Opinions Eastman ELMC California Highway Leather Jacket

[jr30]

Hi folks,

A store - not exactly nearby, but still within reach - has the Eastman ELMC Horsehide California Highway in black and in various sizes for trying on. I’m not familiar with Eastman. Does anyone have experience with their leather jackets? Are they on the same level as Aero or Thedi....others?



I’d really appreciate if someone could share a photo and their firsthand experience, especially regarding the pattern and the stiffness of the horsehide. These jackets are priced around $1,200–1,300. Are they worth the money?


Thanks and best regards,
Roman

 

[Fonzie]

I have 4 Eastman’s at the moment (one I will be selling soon, a black ELMC Californian s. 40), and also own Thedi and Aeros.
In my opinion the quality is comparable in all three brands, but my favourites are the ELMC, I really like the leather they use and the construction is flawless.

Edit: if you’re interested in one like the photo you posted let me know.

 

[El Marro]

ELMC are first rate jackets, I have their horsehide G-1 and both the hide and the construction of the jacket are very nice.
I think you are mixing up the name of two models, the Californian and the Highway Star. Probably a good idea to go to the store and find out what jacket you are talking about and how you like the fit.

 

[Guppy]

Go for it, they're great jackets.

 

[Madhouse27]

I’ve had two Eastmans. An ELMC Roadstar and an Ostman Luftwaffe both in size 44. The Roadstar is one my all time favorites! Great pattern, a little more of a matte finish to the horsehide that looks and feels broken-in pretty early in the game. Great quality and exceptional workmanship. Roomy shoulder, pretty long-armed and a small waist. I’d really check the measurements on this one.

The Luftwaffe jacket was equally cool, great hide and nicely put together. I’ve struggled to find and aviator (ish) style that looks good on me and I was really hoping it would work. I feel that most of them make me look like Spongebob SquarePants. The pattern was better than many that I’ve tried but it still seemed kind of wide and short-armed for my build.. I‘ve seen pictures on here where this jacket looked great on others, usually a stockier built dude.

 

[Fonzie]

I’ve struggled to find and aviator (ish) style that looks good on me and I was really hoping it would work. I feel that most of them make me look like Spongebob SquarePants. The pattern was better than many that I’ve tried but it still seemed kind of wide and short-armed for my build.. I‘ve seen pictures on here where this jacket looked great on others, usually a stockier built dude.

You should try the ELMC Windward, I have one and the fit is great, and I’m a slim built not stocky at all.

 

[Bennarion]

They make great time-tested jackets

 

[jr30]

Gentlemen,

Now you’ve really piqued my interest! I’ll definitely take a closer look at this model.
Fortunately, I have the chance to try it on in a real store - you know how it is: fit, length, and comfort are always subjective and can’t really be judged from a spec/measurement sheet, at least not unless you’re already familiar with the model or the leather used.

Thanks for your comments!
Roman

 

[Fonzie]

Gentlemen,

Now you’ve really piqued my interest! I’ll definitely take a closer look at this model.
Fortunately, I have the chance to try it on in a real store - you know how it is: fit, length, and comfort are always subjective and can’t really be judged from a spec/measurement sheet, at least not unless you’re already familiar with the model or the leather used.

Thanks for your comments!
Roman

What is your normal jacket size?

 

[Fonzie]

This one in size 40 will be going to the TFL classifieds sometime this week, when I get around to it.

 

[jr30]

What is your normal jacket size?

42, sometimes 44 - up to the pattern. Gained a little bit in the past.
And I keep in mind, you might sell yours 40

 

[ProteinNerd]

I have the ELMC Californian in each colour (don't ask lol) their Windward & a J-100 as well. Clearly I like them. I've actually sold most of my Aeros and all of my Thedi's but kept the Eastmans and "may" get some more.

The quality is at least as good as Aero and Thedi, I like the styling of their jackets but its the leather for me. Its a thinner leather than most of Aeros offerings (even the Vincenza) and the 3 or so Thedi's (buffalo & horse) I've owned.

I just prefer a slightly lighter thinner jacket these days (it suits the Australian climate better imo). Not to think its light mall leather, I've had people freak out how heavy it is. Its just not Aero FQHH heavy.