Why Should I Buy A Vanson?

[Coriu]

Only a handful of Vanson's strictly motorcycle styles have branding. Like the jacket you've posted. Literally 90% of their jackets don't have anything of the sort.

Just to be clear, I was talking about used Vanson's, Monitor. Go to ebay now and search for "Vanson" and order by "newly listed." A substantial percentage of the jackets have branding. Granted, a number of them are clearly meant to be racing style. It's seems like there are a number of the Manx style for sale(maybe that is not typical), and those have branding.

Over the past 6 months, I've been looking pretty intensely on ebay for a used Vanson. Finding one in a large size, not from Japan, without branding has been like finding a needle in a haystack.

 

[Schambach]

The Manx & the MK2 and the other strictly motorcycle styles aren't something you'd want for casual use at all. They fit nicely on a bike, but are weird and uncomfortable for casual wear, even the ones without armor. Sadly, these are the cheapest, and most plentiful on the used market I've found.

What size are you Coriu? I'm around a 44 in Vanson, and agree that it's a tough size to find used.

 

[El Marro]

Just to be clear, I was talking about used Vanson's, Monitor. Go to ebay now and search for "Vanson" and order by "newly listed." A substantial percentage of the jackets have branding. Granted, a number of them are clearly meant to be racing style. It's seems like there are a number of the Manx style for sale(maybe that is not typical), and those have branding.

Over the past 6 months, I've been looking pretty intensely on ebay for a used Vanson. Finding one in a large size, not from Japan, without branding has been like finding a needle in a haystack.

So here are two of Vanson’s best offerings in size 46. Jackets like this pop up all the time on eBay. If you need a larger size then I agree it is probably tougher to find.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/164824474103

https://www.ebay.com/itm/114710889804

 

[Monitor]

Just to be clear, I was talking about used Vanson's, Monitor. Go to ebay now and search for "Vanson" and order by "newly listed." A substantial percentage of the jackets have branding. Granted, a number of them are clearly meant to be racing style. It's seems like there are a number of the Manx style for sale(maybe that is not typical), and those have branding.

Over the past 6 months, I've been looking pretty intensely on ebay for a used Vanson. Finding one in a large size, not from Japan, without branding has been like finding a needle in a haystack.

You are correct in that they do seem to appear prevalent but that's because these jackets don't sell nearly as well as the regular/unbranded styles, which are usually sold quickly. I'm not sure why, though, but people don't buy these jackets used - Well, actually, it's probably because serious riders who decide to invest into a proper suit, rather go for a brand new one in their own exact size.

 

[Coriu]

The Manx & the MK2 and the other strictly motorcycle styles aren't something you'd want for casual use at all. They fit nicely on a bike, but are weird and uncomfortable for casual wear, even the ones without armor. Sadly, these are the cheapest, and most plentiful on the used market I've found.

What size are you Coriu? I'm around a 44 in Vanson, and agree that it's a tough size to find used.

Thank you. I usually wear a 52. It's funny because Vanson does offer sizes for larger guys, they just don't seem to show up on ebay.

 

[Schambach]

Thank you. I usually wear a 52. It's funny because Vanson does offer sizes for larger guys, they just don't seem to show up on ebay.

Ah, that makes sense. I do come across a lot of larger jackets, but they are usually the moto specific models. Personally, I got tired of looking and just went to Vanson and bought a new jacket that I'm totally happy with, despite the much maligned cw leather.

 

[Carlos840]

Thank you. I usually wear a 52. It's funny because Vanson does offer sizes for larger guys, they just don't seem to show up on ebay.

I have seen two size 52 jackets in close to 10 years of doing this...
It's not that these jackets don't show up often on eBay, its the fact that very few people are a size 52 to start with that's the problem...

 

[Coriu]

You are correct in that they do seem to appear prevalent but that's because these jackets don't sell nearly as well as the regular/unbranded styles, which are usually sold quickly. I'm not sure why, though, but people don't buy these jackets used - Well, actually, it's probably because serious riders who decide to invest into a proper suit, rather go for a brand new one in their own exact size.

Yes, at Vanson's price points, buying new could make sense, versus, say, Langlitz. Based upon what I've read in this thread, I can see someone who has a Vanson that fits like their skin holding onto it forever and not replacing it...thus, making them harder to find.

 

[Coriu]

Ah, that makes sense. I do come across a lot of larger jackets, but they are usually the moto specific models. Personally, I got tired of looking and just went to Vanson and bought a new jacket that I'm totally happy with, despite the much maligned cw leather.

I was considering that, too, but this thread has me thinking I need to wait it out until an older one comes along. I am very happy with my Branded's from a practical standpoint. My justification for buying a Vanson would be the crazy good leather I've read about and possibly a pattern. It sounds like buying a new Vanson today may not be much of an upgrade compared to a BG(from a hide standpoint)...unlike in years past.

 

[Coriu]

I have seen two size 52 jackets in close to 10 years of doing this...
It's not that these jackets don't show up often on eBay, its the fact that very few people are a size 52 to start with that's the problem...

I'm painfully aware, Carlos. It was really cool to be built like the hulk when younger, but not so much now. I've got a bunch that fit me reasonably well...Schotts, Aero's(their size 48 fits me), Branded, Hein Gericke, Natel, etc. For some reason, at least on ebay, unbranded, large Vansons have eluded me.

There are tons of used, high-end dress shirts in big sizes on ebay. There are lots of big guys out there(over 40% of American males weigh more than 200 pounds), but they probably gave up trying to find a leather jacket because they couldn't find one and/or couldn't afford custom. Certain industries have a hang-up about making bigger sizes. I get it with leather jackets, but I have fits finding higher-end, relaxed fit t-shirts. Everyone wears t-shirts, so I can't see the argument for inadequate demand to justify making larger sizes.

 

[Schambach]

I was considering that, too, but this thread has me thinking I need to wait it out until an older one comes along. I am very happy with my Branded's from a practical standpoint. My justification for buying a Vanson would be the crazy good leather I've read about and possibly a pattern. It sounds like buying a new Vanson today may not be much of an upgrade compared to a BG(from a hide standpoint)...unlike in years past.

I see. My motivation to go with a new Vanson was a bit different. I basically wanted a bomb proof jacket that i could wear everywhere, on an off the bike, and beat the snot out of and not worry about it. The cw Enfield I bought fits that bill perfectly. I'd looked around a while on the used market, and didn't have luck, and wanted to visit the factory in Fall River anyway...

Have you tried giving them a call to see what they might have in stock in your size? The website is not great, as we all know. If you're close enough, a trip there is totally worth it, it's an amazing place. But VA to MA is a bit of a schlep.

 

[AbbaDatDeHat]

Thank you. I usually wear a 52. It's funny because Vanson does offer sizes for larger guys, they just don't seem to show up on ebay.

I think if you had started this thread leading in with your size 52 and weight 240 lb your concerns of availability, be it Vanson or any other brand, would have been addressed more succinctly. After 8 pages of discussion of Vanson styles, leathers and other sundries, which have been interesting, all be it relevant to the real issue of finding a used or new jacket in such an uncommon size and no doubt having encountered this in other outerwear, jackets are no different.
Thus being so, if it were me and i wanted a Vanson jacket of whatever style, leather, etc etc, in my lifetime...i’d have them build one.
I hope you get one, love to see it.
B

 

[Coriu]

I think if you had started this thread leading in with your size 52 and weight 240 lb your concerns of availability, be it Vanson or any other brand, would have been addressed more succinctly. After 8 pages of discussion of Vanson styles, leathers and other sundries, which have been interesting, all be it relevant to the real issue of finding a used or new jacket in such an uncommon size and no doubt having encountered this in other outerwear, jackets are no different.
Thus being so, if it were me and i wanted a Vanson jacket of whatever style, leather, etc etc, in my lifetime...i’d have them build one.
I hope you get one, love to see it.
B

Thanks. I didn't just start the thread for me, although the title may have sounded that way. LOL The posters who contributed have created a gold mine of information here for future members. I would love to see a collection of threads like this..."Why Should I Buy a ______" It could be the basis for a book. A lot of the information is likely contained within the annals of TFL, but fragmented.

For me, it's about the hunt. The thread has convinced me it will be worth the wait. It has nothing to do with money. I don't care if it takes me 5 years. Call me weird. Wish I could be normal like everyone else on here.

 

[AbbaDatDeHat]

Thanks. I didn't just start the thread for me, although the title may have sounded that way. LOL The posters who contributed have created a gold mine of information here for future members. I would love to see a collection of threads like this..."Why Should I Buy a ______" It could be the basis for a book. A lot of the information is likely contained within the annals of TFL, but fragmented.

For me, it's about the hunt. The thread has convinced me it will be worth the wait. It has nothing to do with money. I don't care if it takes me 5 years. Call me weird. Wish I could be normal like everyone else on here.

Ok...in that case if i see anything i’ll let you know.
And yes this place is “the” gold mine of information from consummate collectors, experts and very kind, sharing, lovers of leather jackets old and new.
It just seemed like this tread began seeking an answer, was answered, expanded then the punch line came.

The hunt within the lounge is also part of the fun all be it frustrating, much as your jacket hunt and the hunt of this thread.
B

 

[AbbaDatDeHat]

4 more reasons to keep up the hunt.
An old badass E.
Not black...kinda dark brown.
B

 

[roadking04]

^^^

WOW! Stunning. That is why I am so upset with Vanson. Just look at that thing!!! Then look at that thing double H posted. A keeper for life Abba!

 

[Mysteryo]

I’m not familiar with Vanson, and I must admit that a lot of their jacket have a design at the back that I absolutely dislike.
Also I’ve always wondered why the edge of their sleeve/wrist was not stitched...
Any how, every one I know into leather jackets seems to absolutely love their products.
It make me curious an coincidentally,
I might pull the trigger for a vintage model F

 

[AbbaDatDeHat]

^^^

WOW! Stunning. That is why I am so upset with Vanson. Just look at that thing!!! Then look at that thing double H posted. A keeper for life Abba!

Thanks for the kind words Roadking it really is a nice old piece. Black label, teardrop pulls and big T main zip stop says 70’s to me. A beast at 9+lbs but pliable as a fine felt hat. Best smelling jacket i have. Unfortunately it’s not a FL fit so i don’t post it around here but can wear it around my area.
Bowen

 

[AeroFan_07]

^^ That is exactly how my Mark II Sportrider fit as well. And the smell was simply devine. I sometimes wondered if it was a type of Connelly leather, as that was the only leather I have ever sampled that smelled close to it. Truley an heirloom piece.

 

[Guppy]

I’m not familiar with Vanson, and I must admit that a lot of their jacket have a design at the back that I absolutely dislike.
Also I’ve always wondered why the edge of their sleeve/wrist was not stitched...
Any how, every one I know into leather jackets seems to absolutely love their products.
It make me curious an coincidentally,
I might pull the trigger for a vintage model F

About the sleeve cuffs, they design them that way deliberately. The Mike (the owner) explains the construction and design of the Model A jacket, and mentions the design of the cuff, right around 4:10:

This one is fun too: