Five Star Leather 1930s Half Belt – Horsehide Quality & Sizing Advice Needed

[xontros85]

Hi everyone,


I’m considering ordering a custom Five Star Leather 1930s Half Belt in Seal Brown Horsehide and would really appreciate some feedback, especially from current or previous owners of this model.


I’m particularly interested in the leather quality, overall craftsmanship, how the jacket ages over time, and, most importantly, getting the sizing right.


My measurements and sizing references:

• Height: 189 cm (6’2.5”)
• Weight: 85 kg (187 lbs)
• Chest: 42”
• I currently wear a size 48 in both the AVI Leather A-2 and M-422A.

Regarding fit:

• My AVI A-2 in size 48 is on the snug side.
• My AVI M-422A in size 48 fits perfectly, perhaps slightly on the roomy/oversized side.

I’ve been looking at Five Star’s size chart, and based on the measurements, **L seems to be the closest option. However, I’m not sure whether their sizing runs differently or how much room I should allow for layering.


A few questions:

1. How would you rate the quality of the 1930s Half Belt, particularly in Horsehide?
2. How does Five Star’s Horsehide compare in terms of thickness, grain, feel and aging to more established makers?
3. How consistent is their craftsmanship?
4. For someone with my measurements, would **L be a reasonable starting point, or should I consider a different size?
5. Any advice on the ideal chest, shoulder and sleeve measurements for this particular pattern?

I’d especially appreciate feedback from anyone who owns a 1930s Half Belt in Horsehide, along with fit pictures if possible.


I’m not necessarily expecting Aero or other high-end makers’ level of finishing at this price point, but I’d like to know whether the jacket is genuinely good value and whether the fit can be dialled in properly with custom measurements.

Ps I’ll mostly war it with T-shirts/ shirts and maybe a lightweight sweatshirt

Thanks in advance!

 

[Jiaward]

Have you went through this thread?

https://www.thefedoralounge.com/threads/five-star-leather-jackets.101762/

 

[floater]

Have you went through this thread?

https://www.thefedoralounge.com/threads/five-star-leather-jackets.101762/

Of course he didn’t, otherwise he’d know that:

A) 5* isn’t known for their hh
B) the more customizations you do on a 5* jacket, the less likely you’ll be satisfied with the final product

And if he’d done a bit further research he’d realize that he’s better served going with stock sizes on the good chinese brands, if he wants new, or pre-owned from established brands if he’s open to it.

Lastly he’d know by now that, for an existing popular model with many options of brands and fits, unless he’s an exceptionally different body type, he’s better off going otr rather than custom.

That said, if he absolutely wants to go custom and wants hh, depending on budget I would suggest going direct with real simons or johnson’s leather.