How do you treat your hard-to-replace (vintage, expensive/high-end, limited edition, etc.) jackets?

[AeroFan_07]

silicone free waterproof spray

Back when Wilson's Leather shops were still a common site, I used their store-brand spray on jackets.

Maybe this would be worth a try:
https://www.danner.com/waterproofin...AQStWUqcKJZ3ap-KFXvHQF_H7LEALoMszbLbGSYubf3xa

 

[JasonY]

If someone is collecting jackets with no intention of wearing them, do they still buy them in their own size?

Most insightful response I've seen yet

 

[JasonY]

My take is that as with other items of lasting value (old houses, tools, whatever...) is that they were made to be used but not abused.

 

[Tom71]

I only buy jackets that I have the intention of wearing.

My rarest and most expensive vintage jackets are generally worn less often, but I do still wear them consistently. It also depends on condition as well.

I have a couple of "beater" jackets that are either more durable or in rougher condition and are less rare/desirable that I wear to work most or the time. Still, I wear all my jackets several times per year. In fairness, I don't have anything expensive enough to completely baby anyway.

This is my approach as well.

I don’t buy to collect. I buy to wear. If a jacket loses its appeal over time, I move it along.

Exactly like @dudewuttheheck, it does make a difference if a jacket is particularly delicate or otherwise precious to me or not. Some jackets get only worn if conditions are sound enough; others qualify as “only jackets” on holidays or else where I have no control over the elements.

I once got a new jacket that I liked so much in its brand-spanking-newness that I voiced I’d rather never break it in or expose to other elements than the air. I wasn’t quite serious, but the backlash was still pretty intense.
I don’t accept that there’s a general rule how to treat leather jackets, but personally, if I feel something is too precious to be worn in “normal conditions”, it’s not for me as it replaces the joy of “having” with a sense of worry.