Getting the right size is one of the most important parts of buying a leather jacket — especially online. Leather doesn't stretch the way fabric does, so if a jacket doesn't fit when it arrives, adjustments are limited. Taking a few accurate measurements at home before you order takes a few minutes and can save a lot of hassle.
This guide shows you exactly how to measure for a leather jacket, what each measurement means, and how to use that information when choosing a size at Elvora™.
What You Need
- A flexible measuring tape (soft fabric measuring tape, not a metal ruler)
- A friend to help (recommended for back and chest measurements)
- A well-fitting shirt or base layer to measure over
Measure in your normal standing position — relaxed, not puffed up or hunched over. Measurements taken while tensed or in an unusual posture will throw off your sizing.
Key Measurements for a Leather Jacket
1. Chest
The chest is the most important measurement for jacket fit. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest — across the nipple line and under the armpits. Keep the tape level and snug but not tight. Note the number in inches or centimeters.
When comparing to a size chart, look for a chest measurement that gives you 2 to 4 inches of room over your actual measurement. This is your ease allowance — it allows you to move and breathe comfortably without the jacket pulling.
2. Shoulders
Shoulder width determines how well a jacket sits on your frame. Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other, across the back. The end point is where your shoulder naturally ends — where it slopes downward into your arm.
This is one area where it's helpful to have someone assist. Measuring your own shoulder width accurately while standing in position is difficult solo.
3. Sleeve Length
Sleeve length determines whether the jacket ends at the right point on your wrist. Measure from the top of your shoulder (the same edge point used for shoulder width) down the outside of your arm to your wrist bone.
Do this with your arm slightly bent — sleeves that fit with a straight arm will be too short when you flex your elbow.
4. Body Length (Back Length)
Body length determines how long the jacket sits on your torso. Measure from the top of your shoulder (at the base of your neck) straight down the center of your back to where you want the jacket to end — usually at or just below the hip.
Compare this to the jacket's stated back length in the size chart.
5. Waist (Optional)
For fitted or belted styles, waist measurement can be useful. Measure around your natural waist — the narrowest point of your torso, usually a few inches above your hip bones. Keep the tape snug but not compressed.
How to Use Your Measurements at Elvora™
Each product page at Elvora™ includes a size chart with chest, shoulder, sleeve, and body length measurements for each size from XS to 5XL. Compare your measurements to the chart and find the size where your chest measurement falls within the listed range.
If your measurements place you between two sizes:
- If you prefer a fitted look, size down
- If you plan to layer underneath or prefer more room, size up
- If your measurements are significantly between sizes — or your proportions are unusual (e.g. broad shoulders with a slim waist) — use the Custom size option
The Custom Size Option
All men leather jackets and women leather jackets at Elvora™ include a Custom size option. When selected, you submit your exact measurements and the jacket is made to your specifications.
This is the best option if:
- You're between standard sizes
- You have specific proportions that standard sizing doesn't accommodate well (e.g. tall with a shorter torso, or wide shoulders with a slim chest)
- You want a specific fit — closer or more relaxed — than the standard pattern provides
Custom sizes are made to order, so allow additional production time.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Measuring Over a Heavy Layer
Measuring over a thick sweater or hoodie adds unnecessary bulk to your measurements. Measure in a fitted base layer — a t-shirt or light long sleeve — for accurate results.
Rounding Down on Chest Measurement
If your chest measurement is 40.5 inches, don't round down to 40. Use the actual measurement and factor in ease when choosing your size.
Ignoring Shoulder Fit
Shoulder fit is the hardest alteration to make on a finished leather jacket. If the shoulders don't fit, the jacket won't look right regardless of adjustments elsewhere. Prioritize shoulder fit above chest and sleeve when choosing between sizes.
Assuming Your Standard Clothing Size Translates Directly
Leather jacket sizing varies between brands and styles. A Medium in one brand may be equivalent to a Large in another. Always check the specific size chart for the jacket you're ordering rather than relying on your usual clothing size.
Leather Jacket Fit by Style
Biker / Motorcycle Jacket
Should fit close to the body with some ease across the chest. The shoulder seam sits at the shoulder edge. Sleeves are typically slightly shorter than other styles — wrist bone or just above.
Bomber Jacket
A more relaxed fit. Some extra room in the chest and shoulders is normal and expected. The ribbed hem should sit comfortably at the hip without pulling up.
Cafe Racer
A slim, close fit — this style is designed to be worn without layering. If you plan to wear it over bulkier pieces, size up from your usual.
Shearling Jacket
Shearling jackets have internal bulk from the wool lining. They run slightly smaller inside than the exterior measurements suggest. Size up by one compared to your usual if in doubt.
FAQs — Leather Jacket Sizing
What if my measurements fall between two sizes?
Use the Custom size option and submit your exact measurements. Elvora™ will make the jacket to your specifications for a precise fit.
How much ease should a leather jacket have?
For a standard fit, 2 to 4 inches of ease over your chest measurement. For a fitted look, 1 to 2 inches. For a relaxed or layered look, 4 to 6 inches.
Do Elvora™ leather jackets run true to size?
Elvora™ size charts are based on the actual garment measurements, not body measurements. Compare your measurements to the chart and use the ease guidance above to choose your size.
Can I return a jacket if the size is wrong?
Check the returns policy on the Elvora™ website for current information on returns and exchanges. For made-to-order pieces, the Custom size option is the best way to avoid sizing issues.
Do you offer custom sizing for all styles?
Yes. The Custom size option is available across all products at Elvora™ — including bomber jackets, motorcycle jackets, shearling jackets, and trench coats.
Final Thoughts
Taking five minutes to measure accurately before ordering a leather jacket is genuinely worth doing. It reduces the risk of fit issues and makes the Custom size option more useful when you do use it. Follow the measurements above, compare carefully to the size chart, and don't hesitate to go custom if your measurements don't land cleanly within standard sizing. All Elvora™ jackets are made to order — including custom sizes — with genuine leather and quality construction from XS to 5XL.