Colorado is well-known for its many sunny days each year. And while that sun can be great for getting outside, it’s not ideal for leather jackets. With repeat and frequent exposure, the sun’s UV rays can make your jacket look less pristine. But is that damage really as serious as it seems? Here’s what your Denver leather and fur experts want you to know.

Sun Can Cause Leather to Dry and Crack
The sun’s UV rays are especially strong at higher altitudes where the atmosphere is thinner, and clouds are often sparse. And just as those rays can burn your skin when you spend too much time outside, they can damage your leather jacket. 

With frequent and repeat exposure to direct sunlight, the leather can start to dry out and crack. The sun effectively pulls out the leather’s natural oils, causing your jacket to look dull and stiff. And if you’re not careful or don’t take care to adequately moisturize the leather after it’s been damaged, regular wear could cause the leather to crack. 

How You Can Keep Your Leather Jacket Looking Great
Though sun damage is serious and can be difficult to repair, there are things you can do to better protect the material and keep your jacket looking like new for longer. These are a few tips to help:

Store your jacket in your closet: If you can, hang your jacket in your closet or in a space away from direct sunlight. This will reduce the leather’s exposure to UV rays when you’re not actively wearing your jacket. 
Follow the care instructions on the label: High-quality leather jackets will typically come with clear care instructions to help keep the leather supple for years to come. Follow those instructions and stay on top of routine maintenance each year.
Clean the leather: Leather will need to be cleaned every once in a while if you want to keep it looking its best. Use a dedicated leather cleaner to gently lift up stains and remove dirt and contaminants that could further damage the look and feel of your jacket.

Keep in mind that tears and other types of damage should always be repaired by an experienced professional. At Jonval, our team can help you keep your jacket looking great with ease.

What to Do If Your Jacket Is Already Damaged
Though preventing damage is always best, it’s not always possible. Here’s what you can do if your jacket is already damaged:

• Get it repaired: Some damage may be repairable. Work with an experienced leather specialist and let them handle all repairs.
• Patch rips and tears: Patching small tears and rips in your jacket can restore its look and prevent future damage. Get those rips patched as soon as you notice them.
• Condition the leather: You may be able to restore the leather’s flexibility and texture by conditioning it with an approved oil or leather lotion. 

Replace That Worn-Out and Damaged Leather Jacket Today
If your current leather jacket leaves you feeling embarrassed to wear it, treat yourself to an upgrade from Jonval Leather and Furs. Our jackets are unique, beautiful, and offer a timeless style that you can rock for decades. Contact us today to learn more about our current collection.