Motorhead82
New in Town
- Messages
- 42
Years ago i bought a 70s Lewis Lightning. I had wanted one for years but was slightly disappointed by the hide. The design itself was great but the hide seemed too light and flimsy. My tailor told me it was sheephide but i didn't believe him. I assumed, for the cost they would use something at least as durable as my steerhide Schott perfecto. I sold the jacket and years later got a Mascot. Again, same deal. Great design but seemingly flimsy leather but you know what? always listen to your tailor, its now clear that both are made of sheep leather. I suppose i always associated sheep hide with cheap fashion jackets as well as (pretty cool) flying jackets. It didnt seem like something that would hold up to well on the road although both the Lewis and Mascot were both quite nice.
I always hear people grouse about how new Lewis jackets just cant measure up to the old but I am sorry, I will take cowhide over sheephide any day.
I am wondering though...why did they use sheep? Are sheep more plentiful than cows in Britain? (I have never been there).
It's a matter of taste, I am certainly not knocking those old British brands. I think I will stick with my steerhide Schotts and latter day Lewises from now on though.
I always hear people grouse about how new Lewis jackets just cant measure up to the old but I am sorry, I will take cowhide over sheephide any day.
I am wondering though...why did they use sheep? Are sheep more plentiful than cows in Britain? (I have never been there).
It's a matter of taste, I am certainly not knocking those old British brands. I think I will stick with my steerhide Schotts and latter day Lewises from now on though.