inspiribomb
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Hi everyone, first post here. I recently acquired a lovely Vanson Model B, and wanted to share my story, especially since it seems many people consider this jacket along with the Schott 141 and 641.
TL;DR - Both are terrific jackets, but have different cuts/fit.
Rewind several years, and I recall falling in love with the Schott 141 at a local leather shop in a little town called Osceola. The thick, soft leather, the fit, and the way it transformed my look when I put it on. My wife surprised me with one for my birthday, and I wear it to this day, mostly on the motorcycle, but also whenever I can out and about.
Somewhere along the way, I think I stumbled across this forum, and started looking at similar jackets. The Schott 641, Vanson Model B, etc. Having a muscular build, I thought maybe the 641 or B might have a more tailored fit to my body type.
Neither of these jackets are easy to come by locally, so trying to figure out my size was a challenge. I wear a size 44 Schott 141, but recall requiring a size 48 Vanson Comet when I tried it on. I read and read and read, trying to figure out which Model B size would be best. Maybe if I read long enough the internet would tell me which size I needed...
The opportunity came up to buy a Model B in competition weight cowhide. I decided to take a chance, and had the assurance that I could return the jacket if it didn't fit. As I started putting on the jacket, I was expecting to get it on about half way before it got stuck and wouldn't go any further (I had this expectation firmly in my head, so that I wouldn't be TOO disappointed when it didn't fit). Much to my surprise and glee, it slipped on like it was made just for me.
Being accustomed to the typical very STIFF Vanson jackets, I was surprised at how soft and supple this one felt. Reaching out to Vanson proved to be a worthwhile and quite pleasant experience. They informed me that the jacket is indeed competition cowhide, and was produced in 1996. I suppose that is why it's so well broken in - its about 24 years old! I did get some of the Vanson leather balm, which seemed to make the leather even softer.
So, which do I like more - the Schott 141 or Vanson Model B? Tough call. They are both stellar garments. I think the Vanson wears better off the bike, and has a slimmer, more fitted look/feel/fit. It could be a sizing thing, or the way they are cut. I think the Schott would be better for someone with some extra pounds in their belly. I expect both would last multiple lifetimes if taken care of.
So, I want to provide some sizing information that may be helpful to someone else trying to decide. And of course, will end with some pictures
Will post more with some better lighting to show fit and comparison between the two.
Me - 5'11", 230 pounds, muscular build, 43.5" chest
Schott 141 Size 44 - Fits well with room for a sweatshirt underneath. 42 would likely be too tight in the shoulders, but may be good for someone with a smaller build or who likes the "second skin" fit (I do not). 46 would be too big. Leather is buttery soft brand new, with little break-in necessary.
Vanson Model B Size 46 - Fits very well, more fitted than the 141. Has room for a light sweatshirt, probably not anything too bulky or would be tight. I think a 44 would be too small, and 48 would be too big. Can't speak to the new leather, but Vanson is notorious for being extremely stiff, and taking a lot of time/effort to break in. Once broken in (like mine) they are incredible.
TL;DR - Both are terrific jackets, but have different cuts/fit.
Rewind several years, and I recall falling in love with the Schott 141 at a local leather shop in a little town called Osceola. The thick, soft leather, the fit, and the way it transformed my look when I put it on. My wife surprised me with one for my birthday, and I wear it to this day, mostly on the motorcycle, but also whenever I can out and about.
Somewhere along the way, I think I stumbled across this forum, and started looking at similar jackets. The Schott 641, Vanson Model B, etc. Having a muscular build, I thought maybe the 641 or B might have a more tailored fit to my body type.
Neither of these jackets are easy to come by locally, so trying to figure out my size was a challenge. I wear a size 44 Schott 141, but recall requiring a size 48 Vanson Comet when I tried it on. I read and read and read, trying to figure out which Model B size would be best. Maybe if I read long enough the internet would tell me which size I needed...
The opportunity came up to buy a Model B in competition weight cowhide. I decided to take a chance, and had the assurance that I could return the jacket if it didn't fit. As I started putting on the jacket, I was expecting to get it on about half way before it got stuck and wouldn't go any further (I had this expectation firmly in my head, so that I wouldn't be TOO disappointed when it didn't fit). Much to my surprise and glee, it slipped on like it was made just for me.
Being accustomed to the typical very STIFF Vanson jackets, I was surprised at how soft and supple this one felt. Reaching out to Vanson proved to be a worthwhile and quite pleasant experience. They informed me that the jacket is indeed competition cowhide, and was produced in 1996. I suppose that is why it's so well broken in - its about 24 years old! I did get some of the Vanson leather balm, which seemed to make the leather even softer.
So, which do I like more - the Schott 141 or Vanson Model B? Tough call. They are both stellar garments. I think the Vanson wears better off the bike, and has a slimmer, more fitted look/feel/fit. It could be a sizing thing, or the way they are cut. I think the Schott would be better for someone with some extra pounds in their belly. I expect both would last multiple lifetimes if taken care of.
So, I want to provide some sizing information that may be helpful to someone else trying to decide. And of course, will end with some pictures
Me - 5'11", 230 pounds, muscular build, 43.5" chest
Schott 141 Size 44 - Fits well with room for a sweatshirt underneath. 42 would likely be too tight in the shoulders, but may be good for someone with a smaller build or who likes the "second skin" fit (I do not). 46 would be too big. Leather is buttery soft brand new, with little break-in necessary.
Vanson Model B Size 46 - Fits very well, more fitted than the 141. Has room for a light sweatshirt, probably not anything too bulky or would be tight. I think a 44 would be too small, and 48 would be too big. Can't speak to the new leather, but Vanson is notorious for being extremely stiff, and taking a lot of time/effort to break in. Once broken in (like mine) they are incredible.
