Newbie with "the Bug" Need Assistance from the Ind

[IndianaGeo]

Hi to All,
First, let me say that I think this site is fantastic. I´ve read quite a few posts on here and the assistance you all provide to each other is really cool to see. Kindred spirits. Everyone seems to "get it" if you know what I mean.

I must confess, I´ve got the bug. I have for years, really, but now it´s just become so acute that I´ve got to do something about it.

With all the options, styles, leathers, firms, etc..It´s mind spinning. So let me tell you what I´m looking for and maybe some of you out there will have a suggestion or two.

Basically, I´m looking for a really durable, good looking jacket that holds up to a beating. With that said, I am thinking either Horse or Goat. I´ve read that Horse is the only naturally waterproof skin, but I´m not so sure. And which hide maintains its colour or ages more gracefully? I don´t know. Maybe you guys can help me?

Also, in my research I´ve heard that G&B makes a fantastic looking and functional jacket. I sort of put them in the category of the TN jackets which, I understand, are pretty bomb proof as well. Between those, I´m thinking of G&B because it´s a little less pricey.

But I´m also considering a Wested. I´m a Chicago suburban guy finding myself in London, England. Wested isn´t all that far for me to travel to to actually try on the goods. I might do that this weekend. But then I´ve read that the Wested´s aren´t quite as sturdy as, say, a G&B. But what if I go with a Wested Horsehide? Would that not be possibly as durable as a G&B goat? Need guidance here as well.

To add to this, I´m not all that keen on artificial linings like elastic or poly this or that. My understanding is the G&B might have a non-100% natural lining. Is this the case? Am I making too much of this? I guess I´d prefer a cotton body interior and a silk sleeve interior. Seems to be the preferred choice.

Lastly, do any of these jackets have interior zip pockets? I would imagine Indy would need an interior map pocket of some sort. Also, which collar type looks best... the narrower one or the wider one? I´m thinking on me the narrower collar might look best. Would that be the ROTLA version? I´m still not clear about this.

I know there´s been tons of discussion in the Jacket category about all of these questions, but if you´d indulge me with your commentary, I´d really appreciate it. I want to pull the trigger on this purchase in the next week or so. Thanks!

P.S. The shoes are next... I hear some guy named Schmitty sells ´em. I´ll try to get in touch with him.

[CM]

Having owned a couple of makes of jacket. If I were to start from scratch I'd go G&B. Screen accurate as I need and strong. In goat it's soft and easy wearing too.

[Swindiana]

It's not always easy asking about the best jacket since most people like their own and would recommend those, and then there are lots of opinions. In the end, you have to decide for yourself and that's not always easy either.

Generally I'd say goat is very sturdy and also naturally water repellant.
I have a Wested goat and couldn't be happier with it, plus you can get it as custom as you like.

Some people have gotten a zippered inside pocket as a custom order through the years. I'd contact Wested regarding this.

Also, living close to Wested sounds great so that you can try it out IRL.

I bet you've run through the archive threads already, but there's really tons and tons of info in there!

Welcome aboard!

Regards,
Swindiana

[Indiana Strones]

Welcome aboard IndianaGeo!!

[IndyBrit]

If your in London you must make a visit. The shop is full of jackets to try on for size. Peter is a gent and you will enjoy the experince. Just call ahead to make an appointment.

I am sure that many Americans and others on this board will envy the opportunity you have- low charges for delivery, no import duty, no sending back if something is not right.

I have a custom LC HH. Tough durable. Perfect fit. It has two zipped pockets which is needed to make the jacket practical- secure for wallets, passorts etc.

Also have a look at the lambskin off the rack. Especially the special offers.You may be tempted to have one while the custom is being made.

It would be great to hear how your visit went. Choose wisely!

[Dre]

Definetely go into wested and try on jackets. I wish I could have just tried on jackets there to get the fit I want. Even if you go to tailors and get measured, the fit can still be off. At least if you can try it on (and see the details/feel the different leathers etc) you can be sure to pick a winner.

[PyramidBlaster]

In choosing my jacket, durability and overall quality were my prime considerations...I went with the G&B in Goat.

I cannot speak more highly about this jacket. I may very well be buried in it! If that isn't a positive endorsement, I don't know what is...

[Doctor_Jones]

Like others said before, just go to Wested. Try some jackets on for size. It's great you live so close by. Good luck with your hunt for a great jacket. I'm sure Peter can provide you with a beauty!

[IndianaGeo]

Hey Gang,
Thanks for all the comments so far. Geeze, I was sooo tempted today to pull the trigger early and call G&B and go with their goat. So much positive I hear about that jacket. Buried in it?! Now THAT´s a testimonial!

So when I came home tonight and found myself pleasantly surprised to have 6 more replies to my post, I had to think again. Yes, why not first check out Wested in person, try a few on, maybe get something custom if possible (although I hear Peter may not be making them right now?)?

Question, does the G&B come with an inside zippered pocket? I think this would be a good feature on any jacket. Also, side warmer pockets... Do Indy Jackets come with this standard or is this an option? I know many A2 purists would gag at the thought. I´m wondering about Indy Jacket people though.

Half the fun of this journey is the trip itself I think...I don´t know what it is about a great jacket that just makes all this research worthwhile (and rather fun too) but it just does! You all sound like a great group. Is there ever an IndyFest or anything of that sort? Just wondering. Hope you´re all having a great day so far. Saturday´s the day I´ll be heading to Wested.

[Michaelson]

Question, does the G&B come with an inside zippered pocket?

No, it doesn't. The Expedition was patterned from a known, existing stunt jacket that was in a private collection on the West coast. They didn't add or detract a thing from that original pattern concept in order to remain 'true' to the original design....or as close as possible and stay within production parameters.

Wested is the only one that adds the zip that I'm aware of, and I'm a HUGE fan of that addition myself.

Indyfest? Did you read this thread?

viewtopic.php?t=24386

They've held a Euro summit every year as well, so watch the events section to see if something might come up in your area.

Regard! Michaelson

[Kt Templar]

I thinks that's great idea.

It really is best to go and look at all the options, you can also decide for yourself if you like the way the jackets are constructed.

They range from the very weight lamb all the way to the heavy cowhide.

Don't be afraid to ask questions.

And you never know... Peter has been known to offer deals to personal callers bearing cash!

I may wander over this Saturday too, apparently some washed goat may be in....

[PyramidBlaster]

Hey, if you're local (like us on the other side of the pond aren't), nothing at all wrong with heading over to Peter's. Certainly wouldn't turn my nose up at a Wested...But I myself would probably go with the goat. personal preference. I wouldn't mind a trip over there myself!!!

It would be a good idea, at the very least to get an idea of fit and sizing....May even go home with one, you never know!

And yes, most Indy jackets have handwarmers. It's pretty standard. Zippered inner pockets, 'Not so much'.

[Nebraska Brad]

IndianaGeo

Living so close to Wested is a golden opportunity to get measured for a custom and to be able to see the various hides up close. Wouldn't hurt to check it out.


-Nebraska

[CM]

Yeah, check them out, try them on. Then get a G&B...


- just joking it's your choice.

[WConly]

I own several Wested's -- Distressed cow (TOD style), Black goat (ROTLA style), Two Lamb (one black, one brown -- LC Style), and a horse hide LC!
I like them all, but the horse hide is the best and distresses naturally very quickly! Everyone likes what they like and goes their own way...which is great. However, I have been very pleased with these jackets! W>

[IndianaGeo]

Thanks for all your help so far. I swear I´m thinking of going all out and just getting two jackets 1) The G&B Goat and 2) a Wested in Horse. I´ll be heading to Wested´s on Saturday and will hopefully get to chat with The Man himself and have a look around.

So does this craving or whatever you want to call it go away after the purchase... or does this "affliction" get worse over time??

[Baldwyn]

Hello, my name is Baldwyn, and it has been 7 years since my last jacket. Actually, I have but two jackets, a Wested Lamb Last Crusade, and a Raiders Expo. I'm thinking of selling both, and trying real hard to explain to my wife that conservation of jackets. 2 out=2 in. I was thinking a Wested Horsehide, and a special offer lamb.

[IndianaGeo]

Hi Folks,
Getting rather psyched up for my Wested visit today. My expectations are sort of running high so I need to keep that in check. I´m hoping to find my ideal jacket, something that fits great, that will be durable, and that when I put it on it makes me "feel" adventurous and ready for anything. I´m pretty luck, really. I remember back in Chicago several years ago pondering the Wested website, the jackets, and thinking that I didn´t want to go through the hassle of ording one, finding out it doesn´t fit, returning it, and all that time/money wasted. So now it´s nice to be able to go there in person and try a number of them out. I´ll be meeting up with another COW member too which will be nice. Will report back findings later. Cheers!