Thedi vs equivalent Japanese makers?

[ton312]

I think I’m out. This place is beyond salvation. F me I’m a **** anyway.

 

[charlieknie]

FWIW on sizing these different brands:

I have two Thedi "jackets" - one being a shearling vest - and I love them both. One thing to note is that I had to size up two sizes for the most comfortable fit (I usually wear a European M and wear XL here).

I also have a RC Hercules in Shinki Horsehide in size 42, which is probably the leather jacket I wear most. Here however I had the benefit to try in person before buying, which helped (and in retrospect, a size bigger would've been ok as well).

 

[zebedee]

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Yeah I think you’re right on that front. I haven’t personally handled shinki, but I plan to when I visit Japan. I’ve heard that it’s not as substantial as some other horsehides but I think the shinki you get varies between makers.
But like you said, depends on intended use and what you’re looking for. In my case, I like leather that has a lot of visible grain and character but yet easy to wear and doesn’t require a ridiculously long break in. A nice smell is a bonus

The other thing to remember is that Japan has several tanneries that produce hides as good as Shinki.