Is The Schott Perfecto Too Short?!

[@Panzerfaust9161]

I recently came across a brand spanking new Schott 418 that was hanging in someone’s closet since the eighties and after a half a bottle of “Leather Honey” I brought it back to life and started to wear it. Man!! I could not stop looking in the mirror and wondering if such a short jacket looked good on me. I was really self conscious about it until now. You my friend have put that short 418 on my body and made it look good. Thanks for setting me at ease about wearing this hidden gem of Schott’s wonderful history.

[@DudsByDel]

Not familiar with the model but what a great story. Congrats on the find and happy that I could help!

[@themancaveclub]

Exactly! More recently, some makers are now installing two-way zippers, which for someone who rides, I love!

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah would be great for the longer models I think!

[@CSiri-cc2hq]

Great video. The 618 rocks so hard. I've got the 618hh and absolutely love it

[@DudsByDel]

Hey I really appreciate it. It’s just a great jacket. I wear mine open almost all the time and don’t think about the length at all

[@TED1082]

You made me love my schott again! Great Video!

[@DudsByDel]

Hey man, that’s great news

[@JonathanGrandt]

I had a short leather jacket once and always felt it was too short. I do have a somewhat longer torso for my height. I ended up selling it and buying a longer fitting jacket and never stopped regretting it. I miss that shorter jacket. It was very versatile and easy to drive in. I wish schott would make more shorter jackets. But they keep pumping out these 26.5” long and skinny things.

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah I’m with you, even if sometimes I wish this jacket was like 1/2 an inch longer heh

[@willyegger4488]

Hey Duds, thank you for discussing this issue so thoroughly. I personally love the short design and have no problem with it. And - yes you can really wear the Schott's perfecto in exactly the way how like to wear it, and it always looks good, especially because the back part is usually designed a bit longer than the front. Very good and helpful revue! I enjoyed watching. Keep on rocking your leathers. Peace and kindest regards from Switzerland

[@DudsByDel]

@@willyegger4488 thanks Willy for your thoughtful response. I really do think it’s a better length than naysayers realize!

[@willyegger4488]

@@DudsByDel Hey again, I think so too, and you are very welcome. Peace and kindest regards.

[@rickhunter6667]

For me personally I love short jacket, I have sold all of my long jackets only keep short ones, longer jackets for me look like father or grandpa’s clothes. There is a other benefit of short jackets that allows me to show off my HTC leather belts, by the way I have a huge collection of HTC (Hollywood trading company ) belts. And short jacket can make your body proportion looks much better even though your body proportion are not that good.

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah man I’m with ya. I think some long styles can be great. But short jackets are quite versatile

[@dizzywehby3442]

I have a schott 118 i wore since the mid 80s i love it but its way way too short i dk wth to do

[@DudsByDel]

@@dizzywehby3442 hmm. Schott does sell a long 118 if you’re tall and really need the extra length

[@mramone5933]

For a man with a shorter torso and 5'8", I'm so glad the jacket is shorter! I have a muscular build and wear size large in tops, but with most clothes they proportionally make the length longer as the sizes go up. Basically, my length is more like a small or medium but my 44" chest is too tight so I have to opt for a large and have it be too long and drapey. The fact that my 618 that is 44" to fit my frame is cut shorter so it doesn't drape too long is really a blessing!

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah it's a great fit for a shorter torso. I’m 5’9” but less muscular so I can do smaller size- I can imagine it being terrible trying to find the right length at that chest size

[@scottkasper6378]

The schott looks so cool. I just never feel like I can pull it off

[@DudsByDel]

I’ve had folks tell me I look like a banker or a bald baby 😂 Honestly just wearing it is all you gotta do.

[@sgm1534]

What size are you wearing and how tall are you?

[@DudsByDel]

@@sgm1534 hey Santiago G, this is a 40. I’m 5’9” 175 pounds with most over a 40” chest. If you’re buying from Schott, could you use my link: www.schottnyc.com/products/steerhide-perfecto.htm?partner=MrFrown

[@jake_stone]

Great video Del! Interesting to hear your perspectives and see the different looks. I'm torn. As a shorter guy (5'7"), I think the shorter jacket would probably do better for my build. That said, I'm a sloppy casual American and actually preferred what you called the "sloppier" look. I guess maybe I tend to fix that by tailoring all my clothes to be extra fitted to look less sloppy, but I've found that to be much harder (impossible?) with leather jackets.

[@DudsByDel]

Thanks Jake. You have some options. You may consider a jacket from one of the Japanese makers as they tend to make a trimmer fit for the Japanese body. Or go custom, and indicate very trim chest and hem measurement to keep the jacket close to body while unzipped.

[@CSiri-cc2hq]

Go for the 618 Mate! My height is 5.7 too and the 618 fits perfectly

[@rickycaruana8925]

I agree whith rick hunter you right my man👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@DudsByDel]

And here I am agreeing with Rick and Ricky 😃

[@larrikinlancer685]

Yeah, I've got an older model Schott 118 that's about 22" long at the front, the newer ones seem slightly longer at 26" at the front. Wondering if doing that switch to a newer model jacket at the front would be better but maybe not. I'm 5'7 and I ride a harley and like the jacket for it's utility.

[@DudsByDel]

Good question. I’ve been thinking about getting a new one for comparison sake. Or perhaps requesting specifications from Schott customer service

[@Arreldee]

I personally don't like short jackets and in my Schott 626 I get the best of both world: the Perfecto look with the added length that I like yet it doesn't look floppy when opened up as it is slim fit. Highly recommended! PS: not for bikers though, it is a fashion-oriented jacket and wears tight, it has no underarms footballs.

[@DudsByDel]

I suppose height plays a big part too. I’m 5’9”. How tall are you?

[@Arreldee]

​@@DudsByDel I am actually shorter at 5"8. However I must stress that to wear the 626 one has to be lean/slim with no beer belly and love handles, the 626 is unforgiving in that regard. Have a look at that review by a guy who is 5"10 and wears it very well! Long-ish jackets don't only look good on 6 footers! :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z6q8dZt7r9V_oM0

[@Theeezfoo77]

What size is that?

[@DudsByDel]

Hey man it’s a 40. I’m 5’9” 175 lbs just over a 40” chest

[@ibbjos08]

The Schott looks way better than the Johnson IMO. Good video Del, I'm now going to be less conscious about my Lost Worlds HH vest which is pretty short.

[@DudsByDel]

Thanks man! Enjoy your vest, short is good! To be fair to the Johnson Leather, I really like it zipped up. But not open.

[@Dreyno]

Jeans like Levi’s 501s, Wrangler Cowboy Cut and Lee Riders etc. are all cut to sit at the waist rather than the hips. Some people buy them and wear them on their hips which leads to the ass hanging look.

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah I agree (although wranglers do have a bit higher rise than the others).

[@AndresCuervoArt]

Wish Schott perfecto had longer sleeves, also pockets for armour, the button for the belt buckle should be standard like the 118 or 519 to not wiggle around and a zip off flannel thermal vest for cold weather vs hot weather inside mesh. When riding my wrist gets burned by the sun between the gloves and jacket sleeve is 2cm of skin uncovered, don’t know why they come so short it’s easier to shorten sleeve than to make it longer. Also you tend to get hot or cold riding with it, it’s uncomfortable to bring a thick shirt and take it off specially the sleeves become uncomfortable when riding. Other than that the Schott is a perfect riding jacket and will become a second skin with age

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah Vanson tends to have sleeves that are a little longer than Schott, if you’re looking for a good off-the-rack alternative. Agree about layering being annoying at times…but what else can ya do? Thanks for the comment

[@kevinwalsh9483]

i wear schott for over 40 years. i love the 613 one star because it doesnt have snaps on the collar. i hate it because it is 1 inch shorter than the 118!!!!!!

[@DudsByDel]

Yes I wonder how a 118 size down would work for me. Could kinda go for the little bit extra length. Trying to embrace the shortness of the 618 though!

[@kevinwalsh9483]

hi again del. dont you think that for what schott now charges, we should have a length option? i know that the 118 offers 26 or 28 inches. my schott style 141 which cost me 600.00 at a store on west 8th st. now costs @@DudsByDel 950.00 before tax!!!

[@chris101gray3]

For me at 6ft 1", they are unwearable. Also when I find similar jackets that do fit me well, I cut off the belts and epaulettes. I really don't like the look of them and the belt particularly jangles and gets in the way a lot which is a deal breaker for me. I personally think they look way better without belts and epaulettes.

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah a lot of dudes like the cleaner look. TJ from The Shop Vancouver is tall and still wears short jackets, I think length is very subjective to personal preference

[@MaulinAgrawal1217]

I prefer it short myself. I know there’s a 26” length, but I prefer the 25” length.

[@burgersuperking]

I got Saint Laurent biker jacket, and for my size armholes are SO SMALL you can barely move in it, you need to be very emaciate to wear it, had so size up, but bigger size is slightly too long, and appears like Schott 118. I liked how cropped Saint Laurent jacket was. Now I consider getting Schott 618, but its hard to forget how fancy Saint Laurent or Celine jackets are

[@DudsByDel]

Haven’t handled those brands but I’ve liked the look. You might prefer the 613s or even 613sh which has a cleaner presentation on the back behind the arms compared to the 618. And the 613sh is in their horsehide if you like a shinier leather

[@DudsByDel]

For lighter leather the 519 or 626 are good choices but the jackets are longer

[@burgersuperking]

@@DudsByDel thanks

[@sofakingphat8087]

After trying on the 613 and 618 I’m not real happy. I’m a little tall, so I feel like I’m wearing some sort of belly shirt. About three more inches and it would be a perfect jacket. Otherwise you look like you’re on your way to some sort of gay bar. Not that there’s anything wrong with that but it kind of fits that look. Maybe the blue oyster bar.

[@DudsByDel]

Hah. I’m 5’9 and it still feels a little short. Have you tried the 118 or one of their other longer models

[@sofakingphat8087]

@@DudsByDel no I didn’t try on the 118. I was in New York for a business trip. I had a little bit of time, and when I went in, I told them I was looking for something that was heavy and would fit the region I live in, Indiana. they only showed me the 613 and 618. I usually wear a trenchcoat, but I wanted something that would fit in the spring and fall. I am almost a foot taller than you. Is there any other jacket maker that makes leather apparel to order? I’ve been referred to Bates, leather and Langlitz. I don’t have a year to weigh for Bates leather. It seems to be a year waiting list. I am a 40 in the chest. The length of my arms is another factor lol. I can dunk a basketball without hardly hopping. I may be stock worth getting one tailored. I like the 613 and 618. Not sure of shot. Does any kind of tailor work. I am thinking that, another 3 inches would be perfect.

[@DudsByDel]

@@sofakingphat8087 Schott does (or at least used to) do custom work. There are a bunch of quality makers in roughly the same cost zone as a new Schott that will do custom work without a year wait. Aero, Field Leathers, Lewis Leathers in UK. Johnson Leathers in San Francisco. If you’re interested in Aero, Thurston Bros will send you a fit jacket to get your sizing nailed down.

[@DudsByDel]

Vanson does custom work and it can be very good but I’ve also heard it can be hit or miss, and their work time line may be unreliable

[@DanielCorellCabo]

118 L

[@1990-t1j]

It doesn't look that short. I'd prefer it a bit longer, though, but not 2.5''. They can certainly be too long, even from a fashion standpoint only. Excellent video.

[@DudsByDel]

@@1990-t1j thanks man. Often feels like Goldilocks trying to get things just right…I’ve accepted that some styles are just gonna fit a certain way and go with it. And that short length can be great!

[@georgeleorgebeorge2354]

It’s not short if you pair it with a pair of 50s Levis with a proper rise.

[@DudsByDel]

Completely agree! I mention that in the video.

[@georgeleorgebeorge2354]

@@DudsByDel will watch it properly when i have some time. I’m in the market for one of these. my jeans all have a classic rise, so no problem there. Thanks!

[@Erhogz]

Yes, those jackets are too short and you will be fked up in windy autumn/spring weather. Especially if you are tall enough like not a 170cm- gnome. But in this case just search for another model of motor-jacket coz almost every brand have short and a bit longer ones and even very long ones. Just look and sizing and wear prior bought and you will be fine.

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah so I think it’s a matter of preference. Even Schott sells longer jackets. Much of the reason for the shortness of the classic style is that pants were worn higher back in the day

[@Erhogz]

@@DudsByDel Yes I agree. I could only add that due to this style of jacket are directly came from motorcycle culture that mean they were made to be comfortable while you seat on your chopper so the shorter jacket will fit perfectly due to your body position while longer one wouldn't fit. But when you are standing or walking your body is straightens up which makes those jacket feels short. ANyway if your goal is to wearing them casualy and regardless of weather on the street I'd recommend taking a bit longer one. So I could only advice a people who are thinking about getting their first one - If you plan wearing it in a sunny days or to the bar etc without long walking on the street when it's coldy - take any would fit your silhouette and have a lighter weight otherwise check for a one which will cover your waist which is depends on type of pants you're wearing most.

[@robertproulx9338]

Longer looks goofy on average height guys. Also, tuck the t-shirt in. Not tucking it in makes you look shorter and looks sloppy hanging out. I'm a lot more conscious of these things since I'm 5'8" and my wife is a skinny 6' model.

[@DudsByDel]

@@robertproulx9338 hah some good points! I typically prefer to tuck in too

[@waynekoren828]

Short and sexy. I used to feel weird about it, but i got a 219 50's style model in waxy cowhide that is 2" longer. The shorter 613 One Star is way more badass.

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah it’s different than folks often expect. But short is good!

[@fatsquirrel2554]

Not short enough in my opinion and the arms could be longer.

[@DudsByDel]

Length is a tough one!

[@blacksharkpro3youtube]

Funny how it looks for a man wearing a bigger leather jacket for his height. Those biker jacket length that falls in the middle of backside.

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah clearly I prefer shorter jacket, especially for the classic biker/motorcycle styles. Obviously a lot of folks wear jeans lower on the waist than they used to but I think the bigger culprit is people preferring to wear long, untucked shirts

[@blacksharkpro3youtube]

@@DudsByDel Asthetic wise, shorter jacket makes your legs look longer, the opposite goes with a bigger longer biker jacket.

[@Arturo27666]

The people who criticize have no idea about the rule of thirds or proportions

[@DudsByDel]

True dat!

[@rl6319]

618 is not short on me. I’m 510. I wear Wrangler cowboy cut jeans which come up to your belly button lol

[@DudsByDel]

@@rl6319 haha perfect

[@moustachio334]

Rule of thirds works for clothing. Short jackets just look better

[@DudsByDel]

Heck yeah!

[@DanielCorellCabo]

I personallt think that perfectos in general look better on the short side. I don't like long perfectos. In my opinion, 618 looks better than 519 on you. Unless you were a very tall boy l didn't get a 626 o 519. 618 or 118 are the real thing!

[@DudsByDel]

Yeah I agree. Wish I still had the 519 to do a complete compare video

[@DanielCorellCabo]

@@DudsByDel l have a 618 un size 46. Can l send you some pictures? I'd like your opinion. I have broad shoulders and back. I tried on a 618 in size 44 and was very tight and short. I love that jacket but l'm not sure about the fit...

[@DudsByDel]

@@DanielCorellCabo sure, will probably be easiest to send to me on Instagram. I have the same handle there- dudsbydel

[@mikepersia5362]

If you don’t actually ride a motorcycle then you’ll never appreciate the design!!

[@harleydavidson8460]

whoever made the statement of schott perfecto being "too short" shouldnt own a schott

[@robertproulx9338]

True! My schott Dur-O-Jac is shorter and I like it better. 1 complaint about my 618 is the arms at the elbow are too skinny. My arms are well under 20” these days and it’s taken some time and effort to stretch them out. Anyone else have this issue. This isn’t a problem with my Schott 626VN or my Dur-O-Jac (made in 1992).

[@machoprotegido5607]

To me it's actually not short enough

[@DudsByDel]

Is it a style preference or are you a shorter guy?

[@machoprotegido5607]

@@DudsByDel Style preference. I like the Ike Jacket look

[@DiscoFang]

The PeeWee Herman of jacket looks.

[@DudsByDel]

lol I have no idea how to interpret that 😂 and I’ve watched a fair bit of Pee Wee Herman

[@kurtsalm2155]

The jacket is not too short. You are too tall.

[@DudsByDel]

Hah! True true

[@michaelpena6188]

Size up!

[@DudsByDel]

If I wanted to layer more I would!

[@pjofurey6239]

I got rid of my perfecto ,it was way too short , I’m a biker and see anyone who wears leather motorcycle jackets and doesn’t have a motorcycle as a hilarious poseur and pretty much irrelevant , there are exceptions of course.RAMONES

[@DudsByDel]

You’re entitled to that opinion but I don’t ride and like em. I have friends that do and that’s cool too. Now if I was giving advice for what to wear on the bike that would be real dumb. Gotta agree on the ramones, all time cool. Anyways have a good one man

[@darkestfugue]

its too short, there is the answer to your question, firstly its not a real bikers jacket, its a leather jacket that looks like an old 50s style biker jacket, real biker jackets today are armored inside, they have back shields and armor in the arms, many arent even leather, theyre made of tough man made materials, so making it too short like that to me is ridiculous, the arms are also way too baggy in comparison to the slim fit of the body, its still not a bad jacket and looks good on you but i am an ocd mofo when it comes to this stuff especially when it is that expensive, i would rather have the boda skins kay michaels jacket over this all day every day

[@DudsByDel]

Sounds like we have a few things going on here. 1) it’s not a jacket that looks like an old 50s style. It is in fact a style from the 50s. 2) of course motorcycle safety has come a long way since then. I’m not advocating to wear this jacket or making any safety suggestion here. But the style of this jacket is informed by its intended function of riding motorcycles. That being said, I don’t wear it for riding. I just like the style 3) arm size / jacket fit / look at the length / etc are all subjective and I like them all. You are free to not like it but it’s not universal to say these things are wrong. So I’d agree that it’s too short for your preference, but the next guy may have an entirely different take. In my experience receiving comments and talking with other folks, body and sleeve length tend to be the most variable according to personal preferences 4) price is an understandable concern but I find that the large used market makes it easy to find popular Schott models are serious discounts. I paid $350 for this jacket. 5) generally, did you watch the video? I compare the shortness of this jacket to a longer cross zip style so folks can see what happens when the jacket is unzipped (the longer one gets floppy and bell shaped)

[@darkestfugue]

@@DudsByDel hi ,you have actually changed my mind on some of the things i said, i like a jacket to be just below my trouser belt line which is not that much longer than yours is, your video inspired me to leave in a biker racer style hybrid jacket i have to be shortened, i felt it was a bit long but seeing your vid made me get off my ass and leave it in, i think it will look better when i get it back, about your other jacket i just think its a more relaxed fit on you all over, it looks a little big on you compared to the shott, i prefer the fit of the shott as im very slim and if clothes arent fitted on me it makes look even thinner than i am and i dont like that, anyway thanks for posting as it made me rethink a few things