Question on A-2 Fit

[South]

Can someone point me to some pictures of the proper fit of an A-2's sleeve length?

I have a new Schott 184SM and the sleeve length seems exactly perfect, but I'm wondering if the sleeves will shorten as the leather breaks in and creases around the elbows? I know it's not an actual A-2, but a similar pattern. It's their naked cowhide, so I don't know how much, if any shrinkage/shortening I should expect on the sleeves?

I'm thinking I may should get the long version and have the sleeves be an inch too long and expect that they will shorten to the right size over the next year?

Thanks for any help and advice.

 

[johnnyjohnny]

as you say, the 184sm is truly not an a-2, or g-1, but some motorcycle jacket attempt to combine the styles...and for not being militarily authentic, i'd say nicely too

from everything i've heard and experienced with leather, it is supposed to stretch, if anything, with wear, unless you throw it in the washing machine like a number of people around here do with their jackets

i'm guessing, at the least, it will stay the size it is now...for me the issue of getting a long is always associated with how long it is at the waist...i think the long version is 28" (for their new jackets), about 2-3" longer in the length...you might wish to consider that

nice jacket, if looking for a moto style vs. mil jacket...enjoy it

 

[South]

Thanks for the info. I'm happy with the style.

My concern is, I've read comments about the sleeves on a leather jacket becoming a tad shorter over time, because of creases that develop in the elbow. Granted, I think most of the info had to do with horse hide, so I don't know if it will apply to cowhide.

Thanks again.

 

[Peacoat]

As the leather "wrinkles," or develops creases, the arm length will shorten slightly. Makes no difference if it is horse, cow or goat. Probably won't be noticeable, unless the arms are marginal or too short to begin with, then it will be very noticeable.

 

[HoosierDaddy]

I agree with Peacoat that the sleeves will shorten slightly with wear.
HD

 

[Tokyo Jones]

My understanding is that horsehide will indeed form creases over time which will cause the sleeves to ride up slightly. Cowhide should exhibit less of this tendency, however. It and goatskin have a greater tendency to drape, which minimizes the degree to which the sleeves will drape.

You will find no better pictures anywhere of A-2s than on John Chapman's website, Goodwear Leather. Look here for many photos of his various reproductions, several of which he models himself, giving an excellent reference for A-2 fit.

 

[South]

Thanks for all the great info. Tokyo Jones - those pictures were a great reference.

Thanks again.