Schott 618 or Vanson C2 - Looking for advise

[GauchoGermanico]

Dear jacket enthusiasts,
I'm looking for some advice and recommendations on which jacket I should choose. I'll share my thoughts and background so you have some context.
I've always liked leather jackets, but I didn't get around to buying one until three years ago, when I bought one here in Argentina, where I live. It's a lightweight leather biker jacket that has surprisingly held up well despite taking quite a beating. I don't ride motorcycles, but I fell in love with the versatility of the design. However, the fit isn't quite what I'm looking for.

Now that I'm about to turn 30, I want to treat myself to a really good leather jacket that will last me for decades, even with heavy use. A jacket I can build memories with and, hopefully, pass down to my family when I'm gone (fingers crossed that's still many decades away).

I've done some research and narrowed it down to Schott and Vanson. Of course, since they're both based in the US, I'll have to import the jacket, which I'm willing to do. Unfortunately, although Argentina produces a lot of leather, I'm somewhat wary of the quality of its jacket manufacturing, especially considering that I want something that will stand up to just about anything I throw at it for many years. Since I'll be importing it, returning or exchanging the jacket won't really be an option.

Therefore, something that looks cool, is highly resistant to the elements and ages well. An inmortal Jacket (I know nothing is inmortal but you know what I mean).

I'm currently torn between the Schott 618 (Steer or Horse) and the Vanson C2. Both have the look and durability I'm after. However, they differ in materials, fit, price, and brand history.

The 618HH is made from steerhide treatet to sustain water and the elements, which I understand is a great material (correct me if I'm wrong, or if the horsehide version would actually last longer). Schott has a reputation for quality, and its jackets seem to age beautifully. The brand's long history is also a nice bonus. The downside is the price:$1,020 or $1,125 for HH.
The C2 is made from premium steerhide, has larger pockets (which sounds appealing), and is considerably cheaper at $799. However, I've come across comments raising concerns about the quality and consistency of Vanson's current leather. Since I'm looking for something to last and age well, a quality problem will lead to lost money and time.

I think I'm leaning more toward the 618, but the price difference is significant enough to make me hesitate. Also, with the importation fees, both prices increse and also does the difference between them.

In case it's helpful for your feedback, here are my measurements:

• Height: 1.87 m (approximately 6'2")
• Chest: 111 cm (43.7")
• Across shoulders: 51 cm (20")
• Sleeve length: 69 cm (27")
• Weight: 85 kg (187 lbs)
• Build: Slim, with a somewhat V-shaped torso

According to Schott's sizing guide, I could be either a size 44 or 46, depending on the fit.
I'd really appreciate hearing your thoughts, especially from anyone who owns either jacket or has experience with both brands. Thanks in advance!

Ps: I know there are similar discussion on the forum but they are from 1 year ago and quality of the brands may have changed since.

 

[JackBroChill]

I am not a rider but it seems to me that people consider Vanson's much more as actual jackets meant for riding whereas Schott are more of a fashion focused item.

Schott is great, if sort of polarizing for some here on TFL but Vanson's fit the body just about better than any jacket I've ever worn. Seems like they're beloved here for a reason.

As far as the leather I think the current Vanson comp weight is good stuff (though not as great as the vintage CW) but it was more like around the pandemic where they were having supply issues. But I can't say for certain.

 

[Bfd70]

I have owned both. They look similar in that they are both asymetrical motorcycle jackets however they are different in their patterning. For instance Vanson has bigger biceps. Schott typically has narrower shoulders. Step 1 is to measure a jacket that fits you well and compare it the measurements for schott and vanson. See if either is a better match for you.
Here are measurements off the schott site and a stockist of a vanson model (which may be different than the standard c2).

 

[Highwayman64]

So I had the same question and I ended up with the Schott 618hh in a 44. I’m 5’8” 180 and the arms are pretty slim for me. I may have been able to wear a 42 but I tried it and I really had an issue with mobility and I wouldn’t be able to fit long sleeve shirts underneath. The body of it is a bit larger than I would like but I had to size it to fit my chest. The waist is a bite wide for me and I wish it was an inch shorter. The overall fit is ok if a little bit more relaxed in the body. I’m not sure how long I’ll keep it but I’ll wear it this season. It’s still. It fully broken in.

 

[GauchoGermanico]

I am not a rider but it seems to me that people consider Vanson's much more as actual jackets meant for riding whereas Schott are more of a fashion focused item.

Schott is great, if sort of polarizing for some here on TFL but Vanson's fit the body just about better than any jacket I've ever worn. Seems like they're beloved here for a reason.

As far as the leather I think the current Vanson comp weight is good stuff (though not as great as the vintage CW) but it was more like around the pandemic where they were having supply issues. But I can't say for certain.

I read about Vanson being more for riders multiple times, but I don't get why. Both have the same design made for riding. What are the features that make Vanson more rider and Schott more fashion? Is it the leather?

 

[Aloysius]

I read about Vanson being more for riders multiple times, but I don't get why. Both have the same design made for riding. What are the features that make Vanson more rider and Schott more fashion? Is it the leather?

It's the pattern but I wouldn't necessarily write off Schott for riding either.

There are Schott patterns that are repros of vintage patterns, and there are Schott patterns that have newer developments for writers.

And both Schott and Vanson's standard steer hide is immeasurably more resilient than the kinds of stuff you'd find in the Japanese repro market. So there are a number of factors that go into it.

 

[01flhr]

Vanson is more of a riders brand because they actually make competition riding gear and schott does not. A vanson wont come apart on you in a slide where who knows with a schott. Vanson has done their research on what thread to use and the finish of the leather.

 

[jacketjunkie]

Dear jacket enthusiasts,
I'm looking for some advice and recommendations on which jacket I should choose. I'll share my thoughts and background so you have some context.
I've always liked leather jackets, but I didn't get around to buying one until three years ago, when I bought one here in Argentina, where I live. It's a lightweight leather biker jacket that has surprisingly held up well despite taking quite a beating. I don't ride motorcycles, but I fell in love with the versatility of the design. However, the fit isn't quite what I'm looking for.

Now that I'm about to turn 30, I want to treat myself to a really good leather jacket that will last me for decades, even with heavy use. A jacket I can build memories with and, hopefully, pass down to my family when I'm gone (fingers crossed that's still many decades away).

I've done some research and narrowed it down to Schott and Vanson. Of course, since they're both based in the US, I'll have to import the jacket, which I'm willing to do. Unfortunately, although Argentina produces a lot of leather, I'm somewhat wary of the quality of its jacket manufacturing, especially considering that I want something that will stand up to just about anything I throw at it for many years. Since I'll be importing it, returning or exchanging the jacket won't really be an option.

Therefore, something that looks cool, is highly resistant to the elements and ages well. An inmortal Jacket (I know nothing is inmortal but you know what I mean).

I'm currently torn between the Schott 618 (Steer or Horse) and the Vanson C2. Both have the look and durability I'm after. However, they differ in materials, fit, price, and brand history.

The 618HH is made from steerhide treatet to sustain water and the elements, which I understand is a great material (correct me if I'm wrong, or if the horsehide version would actually last longer). Schott has a reputation for quality, and its jackets seem to age beautifully. The brand's long history is also a nice bonus. The downside is the price:$1,020 or $1,125 for HH.
The C2 is made from premium steerhide, has larger pockets (which sounds appealing), and is considerably cheaper at $799. However, I've come across comments raising concerns about the quality and consistency of Vanson's current leather. Since I'm looking for something to last and age well, a quality problem will lead to lost money and time.

I think I'm leaning more toward the 618, but the price difference is significant enough to make me hesitate. Also, with the importation fees, both prices increse and also does the difference between them.

In case it's helpful for your feedback, here are my measurements:

• Height: 1.87 m (approximately 6'2")
• Chest: 111 cm (43.7")
• Across shoulders: 51 cm (20")
• Sleeve length: 69 cm (27")
• Weight: 85 kg (187 lbs)
• Build: Slim, with a somewhat V-shaped torso

According to Schott's sizing guide, I could be either a size 44 or 46, depending on the fit.
I'd really appreciate hearing your thoughts, especially from anyone who owns either jacket or has experience with both brands. Thanks in advance!

Ps: I know there are similar discussion on the forum but they are from 1 year ago and quality of the brands may have changed since.

I have bought Vanson jackets in most of the past 12 years due to changed taste and sizes....I also own vintage jackets from the 90s and 2000s. The competition weight is different on pretty much all of them, as not only they switch tanneries but also do business with multiple tanneries at once to meet their demands.. in other words you could order two jackets from Vanson today and the comp weight wouldn't necessarily look the same regardless. Summing up, despite some hysteria that was instigated by people who saw a single jacket or two of a batch they didn't fancy, there is no such thing as old good competition weight cowhide and bad new competition weight cowhide, but there is a fluctuation with regards to grain, stiffness and topcoat with Vansons leather. However, they specify the same with every tannery in regards to thickness and durability, so no matter what you get, it will outlive you.

Tldr; don't worry about vansons leather, you will be fine.

I own a Vanson C2 and I also briefly owned a Schott Cross ZIP. For a casual jacket downtown, the Schott is easier to pull off, it just looks sleeker. The Vanson is built like a tank and looks like a tank, it does not blend in and disappear. If you plan to ride, get a Vanson, they have expertise in riding jackets. If you want a cool statement piece for casual wear, get the Schott.


Edit2: disregard the sizing table for the c2 above, the standard vansons are shorter by an inch. My size 38 has a 23" back as opposed to 24 as written in that size table.

 

[Bfd70]

I have bought Vanson jackets in most of the past 12 years due to changed taste and sizes....I also mown vintage jackets from the 90s and 2000s. The competition weight is different on pretty much all of them, as not only they switch tanneries but also do business with multiple tanneries at once to meet their demands.. in other words you could murder two jackets from Vanson today and the comp weight wouldn't necessarily look the same regardless. Summing up, despite some hysteria that was instigated by people who saw a single jacket or two of a batch they didn't fancy, there is no such thing as old good competition weight cowhide and bad new competition weight cowhide, but there is a fluctuation with regards to grain, stiffness and topcoat with Vansons leather. However, they specify the same with every tannery in regards to thickness and durability, so no matter what you get, it will outlive you.

Tldr; don't worry about vansons leather, you will be fine.

I own a Vanson C2 and I also briefly owned a Schott Cross ZIP. For a casual jacket downtown, the Schott is easier to pull off, it just looks sleeker. The Vanson is built like a tank and looks like a tank, it does not blend in and disappear. If you plan to ride, get a Vanson, they have expertise in riding jackets. If you want a cool statement piece for casual wear, get the Schott.


Edit2: disregard the sizing table for the c2 above, the standard vansons are shorter by an inch. My size 38 has a 23" back as opposed to 24 as written in that size table.

Yep. This ^. Can pretty much close thread.
Re table: That is for a vanson model based on the c2 which is why i put the caveat. Unfortunately vanson doesn’t post measurements. Schotts decision to start doing that is a major improvement

 

[JMax]

You can also call Vanson and have a C2 built to your specs.

 

[2-or-more]

Or buy a Vanson Thunderbird!

 

[Tom71]

Late to the party, but I have one or two things on my mind as well:

Both jackets are very cropped. You are a tall guy, and if the lenght is ditributed evenly, you may want to check back-lenght re your torso.
The C2 runs even shorter than the numbers suggest, so at first glance my vote would go for the Schott.

At 6´2" with an almost 44" chest and 20" shoulder, no way you can do a size 44 with the 618HH. I am 6´with a 42" chest and have a 44. I also own the C2 at a 42 (I could size down one but wouldn´t as I quite like the extra room and can´t go any shorter.

All the rest, I am with @jacketjunkie: Schott gets the edge for cool factor, but both jackets are very well made and offer good value for the money.

 

[GauchoGermanico]

Late to the party, but I have one or two things on my mind as well:

Both jackets are very cropped. You are a tall guy, and if the lenght is ditributed evenly, you may want to check back-lenght re your torso.
The C2 runs even shorter than the numbers suggest, so at first glance my vote would go for the Schott.

At 6´2" with an almost 44" chest and 20" shoulder, no way you can do a size 44 with the 618HH. I am 6´with a 42" chest and have a 44. I also own the C2 at a 42 (I could size down one but wouldn´t as I quite like the extra room and can´t go any shorter.

All the rest, I am with @jacketjunkie: Schott gets the edge for cool factor, but both jackets are very well made and offer good value for the money.

And how does it fit? I'm worried that a 44 might be to small (specially in the back) and a 46 too big roomy.

I've tried to reach out to Schott's customer support but no reply

 

[Tom71]

I couldn’t do a 618HH in 42 as shoulders and chest would be too restrictive. Hem would work as it’s pretty generous (hence the belt).

The C2 I could size down, but then it would be too short for my liking.

First Schott, then Vanson.

 

[Highwayman64]

I couldn’t do a 618HH in 42 as shoulders and chest would be too restrictive. Hem would work as it’s pretty generous (hence the belt).

The C2 I could size down, but than it would be too short for my liking.

First Schott, then Vanson.

View attachment 816735 View attachment 816736

Is that Dell’s C2? Looks great

 

[Tom71]

Is that Dell’s C2? Looks great

It is. Can´t recommend this enough. If there´s one thing about Vanson that´s only so-so, it´s their hides. The Badalassi just works so well for this style, IMO. Needless to say, Del is an absolute pleasure to deal with.

 

[Highwayman64]

That ******i really takes it up a notch. I do think the overall pattern on the Vanson is better too. I ended up getting a Schott 618hh as my first leather jacket instead of the C2 because I wanted horsehide but I kind of regret it.

 

[RJD257]

Good Morning !

Been reading & perusing quietly in the background, since my research and ultimate purchase of my Schott 618HH almost three years ago (…wow…) on November 28, 2023 (pic below). Three years later, I’m considering a Vanson C-2 or Thurnderbird….not because I don’t love the horsehide in my Schott, but because I’m now looking for something that not only comes close to the elusive Hero Cut of the Durable, but will also protect me as much as possible when riding - if (God forbid) things go south or sideways. Hence I’m re-focused on the Vanson.

Just for public consumption & comparison, I’m sharing my research & journey here, hoping it informs & helps

First, the “Gold Standard” or “North Star” of The Durable, in size 40, credit to dmoser1978 who has this jacket in his collection:

Durable 40:
P2P: 21"
Waist: 18"
Back Length: 22"
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: 23"
Middle collar to sleeve end: 34"
Shoulder: 21”
Taper: 3"


SCHOTT N.Y.C. - 618HH: Horsehide Perfecto® - 46
I had to size up dramatically for this jacket, due to the "restrictive shoulders & chest” as Tom71 cited. Same experience with my body, but “your mileage may vary." Also, I’m personally still trying to come as close as possible to the “Holy Grail Hero Cut” look of The Durable, and I wanted enough room in the chest to allow for my thickest hoodie. As a result, I’ve got enough room in the waist of this jacket that I’ve considered having it professionally tailored/tapered.

P2P: 24.25”
Waist: 22”
Back Length: 25”
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: 26”
Middle collar to sleeve end: 36”
Shoulder: 19.5”
Taper: 2.25”

Of all the jackets hagning in my collection (both riding gear and not), my personal “North Star” whose proportions come as close as possible to the Durable and which I enjoy wearing the most:

P2P: 24.25”
Waist: 21”
Back Length: 24.5”
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: 25”
Middle collar to sleeve end: 35”
Shoulder: 20.5”
Taper: 3.25"


As I understand it, the specs on the Vanson C-2 or Thunderbird in a 42 are:
P2P: 23.5”
Waist: 21”
Back Length: 24.5”
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: n/a
Middle collar to sleeve end: 35”
Shoulder: n/a
Taper: 2.5”


Unlike some other posters, who may have different proportions: I’ve always preferred the shorter center back length & shorter (resaonable) sleeves on a motorcycle jacket, especially since both of my bikes are cruisers.
Hoping that the Vanson be the instersection of “Durable Hero Cut + High Quality American Made Leather + Certified PPE C-2 Riding Gear”

That being said, I am concerned about the “hides” comment above, if anyone can elaborate/embellish more. I know from my initial research that a few years ago Vanson faced challenges getting American hides, and as of this writing, their website currently cites: “Each Vanson is designed, engineered, cut and hand made in the U.S.A. of imported and domestic materials."

After speaking to a few local veteran Vanson retailers, I’m planning on a road trip to Vanson in the next few weeks to have them measure & fit me, giving consideration to the body armor, which they are more than happy to install, but treat as a “Custom” order.
If that’s the case, without seeing them in person yet, I’m envisioning my custom to be an armored Thunderbird with the Brass Hardware of the C-2

The journey continues….

View attachment IMG_0453.jpeg

 

[Highwayman64]

Good Morning !

Been reading & perusing quietly in the background, since my research and ultimate purchase of my Schott 618HH almost three years ago (…wow…) on November 28, 2023 (pic below). Three years later, I’m considering a Vanson C-2 or Thurnderbird….not because I don’t love the horsehide in my Schott, but because I’m now looking for something that not only comes close to the elusive Hero Cut of the Durable, but will also protect me as much as possible when riding - if (God forbid) things go south or sideways. Hence I’m re-focused on the Vanson.

Just for public consumption & comparison, I’m sharing my research & journey here, hoping it informs & helps

First, the “Gold Standard” or “North Star” of The Durable, in size 40, credit to dmoser1978 who has this jacket in his collection:

Durable 40:
P2P: 21"
Waist: 18"
Back Length: 22"
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: 23"
Middle collar to sleeve end: 34"
Shoulder: 21”
Taper: 3"


SCHOTT N.Y.C. - 618HH: Horsehide Perfecto® - 46
I had to size up dramatically for this jacket, due to the "restrictive shoulders & chest” as Tom71 cited. Same experience with my body, but “your mileage may vary." Also, I’m personally still trying to come as close as possible to the “Holy Grail Hero Cut” look of The Durable, and I wanted enough room in the chest to allow for my thickest hoodie. As a result, I’ve got enough room in the waist of this jacket that I’ve considered having it professionally tailored/tapered.

P2P: 24.25”
Waist: 22”
Back Length: 25”
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: 26”
Middle collar to sleeve end: 36”
Shoulder: 19.5”
Taper: 2.25”

Of all the jackets hagning in my collection (both riding gear and not), my personal “North Star” whose proportions come as close as possible to the Durable and which I enjoy wearing the most:

P2P: 24.25”
Waist: 21”
Back Length: 24.5”
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: 25”
Middle collar to sleeve end: 35”
Shoulder: 20.5”
Taper: 3.25"


As I understand it, the specs on the Vanson C-2 or Thunderbird in a 42 are:
P2P: 23.5”
Waist: 21”
Back Length: 24.5”
Sleeve shoulder seam to end: n/a
Middle collar to sleeve end: 35”
Shoulder: n/a
Taper: 2.5”


Unlike some other posters, who may have different proportions: I’ve always preferred the shorter center back length & shorter (resaonable) sleeves on a motorcycle jacket, especially since both of my bikes are cruisers.
Hoping that the Vanson be the instersection of “Durable Hero Cut + High Quality American Made Leather + Certified PPE C-2 Riding Gear”

That being said, I am concerned about the “hides” comment above, if anyone can elaborate/embellish more. I know from my initial research that a few years ago Vanson faced challenges getting American hides, and as of this writing, their website currently cites: “Each Vanson is designed, engineered, cut and hand made in the U.S.A. of imported and domestic materials."

After speaking to a few local veteran Vanson retailers, I’m planning on a road trip to Vanson in the next few weeks to have them measure & fit me, giving consideration to the body armor, which they are more than happy to install, but treat as a “Custom” order.
If that’s the case, without seeing them in person yet, I’m envisioning my custom to be an armored Thunderbird with the Brass Hardware of the C-2

The journey continues….

View attachment 816761

That’s my biggest gripe with my 618hh. The jacket is about an inch too long, the hem is slightly too wide

 

[GauchoGermanico]

I couldn’t do a 618HH in 42 as shoulders and chest would be too restrictive. Hem would work as it’s pretty generous (hence the belt).

The C2 I could size down, but then it would be too short for my liking.

First Schott, then Vanson.

View attachment 816735 View attachment 816736

Both look great! Del's one looks quite good indeed, but the price might be too high for me considering the importation.

Could I kindly ask you about the cross shoulder meassurment of your size 44 Schott? I've been comparing the meassurements of a Jacket I have, which fits quite well and it is smaller by a bit in every part when compared to the size 44 that Schott has on their web. So I think that maybe I'm closer to a 44 than a 46. Problem is that my jacket has exactly the same cross shoulder width as Schott's one, but if by any reasson Schott's real cross shoulder size is shorter... then the jacket could not fit me (depending how off the meassurement of the website is).