Leather jackets are some of the most versatile outerwear options you have at your disposal. They go with just about anything, can make an otherwise casual outfit look dressy, and showcase your personality better than even the most unique hoodie or sweater. But when they’re brand new, they may not be as comfortable as you’d like. Rather than letting your coat languish in your closet, break it in. Here are a few tips to help you do just that.

Wear It Often
The best way to break a leather jacket in is to wear it. This ensures that the jacket forms to your body and the way you move rather than arbitrarily stretching out in ways that may not make it more comfortable. If you’re worried about the jacket feeling too tight or restrictive, start by wearing it around your home. This way, you can take it off as needed without having to feel uncomfortable. After a few sessions, the leather will start to soften and you’ll be able to wear it for longer periods. And after a few weeks, your jacket will be tailored to your body and should fit you like a glove.

Roll It Into a Ball
Rolling your jacket into a tight ball and massaging it is an effective way to get the leather to soften up. You’re effectively stretching the leather in different ways and asking the material to move more than it otherwise would. But there’s a catch. You risk introducing wrinkles into the material. These wrinkles may fade over time, but they can make your jacket look less pristine and more like something you picked up at a garage sale.

Hang It Up
When your jacket is new, hanging it up between wears can be a great way to speed up the break-in process. Hanging it up in your closet lets the weight of the material stretch against the hanger. Depending on where you’re finding it uncomfortable, that stretch may be enough to make your jacket something you want to wear each day. Keep in mind that you’ll want to use a thick contoured hanger to reduce the risk of unwanted thin spots in the leather or changes to the shape that could impact the way it looks on you.

Punch It
If all else fails, you can always punch your jacket. The impact from your fists can help tenderize the leather, much like hammering on a thick steak can soften the meat and make it easier to chew. Just be aware that this method may not be as effective as wearing your jacket. And it may introduce unwanted changes in shape to the leather. 

Be Patient With Your New Jacket
The best way to ensure that your new leather jacket fits you properly is to make sure it’s tailored to fit your unique body. And the best way to break it in is to wear it as often as possible. At Jonval, our team is here to help. We offer beautiful leather jackets that are designed to fit your body properly and comfortably the day you take them home. And our team can alter any existing jackets you have so you can wear them with confidence. Contact us today to discuss your needs.