Every guy should have a leather jacket. Like a tailored suit or great pair of jeans, it's one of those pieces that will last longer than any sort of trend. Plus, leather jackets get even better with age. From shearling lining to sweatshirt hoods, the variety of styles available now is enough to convince any guy he can pull it off. Best yet? You can easily get a quality one without spending more than $1,000. Here are the best budget-friendly investment pieces to consider.
Topman Oversized Biker Jacket
Topman is a great starter place for pieces like these. The faux leather keeps it affordable, and the oversized fit makes it even edgier.
Zara Biker Jacket
Another faux pick. It's not going to last like a real one will, but you can have fun with the color or shape without a huge commitment.
H&M Leather Biker Jacket
H&M is a great place to start on real leather. At just under $300, you can test out where a leather jacket fits into your wardrobe.
Mango Biker Jacket
Another no-frills pick from Mango. This stand collar is a cool detail that changes things up.
DSTLD Leather Moto Jacket
DSTLD's leather jacket is an editor favorite. The soft leather and simple details make it look—and feel—luxe.
Thursday Boot Company Flight Jacket
Thursday Boot Company just started making leather jackets—and they're great. This brown flight jacket is a nod to more vintage styles.
Buck Mason Courtesy Bruiser Moto Jacket
Buck Mason might be known for its tees, but it makes a great leather jacket, too.
The Arrivals Lautner II
Make your leather jacket stand out by getting an unconventional version in a deep hue, like this dark forest green.
AllSaints Renzo Leather Biker Jacket
Allsaints is a good go-to for an easy price with a modern shape.
Belstaff Leather Jacket
Belstaff's jackets are meant for motorcycle riding, but with a look as good as this one, consider the bike optional.
Theory Morvek Leather Jacket
Theory brings its clean lines and uncomplicated structure to the perfect stand-collar leather jacket.
Lth Jkt Dax Shearling Collar
The zipper and collar details don't scream for attention, but they do ensure this jacket stands out.
Bonobos The Leather Bomber Jacket
Dark brown is a classic alternative (or addition) to black.
Saturdays NYC Maury Leather Jacket
If you're looking for the coach's jacket version of a leather jacket—which, honestly, we're surprised isn't more popular—look no further.
Schott NYC '50s Perfecto Moto Jacket
You'd be hard-pressed to get something more classic than a Schott leather jacket. This will never go out of style.
Boss Gordani Aviator Jacket
You can't go wrong with a simple, streamlined aviator.
Polo Ralph Lauren Leather Bomber Jacket
And for the perfect, vintage-inspired kind of leather, this Ralph bomber is king.
This story originally appeared on Esquire.com. Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.