How To Soften A Stiff Leather Jacket Effectively

One of the most appealing characteristics of a leather jacket is that it is relatively easy to care for and maintain. However, over time, leather can become stiff and dry if not properly cared for. When this occurs, it can become less comfortable and lose its original look. It may even crack easier. That should be avoided at all costs.

So you can enjoy your leather jacket for decades to come, we are going to give you some tips as to how to soften a stiff leather jacket. This can frequently be a concern when a jacket is new, but it can also be a concern if a jacket has been left unconditioned and mistreated for an extended period of time.

Leather Softening

On the entire planet, one of the most versatile and stylish fabrics is leather. It possesses specific properties you can't find anywhere else due, in part, to the fact it is not a man-made/synthetic material. It is made from animal hide. Its qualities make it superior over other fabrics. What qualities do we refer to?

  • It can enhance the appearance of its wearer thanks to its natural grain.
  • Leather is smooth and supple (when cared for correctly).
  • Though extraordinarily comfortable, leather is particularly durable.

Leather of certain types, however, can become stiff. To get to the point where it's no longer comfortable for the wearer, however, it usually takes years of usage or, at the very least, months of being ignored or mistreated. What can you do to make leather less stiff and, rather, make it feel softer?

Conditioning Your Leather

Some people prefer to condition their leather jacket every few months with saddle soap. But there are many leather conditioners on the market. This will help keep the leather soft and supple, and it protects against drying out. Your leather jacket needs hydration, and conditioning helps. It also will assist your jacket be more resistant to dust, dirt, and water.

What to do: Until it is no longer visible, rub your chosen conditioner into your leather jacket. Deep into the pores of the leather, the conditioner will seep, softening and moisturizing it from the inside out.

Other Options

Both olive oil and water have been used, to some level of success, by leather jacket owners for softening leather.

  • Olive oil – As an alternative, olive oil can be used instead of leather conditioner. Go to the grocery store and grab some extra virgin olive oil. With the same conditioning product application technique described above, use the olive oil instead. To soften their leather, some people have succeeded with avocado oil or coconut oil, as well.
  • Water – You can use a damp, clean cloth or a spray bottle to slightly moisten your leather jacket. The key here is not to saturate the leather surface, just make it damp. You can damage the leather with too much water. To remove any excess water, use another clean cloth. Now, let it naturally dry. To prevent cracking and provide dry leather with a essential moisture, however, leather conditioner should still be used.

Note: To help discourage your leather jacket from becoming stiff, when you are not wearing it – and don't plan to wear it for some time – try to store it in an area where the humidity is between 40% and 50%.

It's Time To Purchase A New Leather Jacket!

When is the best time to purchase a new leather jacket? Answer: Any time! Get one with a removable liner if you want to be able to wear it year-round. The liner helps keep you warm in winter and is removable for the hot months. Get a jacket with vents and you can even wear it during the hottest summers.

Looking to save money? Check out our impressive section of clearance items. Do you prefer vintage wear to today's modern styles? We have an entire line of vintage leather jackets.

Before you look anywhere else for a leather jacket, shop at Taylor's Leatherwear.