Impending Veg-tanned jacket - anyone else own one?

[bobjones]

I am getting closer to pulling the trigger on a jacket that will be my first veg-tanned piece after decades of chrome-tanned ones.

My understanding is that veg-tanned are generally more durable - except when it comes to rain/getting wet. Given that NYC has rain fairly often, and that I already have a sponge masquerading as a jacket for which I have to check the forecast before wearing (375 roughout), I just want to know whether I will need to avoid wet weather at all costs. My belts are veg-tanned, but since they aren't exposed as much I am less concerned about them.

I saw a reddit thread where someone wearing the jacket I am getting wore it during a light rain, and the jacket showed spots they couldn't get rid of until they applied a creme. That does not provide me with much comfort as I don't want another museum piece that looks great in my living room but can't be worn outside too often. Am I being overly concerned here?

 

[TartuWolf]

"My understanding is that veg-tanned are generally more durable" how so? And in what way do you want it to be more "durable"? Because unless you're going into battle with a jacket or tend to get into knife/broken-bottle fights often then you don't need much durability from a fancy jacket if it's not for riding. Veg tan or chrome tan you have more chance of the seams failing than the leather failing over time.

 

[jerryoldiee]

bobjones, no need to avoid rain completely, but expect some spotting. Veg-tanned leather marks more easily than chrome-tanned, especially if lightly finished. A light drizzle is usually fine. If it gets wet, blot it, let it dry naturally (no heaters), and a light conditioner often evens out the marks. How it holds up depends on the finish, so ask the maker if it’s waxed or sealed.

 

[bobjones]

"My understanding is that veg-tanned are generally more durable" how so? And in what way do you want it to be more "durable"? Because unless you're going into battle with a jacket or tend to get into knife/broken-bottle fights often then you don't need much durability from a fancy jacket if it's not for riding. Veg tan or chrome tan you have more chance of the seams failing than the leather failing over time.

Vegetable tanned is generally considered more durable in terms of its fiber structure, but absorbs water more easily.

I did some internet research and this is a good typical write-up on it...

What Is Vegetable-Tanned Leather: A Complete Guide

Discover what vegetable-tanned leather is, how it’s made, and why luxury brands love it. Learn how to identify, care for, and choose the best leather goods.

songmontofficial.com

 

[steve u]

The jacket in my avatar is veg-tanned and I wear it most the time here in Iowa.
It gets wet , but I don't think it's soaked completely through..I just let it dry.