Aero Plainsman: Final Leather Selection and Style Question

[rebiv]

I'm getting close to ordering my first Aero leather jacket, a Plainsman, and would appreciate some feedback from those with firsthand experience.

I'm currently working with Holly at Aero on the design and measurements, and hope to submit my order next week. I've spent quite a bit of time researching the different leathers and looking through photos on the forum, which has been incredibly helpful.

Leather selection
As context, I live in Oregon, US with mild winters with frequent rain. I'm leaning toward dark seal Vicenza horsehide, but would appreciate any final input before committing.

Ideally, something supple and comfortable, with enough structure to hold its shape, but without the stiffness, weight or extended break-in of heavier horsehides.

What I'm looking for:
- A mid-weight leather that's supple and comfortable, with enough structure to hold its shape, but without the stiffness, weight or extended break-in of heavier horsehides.
- Good natural grain and character that will patina over time
- A natural leather finish that isn't overly waxy, oily, or heavily coated
- Reasonable resistance to occasional rain. I'm in the US Pacific Northwest, so some exposure to wet weather is inevitable.
- A rich, dark brown with visible brown tones and character, rather than something so dark it looks almost black.

Vicenza seems to check most of these boxes, but I'm curious whether anyone would recommend considering Jerky horsehide, Pinnacle, or another leather based on these preferences.

Seal vs. Dark Seal Vicenza
I've seen some beautiful examples of both. I prefer a darker brown, but I don't want to lose the warmth and variation in the leather. Some Dark Seal photos look almost black, while others show exactly the rich chocolate brown I'm after.

Does anyone happen to have side-by-side photos of Seal and Dark Seal Vicenza, ideally in similar lighting? I'd also be interested in how Dark Seal looks after some wear and whether it develops more visible brown tones.

Front Hem
I really like the Plainsman's clean design and longer 1930s silhouette. However, I've noticed that the front center hem hangs differently in various owner photos. In some examples the lower front corners seem to project outward or form more pronounced points. Have you noticed the front panels to flare outward? Is there a significant difference between the front and back lengths?

Sizing Advice
For those who own a Plainsman, looking back at your own jacket, would you change anything about the sizing? In particular, would you err slightly longer or shorter in the body or sleeves? Does the jacket's fit or length change noticeably as the leather breaks in and develops creases?

(I'm 6'2", 175lbs, 40” chest, with relatively long, thin arms. I typically get Medium-Long or Large-Slim sizes)

I appreciate any thoughts or photos. I'm excited to get the order finalized and want to make sure I get the details right the first time.

Thanks!

 

[zebedee]

I have just received a Mariner in dark seal Vicenza. It is slightly a lighter weight and less bulky than FQHH and it is definitely more pliable early on. An earlier Mariner was a darker brown (which I preferred, but not in any extreme way); current batch is a more matte chocalate colour. I own a Plainsman in black Jerky; it is more pliable then Vicenza but not much in it. You've probably made the right choice. Definitely go with Aero's suggestions. Things like edge flaring are down to how you wear it - I'd get Universal zippers and D-rings if you can, as I prefer them to the standard side adjusters. Aero's hides handle rain with no problem. The Plainsman is a really good design - I was thinking that, if I ever get another jacket (which I don't need), I'd go with another Plainsman in dark seal Vicenza.