Aero Leather Clothing is one of Scotland’s most distinctive manufacturers, a company whose identity is rooted in the faithful recreation of historical leather garments and the disciplined execution of traditional craft. Based in Galashiels in the Scottish Borders—an area long associated with textile production—the company was established in 1981 and has since built an international reputation for producing some of the finest leather jackets in the world.
The house specialises in the reproduction of mid-20th-century flight jackets, military garments, and workwear, drawing directly from original patterns and archival references. Each design reflects a precise understanding of historical construction, ensuring that the garments are not reinterpretations but accurate continuations of earlier forms. This commitment to authenticity extends to the materials used, with Aero working primarily in full-grain horsehide, steerhide, and other robust leathers selected for their strength, character, and ability to age over time.
Production is carried out entirely in Scotland, where each garment is cut, stitched, and finished with close attention to detail. The construction methods employed prioritise durability and structural integrity, resulting in jackets that are intended not merely for wear, but for long-term use. The aesthetic is one of functional clarity—unadorned, purposeful, and defined by the inherent qualities of the material.
Aero Leather Clothing serves a global clientele, including collectors, aviation enthusiasts, and those drawn to garments with a clear historical lineage. Despite this international reach, the company remains firmly anchored in its Scottish workshop, where the continuity of craft is maintained through practice rather than presentation.
What distinguishes Aero is its refusal to dilute its focus. In an industry often driven by fashion cycles, it operates with a different tempo—one defined by accuracy, material integrity, and the enduring appeal of garments made to last. It stands as a rare example of Scottish manufacturing applied to leatherwork at the highest level.
“Founded in 1981, Aero Leather Clothing has become one of the world’s leading makers of reproduction leather jackets, particularly those based on WWII-era flight garments such as the A-2 and RAF styles. Operating from Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, the company is widely respected for its use of heavy, full-grain leathers and its commitment to historical accuracy. Aero has developed a dedicated international following, with its jackets often regarded as among the most authentic and durable reproductions available.” – Modern Scot