THE FASHIONISTA BIBLE · JAPONISTA UNIVERSE
Lewis Leathers: The London Rider Jacket
Lewis Leathers was founded in London in 1892 and became the English name in motorcycle clothing. Its jackets, among them the Lightning, the Cyclone and the Dominator, were worn by riders, then by the café-racer and rock-and-roll generations, and now sit at the centre of any serious rider-jacket collection.
Japanese collectors have followed the label closely for years, and the house has worked with Comme des Garçons on jackets that carry both names. Horsehide and cowhide age differently, so wear, creasing, lining and zip condition are described individually on each piece.
Sizing follows a British cut that runs closer than many American jackets, so measure shoulder, chest and sleeve against a jacket you already own rather than relying on the label size alone.
The Hunting Salon™
If you are looking for a particular Lewis Leathers model, collaboration or size, the Hunting Salon™ can assist discreetly with search, verification and shipping.
Curator’s note: Read The Rider Jacket for how Lewis Leathers, Saint Laurent, Celine, Dior Homme and Loewe each reinterpret the form, and browse Designer Leather Jackets. Continue with the Fashionista Bible, the directory of Japanese fashion designers and the collector guides.
Frequently asked questions
When was Lewis Leathers founded?
In London, in 1892.
How is condition described?
Every piece carries a Japanese condition rank from N to C, explained in Japanese Condition Ranks Explained.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes. Duties vary by destination; see Import Duties on Luxury Goods from Japan.
Index terms: lewis leathers · lewis leathers lightning · lewis leathers cyclone · lewis leathers dominator · british rider jacket · cafe racer jacket · comme des garcons lewis leathers · horsehide rider jacket
