Is this Aero worth rescuing?

[Chevalier]

I spotted this Aero in the wild recently. From afar, it looks like a gem with nice patina. The fit on me is good.

Closer up, I spotted some worrisome areas. Does this look like structural damage to the horsehide?

 

[The Lost Cowboy]

I see so much leather cracking like that on used Aeros online. Far more than any other maker. It makes me wonder if the CXL is particularly prone to it or if it's just that people only get rid of their Aeros after they start cracking.

To answer your question: I personally wouldn't buy that.

 

[AeroFan_07]

That one needs it's sleeves replaced.

I would pass on it.

 

[photo2u]

How much is it? I have seen worse. If the leather is cracked, there is not much it can be done to repair the leather damage. I have seen several things that actually work. You can use a nice goat skin and put a patch around the inner side (tan area) of the jacket to help with the cracking. I would use tallow to help with the lubrication of the old leather fabric on the jacket. For the price, it is hard to beat a Cal or Al's leather.

 

[Guppy]

Pass on it.

 

[Chevalier]

Thanks for the advice everyone! It seems like the consensus is to let it go The price of $200 seemed low considering it is horsehide, but it also sounds like it could be expensive and time consuming to fix. From the feel, it may have gotten wet at some point and then been dried improperly. Too bad, as it is a nice jacket.