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November 16, 2022 4 min read

by Monique Youzwa

Monique has been a full-time freelance writer for over 5 years, plus has a few fiction credits under her belt and is currently working on a novel. When not writing, she spends her time reading, playing video games, hiking, and camping with her husband and daughter.


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Leather jackets come in a wide range of styles, so it's strange to think models as unique as the cafe racer and double rider are interchangeable. To help you distinguish one from the other, let’s take a look at the difference between a cafe racer jacket and a double rider jacket.

Purpose

The double rider jacketis an iconic piece that hasn’t changed much since its inception in 1928, maintaining an almost aggressive look that matches the rumble of a motorcycle's engine. It also has a few features that make it a fantastic choice for riding, including several pockets for gear, a slanted zipper, and a short waist to prevent bunching when you’re sitting.

The cafe racer can also be used for motorcycle riding, though it has a more streamlined design and a banded button-up collar to keep the wind out, making it a better option for shorter trips or racing rather than long, leisurely rides.

Design

The design of these two jackets couldn’t be more different, with varying features and fits to consider before deciding on one. The cafe racer has smooth, straight lines and a slimmer fit, though it accentuates most builds for a flattering look. It has few pockets to maintain the streamlined design and a banded collar. The hardware blends into the coat for a casual, yet classy, look.

The double rider has a striking design, with lots of pockets, flashy hardware, a slanted front zipper, zippered cuffs, large lapels, and epaulets on the shoulders. Even the finish is more noticeable, with a shine that the cafe racer lacks.

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Style

Double rider and cafe racer jackets have varying styles that may not appeal to everyone. The cafe racers have a more casual look, so they can be worn for day-to-day activities. They can also be dressed up a bit with a nice sweater and slacks for dinners or work events.

The bold design of the double rider jacket limits its versatility. It looks fantastic with t-shirts, hoodies, and jeans but isn’t as easy to style beyond that. You can experiment with it beyond street-style clothing, though it likely won’t work with every outfit.

Comfort

When it comes to comfort, it all depends on the type of leather you choose and the fit of the jacket. The cafe racer has a slim design and comes in a variety of materials and lining options, so you can match it to your specifications, no matter what size you are, without risking an unflattering look.

Double riders need a bit more attention when it comes to comfort. The shorter design and bulky pockets don't fit well on all builds, so a custom design is best to ensure it matches your specifications to prevent bunching, especially when sitting. Softer materials, like lambskin, drape better with these types of leather jackets than the more rugged materials, though they also offer less protection in accidents.

Pros and Cons of Cafe Racer Jacket

Cafe racer jackets are sleek, with straight lines and a casual, yet elegant style that can be dressed up or down for various occasions. It isn’t as iconic or noticeable as other leather jackets, and the few pockets offer little storage room, though it looks flattering on almost anyone with the right fit.

Pros and Cons of Double Rider Jacket

The double rider is a classic piece, with eye-catching hardware and detailing that stands out in the crowd. Though the aggressive look is perfect for riding, it isn’t as versatile when it comes to styling and likely won’t fit in at every event. Though it has plenty of pocket storage, this adds bulk to the front that can throw off the look at times.

Cafe racer and double rider jackets

Final Word

Double riders and cafe racers don’t have much in common, though they are both stylish pieces that can add to your wardrobe. For those interested in a streamlined, versatile jacket that can be dressed up or down for any occasion, a cafe racer fits the bill. If you’re looking for an iconic leather jacket that’s perfect for riding or casual wear, the double rider is a phenomenal option.


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