J-31 Horsehide Motorcycle Jacket
Description
Pre-order (S/5XL)
Pre-orders are only available in sizes S and 5XL, designed for customers who cannot find their size.
Delivery Time
Estimated Production Cycle: Approximately 7 days
If you've been waiting for the right size, this is your chance.
Note: The garment worn in the photos is a sample; everything is identical except for the zipper.The shipped garment will have a custom CONMLAR zipper.
The Buco J-31 by Joseph Buegeleisen originated in 1949 and is a pilot-style motorcycle jacket. Its distinctive double-breasted front serves primarily as a decorative element, though some say it was used for reflective purposes at a time when infrastructure was underdeveloped and street lighting was limited, acting as a safety feature for visibility.
The jacket features front hand-warmer pockets and a map pocket that extends across the back. The hem is equipped with leather loops to accommodate an optional belt, while inner leather loops help secure the jacket to the pants.
Using Japanese counterparts as reference, the jacket was carefully developed and refined in fit, materials, and finish. With a shorter, boxier silhouette and no belt, it offers a bold and more versatile fit.
Note: The front zippers are replaced and different from those in the product sample photos
Details
- The BUCO J-24 defined the archetype with its D-pocket, rear game pocket, and distinctive belt. While later versions simplified the design, this edition restores the full original spec—mouton collar, detachable belt, and all.
- Crafted from custom tea-core horsehide developed to Shinki-grade standards. With upgraded AA-grade Polish hides, the leather offers softness, rich luster, and a refined grain.
- Broad-shouldered, wide-chested, and cropped, the fit follows the muscular American style rather than the slim Japanese reproductions. Larger armholes ensure mobility, while tapered cuffs and waistband emphasize the powerful trapezoid shape.
- Hardware: Period-correct TALON zippers and custom DOT snaps.
- Collar: Detachable reddish-brown mouton-on-leather collar, larger for bolder presence.
- Details: Chest D-pocket, rear game pocket, and detachable belt.
- Construction: Silk-cotton interlayer replaces original wool fill for lighter comfort.
- Thread: Durable COATS sewing thread for period authenticity and strength.
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Size guide
All measurements are taken with the jacket laid flat and are listed in centimeters.
Slight differences may occur due to manual measuring.
Please contact customer service if you need a further assist to place an order.
Model reference: 178 cm (5'10") / 73 kg (160 lbs) — wearing size L.
The model featured is Asian; European customers may wish to consider purchasing one size larger.
| Size | Shoulder | Chest | Sleeve | Back Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 43CM | 102CM | 59CM | 55.5CM |
| M | 44CM | 106CM | 60CM | 57CM |
| L | 45CM | 110CM | 61CM | 58.5CM |
| XL | 46CM | 114CM | 62CM | 60CM |
| 2XL | 47CM | 118CM | 63CM | 61.5CM |
| 3XL | 48CM | 122CM | 64CM | 63CM |
| 4XL | 49CM | 126 | 65 | 64.5 |
| 5XL | 50CM | 130CM | 65CM | 64.5CM |
Buco J31 (1949)
The Buco J-31, created by Joseph Buegeleisen in 1949, is a pilot-style motorcycle jacket. Its signature double-breasted button arrangement serves as a decorative feature; however, it is also theorized that—given the rudimentary road infrastructure of the era and the scarcity of streetlights—these buttons were intended to act as reflectors, serving as a safety warning to others.
The jacket features front-entry hand pockets and a straight-access map pocket on the back. The hem is fitted with leather loops to accommodate an optional belt, while internal leather tabs are provided to secure the jacket to one's trousers.
Leather use and maintenance knowledge
- Leather/fur/textile products are consumables. Proper maintenance can extend their service life.
- When wearing it daily, you should pay attention to protecting the leather surface to prevent scratches by hard or sharp objects, and avoid contact with oil, acidic and alkaline substances
- Leather products are strictly prohibited from washing, tumbling and drying, and long-term exposure to the sun.
- If they are wet by rain or moisture, you can use a soft dry cloth to gently wipe off the surface water stains and dry them in a cool and ventilated place. Do not wear before it is completely dry
- Leather should not be rubbed with water or gasoline, as water will make the leather hard and gasoline will volatilize the oil in the leather and cause it to crack
- Natural fur/fur collar will have slight curls after long-term wearing or washing. Detergents may cause hair loss at some edges, so dry cleaning is recommended
- Colorless maintenance oil should be applied before changing seasons and storage to prevent leather aging and cracking. Before application, a small area should be tested on a hidden part to prevent discoloration caused by chemical reactions between maintenance oil and leather
- Store in a hanging position and do not fold or press heavily to prevent wrinkles on leather/fur
- Mothballs for mildew and insects should not come into direct contact with leather
