shrinking an A-2 to size

[ButteMT61]

...I will admit that the zipper tape does get distorted, so that is one drawback to the procedure.

The concept may seem ridiculous, but in practice it is not. I will agree that doing the procedure changes the character of the jacket and the leather, but to some, the change is an improvement. I would not do this to an investment jacket or one I was going to sell down the road. I wouldn't do it to a jacket with patches either. But if you are going to wear it, and you know you want to keep it, I can say I have done it and am happier with the fit.

Certainly most A2's in service saw much more than any of us typically toss at them...
That said, I'd rather get a jacket that fits me correctly, than spend a bundle and shrink it. It's just not what leather was made to do. Sure, it can get wet. Let it dry off slowly, with very little heat and it generally comes back OK. But I could never get some fantastic jacket from the top makers and wash/dry it. Call me crazy...but don't confuse that with not wearing it out in the weather - within reason.

 

[PADDY]

Gents - IMHO...if the jacket doesn't fit, then just change it for one that does. Simple.

 

[aswatland]

Gents - IMHO...if the jacket doesn't fit, then just change it for one that does. Simple.

Quite so. This is precisely what we have been telling the guy who started the thread!

 

[PADDY]

Thanks to all our great members in here, there's enough advice been given now to make a reasonably balanced and informed decision on the risks versus benefits of shrinking the leather, or accepting that you may be best to get a new A-2 that fits your 'new figure' more suitably.

We can only offer suggestions, advice and personal experiences, but at the end of the day...

THE FINAL CHOICE IS YOURS.

Good Luck with the choice that suits 'you' best.