In my research of Leather community history, I have often run across references to Langlitz Leathers as one of the most important contributors to the classic Leatherman look. Langlitz has been manufacturing motorcycle jackets since 1947 and they have not changed much at all about how they do it. Legend has it that the founder, Ross Langlitz, first got on a motorcycle in the eighth grade.
Here is a reference to the company in a 1953 issue of MOTORCYCLIST
“As the firm has grown from the basement days at Ross’s home, it has moved three times, each time to a larger salesroom and workshop, each time picking up more employees. Ross is the first to tell you that custom work will never permit any big establishment, for the moment you get into the big league of the garment trade, you cease to be custom made; he knows from experience that motorcycle leathers should never be mass produced and that most riders appreciate having their leathers fit them, not merely an “average size”.”
We stopped by the shop 15 minutes after closing time, just to peek in the window. Scott saw us, invited us in, and let me take photographs of their beautiful shop. We also tried on some of the jackets– silky smooth and gorgeous craftsmanship.
Here’s Scott next to some jackets that the shop has recently repaired.
Another fellow that greats you near the door.
Their new off the rack selection (mens).
Their new off the rack selection (womens).
Door to dressing room.
Photos.
Production area.
Leather storage.
Very cool place. Many thanks to Scott for staying late to show us around!
The Langlitz web site is currently being redesigned. However, if you are interested in receiving a print catalog, just send you mailing address to: catalog (at) Langlitz (dot) com
Leland Carina
LelandCarina.com
[...] wrote an article and posted photos of Langlitz Leather in Portland, Oregon for Leatherpage.com. [...]