G. It comes in Cognac or Black, with or without the shearling collar. Armor is an additional cost. Vaktare M.G. is a boutique company that is all about the enthusiast customer, so the Pilot Racer Jacket, as well as its other styles, can be custom made and sized to order. To learn more: vaktaremg.com.