Five Star Leather Jackets

[DaveProc]

Seal Brown cowhide Werber A-2

 

[JDarwin52]

The new capeskin A1 is getting some high praise on VLJ thread linked above. Mine’s hopefully in the works, standard sizing with minor tweaks.. requested extra grainy! Though from the looks of it, that might not have been necessary.
After a few purchases I agree that many of their leathers are a bit dull, matte, lacking depth (My seal goat, seal B6 and Whiskey HH halfbelt being notable exceptions)… But when I first saw these pics I thought they were from guys showing off their high-end jackets for comparison. From VLJ:

 

[Thready]

New to the forum, started my quest to get my first leather jacket but I'm not ready to drop major cash on something I may or may not enjoy. To that end, after much internet searching (reddit and this forum) it seems like fivestar is a good budget entry option, or so it seems to be. I recognize a lot of feedback is to get a used jacket but I have a preference for something new if possible.

To that end, considering getting the cafe racer on 5* (https://www.fivestarleather.us/products/cafe-racer-jacket) in one of the off the rack sizes. This way I can potentially return the jacket if it is a terrible match. My measurements are below, It would seem like a large would fit best for a slim fit, but the one part that gives me pause is the sleeve lengths. a 27" sleeve seems massively long. Are off the rack sizes for 5* generally not recommended? It seems like most advice is geared around getting a custom made product.

chest 43"
waist 35.5"
shoulder 17.75"
sleeve 25"
Neck 16"
length: prefer on the shorter side 25-26" most likely
height 5'9"

 

[El Marro]

Welcome to the lounge @Thready!
Yes, if you are 5’9” then 27“ sleeves are almost certainly too long. For reference I am 6’1” and I generally like a sleeve around 26“.
And if what you have gathered from reading this thread is that five star is a good budget entry option then you have only read about half the posts. Many people have found it to be a complete and total waste of time and money.

 

[Thready]

That's fair, there are 440+ pages to filter through lol! A lot of information baked into these threads.

 

[Will Zach]

That's fair, there are 440+ pages to filter through lol! A lot of information baked into these threads.

Yeah, you almost want AI to do a summary....

5* is hit or miss (mostly miss, with possible exception of their flight jackets repros).

Any custom order from 5* and you are in the price territory of a used excellent jacket like Johnson Leathers. Check ebay for them if you csn consider used. Also, if you buy used Johnson Leathers or Aero and it does not work, you can resell for usually a minimal loss or a wash. If you buy a custom 5* and it does not work, you get a minimum 50% haircut right off tbe bat if you try to sell.

 

[jeepTj98]

New to the forum, started my quest to get my first leather jacket but I'm not ready to drop major cash on something I may or may not enjoy. To that end, after much internet searching (reddit and this forum) it seems like fivestar is a good budget entry option, or so it seems to be. I recognize a lot of feedback is to get a used jacket but I have a preference for something new if possible.

To that end, considering getting the cafe racer on 5* (https://www.fivestarleather.us/products/cafe-racer-jacket) in one of the off the rack sizes. This way I can potentially return the jacket if it is a terrible match. My measurements are below, It would seem like a large would fit best for a slim fit, but the one part that gives me pause is the sleeve lengths. a 27" sleeve seems massively long. Are off the rack sizes for 5* generally not recommended? It seems like most advice is geared around getting a custom made product.

chest 43"
waist 35.5"
shoulder 17.75"
sleeve 25"
Neck 16"
length: prefer on the shorter side 25-26" most likely
height 5'9"

Check eBay for a used fox creek cafe racer jacket.. excellent quality and fit. Made in USA and they use a full grain cowhide that feels great the first time you put it on… I’ve seen them for $200-$300 in great used condition.

 

[TartuWolf]

@Thready Sleeves way too long yeah. Overall I'd mostly skip 5* unless you want an existing jacket copied or some really unique design recreated from your request. There are much better options out there for cafe racers. Research and buy used. For example a Vanson model B is hard to beat. Check out Japan Proxies.

 

[jchance]

New to the forum, started my quest to get my first leather jacket but I'm not ready to drop major cash on something I may or may not enjoy. To that end, after much internet searching (reddit and this forum) it seems like fivestar is a good budget entry option, or so it seems to be. I recognize a lot of feedback is to get a used jacket but I have a preference for something new if possible.

To that end, considering getting the cafe racer on 5* (https://www.fivestarleather.us/products/cafe-racer-jacket) in one of the off the rack sizes. This way I can potentially return the jacket if it is a terrible match. My measurements are below, It would seem like a large would fit best for a slim fit, but the one part that gives me pause is the sleeve lengths. a 27" sleeve seems massively long. Are off the rack sizes for 5* generally not recommended? It seems like most advice is geared around getting a custom made product.

chest 43"
waist 35.5"
shoulder 17.75"
sleeve 25"
Neck 16"
length: prefer on the shorter side 25-26" most likely
height 5'9"

I also suggest skipping the fivestar, and instead getting a used Vanson or Cal

 

[MrProper]

New to the forum, started my quest to get my first leather jacket but I'm not ready to drop major cash on something I may or may not enjoy. To that end, after much internet searching (reddit and this forum) it seems like fivestar is a good budget entry option, or so it seems to be. I recognize a lot of feedback is to get a used jacket but I have a preference for something new if possible.

To that end, considering getting the cafe racer on 5* (https://www.fivestarleather.us/products/cafe-racer-jacket) in one of the off the rack sizes. This way I can potentially return the jacket if it is a terrible match. My measurements are below, It would seem like a large would fit best for a slim fit, but the one part that gives me pause is the sleeve lengths. a 27" sleeve seems massively long. Are off the rack sizes for 5* generally not recommended? It seems like most advice is geared around getting a custom made product.

chest 43"
waist 35.5"
shoulder 17.75"
sleeve 25"
Neck 16"
length: prefer on the shorter side 25-26" most likely
height 5'9"

The jacket you linked was mine, I specified it and it was made to my measurements. Mine was a premium goat, with an explicitly ordered even thickness, which only partially worked. At the time, I think it cost around EUR 400 with all the trimmings
I very much doubt that the proportions of the other sizes are correct. Also, you can't trust the price. You don't have good leather and xxs won't fit you. The price goes up with each size. There are also high shipping costs and possibly customs duties and taxes (depending on where you live). Sending it back to Pakistan is also expensive. If you don't like the jacket after all (and there's a good chance you won't), then you've definitely wasted money. If a return is accepted at all. There is usually a 50% discount on another jacket.
Choose wisely
Better save a bit more and have a look at rugged West or Goldtop or something like that.

 

[El Marro]

The jacket you linked was mine, I specified it and it was made to my measurements. Mine was a premium goat, with an explicitly ordered even thickness, which only partially worked. At the time, I think it cost around EUR 400 with all the trimmings
I very much doubt that the proportions of the other sizes are correct. Also, you can't trust the price. You don't have good leather and xxs won't fit you. The price goes up with each size. There are also high shipping costs and possibly customs duties and taxes (depending on where you live). Sending it back to Pakistan is also expensive. If you don't like the jacket after all (and there's a good chance you won't), then you've definitely wasted money. If a return is accepted at all. There is usually a 50% discount on another jacket.
Choose wisely
Better save a bit more and have a look at rugged West or Goldtop or something like that.

The man has spoken!
Caveat emptor.

 

[Thready]

A lot of great feedback, thanks everyone. I'll stay clear for now and try to evaluate other options. Thanks for all the input.

 

[bn1966]

5* did a nice clone Trucker for me but the two customs really didn’t work out and I wouldn’t have a third go. Back to saving longer and Eastmans in my case. Good advice given above by very experienced folk.

 

[CBI]

Arrived moments ago. Still has packing creases. totally happy with this one and imagine that......its a leather jacket that is actually comfortable to wear!!!! Super light weight hide. An "A" for Five Star!! thanks so much Shawn

 

[Edward]

The jacket you linked was mine, I specified it and it was made to my measurements. Mine was a premium goat, with an explicitly ordered even thickness, which only partially worked. At the time, I think it cost around EUR 400 with all the trimmings
I very much doubt that the proportions of the other sizes are correct. Also, you can't trust the price. You don't have good leather and xxs won't fit you. The price goes up with each size. There are also high shipping costs and possibly customs duties and taxes (depending on where you live). Sending it back to Pakistan is also expensive. If you don't like the jacket after all (and there's a good chance you won't), then you've definitely wasted money. If a return is accepted at all. There is usually a 50% discount on another jacket.
Choose wisely
Better save a bit more and have a look at rugged West or Goldtop or something like that.

GoldTop are an excellent choice for anyone wanting a British-style motorcycle jacket on a budget. If you're looking for a jacket with a bit of vintage flair to ride in especially (given their entire range now comes armour-ready), they're a no-brainer. I love my high end jackets and have my favourite brands (Aero really work for me), but the price of entry in this hobby has now risen sufficiently faster than my disposable income such that I have to be more selective these days about what I want from the higher end. If it's something like an A2 that I'm gonig to want to patch up, I'm much quicker to "settle" for a decent alternative as opposed to a statement-piece, civilian design.

 

[JDarwin52]

So… My capeskin A1 (the new leather option) arrived a couple weeks ago. Basically stock with slight adjustments for sleeve length and 1/2” off the bottom hem.

I breathlessly advertised my excitement and willingness to hand over $320 on this forum. I don’t know if typed out “TAKE MY MONEY”, but felt it. Exclamation points were certainly used freely.

The leather and construction was great to my eye. Capeskin wonderfully grainy, and ready to age beautifully.

HOWEVER, somehow my written request for a 43.5” hem was ignored or misinterpreted. It was made at 47”. And that’s being generous. This thing fits like a sack.

I started correspondence immediately and their replies have been evasive and non-committal. Last one seemed to suggest that I “simply taper it.” Huh?

After 6 purchases that went well, it seems like I finally got my mouthful of sour grapes. There’s no excuse for their error not to be corrected, or at least acknowledged, immediately. Errors happen, but for me to still be in limbo with this un-wearable jacket is silly and frustrating.

I’ll be sure to follow up if they resolve this, but here’s my line in the sand. No more money will be spent on this jacket for shipping back and forth, or alterations. It’s on them.

And one more thing, if you do order something, REALLY look at their measurement photos and don’t be afraid to call them out if they look a little off (I.E. “iffy” tape-holding practices). I had good luck previously with brief glances and a “looks great!” If I had looked closer this time, this would have likely been another glowing review.

 

[Peacoat]

So… My capeskin A1 (the new leather option) arrived a couple weeks ago. Basically stock with slight adjustments for sleeve length and 1/2” off the bottom hem.

I breathlessly advertised my excitement and willingness to hand over $320 on this forum. I don’t know if typed out “TAKE MY MONEY”, but felt it. Exclamation points were certainly used freely.

The leather and construction was great to my eye. Capeskin wonderfully grainy, and ready to age beautifully.

HOWEVER, somehow my written request for a 43.5” hem was ignored or misinterpreted. It was made at 47”. And that’s being generous. This thing fits like a sack.

I started correspondence immediately and their replies have been evasive and non-committal. Last one seemed to suggest that I “simply taper it.” Huh?

After 6 purchases that went well, it seems like I finally got my mouthful of sour grapes. There’s no excuse for their error not to be corrected, or at least acknowledged, immediately. Errors happen, but for me to still be in limbo with this un-wearable jacket is silly and frustrating.

I’ll be sure to follow up if they resolve this, but here’s my line in the sand. No more money will be spent on this jacket for shipping back and forth, or alterations. It’s on them.

And one more thing, if you do order something, REALLY look at their measurement photos and don’t be afraid to call them out if they look a little off (I.E. “iffy” tape-holding practices). I had good luck previously with brief glances and a “looks great!” If I had looked closer this time, this would have likely been another glowing review.

If it could be worse, I would be hard pressed to say how.

 

[Camel24hrs]

So… My capeskin A1 (the new leather option) arrived a couple weeks ago. Basically stock with slight adjustments for sleeve length and 1/2” off the bottom hem.

I breathlessly advertised my excitement and willingness to hand over $320 on this forum. I don’t know if typed out “TAKE MY MONEY”, but felt it. Exclamation points were certainly used freely.

The leather and construction was great to my eye. Capeskin wonderfully grainy, and ready to age beautifully.

HOWEVER, somehow my written request for a 43.5” hem was ignored or misinterpreted. It was made at 47”. And that’s being generous. This thing fits like a sack.

I started correspondence immediately and their replies have been evasive and non-committal. Last one seemed to suggest that I “simply taper it.” Huh?

After 6 purchases that went well, it seems like I finally got my mouthful of sour grapes. There’s no excuse for their error not to be corrected, or at least acknowledged, immediately. Errors happen, but for me to still be in limbo with this un-wearable jacket is silly and frustrating.

I’ll be sure to follow up if they resolve this, but here’s my line in the sand. No more money will be spent on this jacket for shipping back and forth, or alterations. It’s on them.

And one more thing, if you do order something, REALLY look at their measurement photos and don’t be afraid to call them out if they look a little off (I.E. “iffy” tape-holding practices). I had good luck previously with brief glances and a “looks great!” If I had looked closer this time, this would have likely been another glowing review.

I had ordered a Monarch A2 and the chest size was that of a 46 when I ordered a size 44. Also ordered a RW 27752 in size 46 and asked for the shoulders to be increased from 19.9 inch to 20.2 inch. What I got was shoulders of 20.6 which is size 48 shoulders.
Threw a fit and they gave me a discount on another jacket. I told them I would carefully examine the shoulder measurement pic and reject it if the shoulders were not 20.2 inches. They got that one right.

Five star does allow you to make alterations to a jacket. However from my experience it’s very hit and miss if you do so. And it’s just not worth taking the chance on an altered jacket you cannot return.

And while they do make a reasonable A2 repo at a very reasonable price, they miss out on a lot of little details. Which when buying a repo one expects every detail to be exact.

And the leather will never be mistaken with leather on the high end makers.

But if one is on a budget and needs to customize a pattern then they are a viable option. Just might take you several tries to get exactly what you are wanting.

 

[bn1966]

I’ll stick with Eastmans for my A-1’s and A-2’s.

 

[stray]

Got my first custom five star in the seal brown steerhide a few days ago. Asked to use one of the cafe racer styles as a base pattern and provided specific measurements and directions for everything. Overall very satisfied for the price.

A few minor sizing issues that I'd want to fix on a second jacket (like taking it in on the waist and hem slightly) and some small QC issues like some stray stitch holes and creasing on the chest and back from how it was packed (hopefully it will relax over time), but other than that I think they did a good job. Based on the experiences of others in this thread I think I did fairly well for my first attempt.

Thoughts on the fit?