First Manufacturing Women’s Iris Jacket Review: Good for Curvy Girls?

The iris leather jacket from First Manufacturing is an excellently crafted classic-style motorcycle jacket for women. Launched in spring 2017, this new arrival exemplifies First’s 30+ years of producing high-quality leather outerwear direct to consumers at reasonable prices.

With its timeless asymmetric zippered front and snapped lapels reminiscent of a vintage perfecto, the Iris effortlessly melds function and fashion. Its buttery naked cowhide leather has a beautifully broken-in feel and matte finish that will only get better with age.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best leather motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!

While not packed with advanced technical features, this feminine take on an iconic silhouette delivers style and quality at a price rivaling jackets costing far more.

Construction and Materials

• 1.2mm naked cowhide leather with a light matte finish
• Cotton mesh inner lining
• YKK zipper front with snap lapels
• Two lower zippered pockets
• One snap belt loop
• Interior breast pocket
• Slight pink accents on the collar and lapels
• No included armor

The Iris sports First’s **signature 1.2mm naked *cowhide,* prized for its supple feel and inherent abrasion resistance.

The leather has a beautifully broken-in quality with a light matte finish that avoids overt glossiness. All hardware, including the front YKK zipper and snaps, have a tastefully brushed antiqued finish that blends nicely without flashy accents.

The inner lining is a basic cotton mesh material. While not exceptionally plush, it allows good airflow from the underarm gussets and zippered front.

The only included storage are two zippered lower pockets, a snap belt loop, and a small inner breast pocket.

Subtle feminine touches include light pink accents on the collar and lapel lining. These provide a dash of color without being overly flashy.

Fit and Sizing

• Available in women’s sizes XS to 5XL
• The size chart accurately matches the measurements
• Classic moto jacket cut

The Iris is available in women’s sizes ranging from XS up to 5XL, accommodating a wide variety of frames. According to the size chart, a size small fits a 38-40″ chest and 28-30″ sleeve length.

I had my colleague Lucy, who measures 36″ chest and 28″ sleeve, try a size small. With her 5’8″ 140lb athletic build, the size small was a great match and allowed comfortable layering room underneath.

The Iris has a flattering feminine cut while retaining the classic moto jacket silhouette. It tailored Lucy’s natural curves without restrictive tightness. The sleeves were long enough to accommodate her monkey arms.

The only potential fit quirk is the need for a rear gusset or pleats. When reaching forward, the back can feel snug if you have broad lats or a curvier frame. Otherwise, the Iris allows good mobility.

SIZE	CHEST (IN)	WAIST (IN)
XS	35-37	31-32
SM	38-40	33-34
MD	40-42	35-36
LG	43-44	37-39
XL	45-47	40-42
2XL	48-50	43-46
3XL	50-53	46-49
4XL	54-56	49-52
5XL	57-59	53-55

Features and Details

Asymmetric Perfecto Styling

The Iris mimics the time-honored asymmetric zippered perfecto style but with a softer feminine flair. The collar shape, diagonal zipper line, and snap lapels are instantly recognizable throwbacks to the classic moto jackets of yore.

Flattering Quilted Shoulders

Uniquely shaped quilt stitching at the shoulders adds subtle femininity and visual interest. The front quilting follows the slope of the lapel and helps shape the shoulder.

Pink Accents On the Collar and Lapel

Pops of pink on the collar lining and inner lapel provide another distinctly feminine touch. It’s noticeable when flipped up but not overtly flashy. An all-black color option is a nice alternative.

Quality Hardware Details

The Iris uses antiqued metal zippers and snaps that blend attractively with the leather’s matte finish. Little touches like the rivets and buttons avoid gaudy contrast. The hardware has quality and durability to match the leather itself.

Comfort and Protection

With no included armor, the Iris provides impact protection solely from its substantial 1.2mm cowhide leather.

The lack of venting also limits cooling airflow. But the light mesh lining aids breathability and comfort in warmer weather.

The Iris works best as a lightly insulating urban cruiser leather jacket or a stylish off-bike outfit. For hardcore riding, I’d recommend pairing it with armor and layering appropriate clothing underneath for weather conditions. Within its intended scope, it excels.

While not packed with protection or venting, the Iris provides a versatile style at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for the fashion-conscious rider who won’t push hardcore sport riding limits.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Beautifully crafted, substantial naked cowhide leather
• Classic asymmetric perfecto style with a feminine twist
• Clean, antiqued hardware matches the leather finish
• Accurate size chart with a wide range
• Reasonable pricing for the quality

Cons

• No included armor
• Limited venting and breathability
• Lack of rear gusset may impede mobility
• Pink accents may not suit all tastes

The Bottom Line

The new Iris from First Manufacturing checks all the boxes for riders seeking a stylish, everyday-wearable leather moto jacket.

With quality construction and materials that belies its reasonable price, it provides a sleek look with a touch of femininity. Just don’t expect hardcore protection or venting.

The Iris hits a sweet spot within its genre between quality, comfort, protection, and value. It’s an easy recommendation for urban fashion-conscious lady riders wanting a leather icon with everyday versatility.

Here are 5 FAQs with answers about the First Manufacturing Women’s Iris Leather Jacket:

What type of leather is the Iris made from?

The Iris is constructed from First Manufacturing’s signature 1.2mm naked cowhide leather. This leather is appreciated for its supple feel and inherent abrasion resistance.

Does the Iris have armor?

No, the Iris does not have any included armor in the elbows or shoulders. Its impact protection comes solely from the substantial 1.2mm cowhide leather construction.

How is the sizing on the Iris jacket?

The Iris uses an accurate size chart ranging from XS to 5XL. A size small correctly fits my colleague Lucy, who has a 36” chest and 28” sleeve length. The jacket allows room for layering without being overly baggy.

What colors is the Iris available in?

The Iris is only available in classic black, with light pink accents on the collar and lapel lining. An all-black color option without pink accents would be a great alternative.

Is the Iris a warm winter riding jacket?

With its leather construction and lack of venting, the Iris is lightly insulating and best suited to warmer weather riding. For cold conditions, you’ll want to layer warm mid-layers underneath. It’s an ideal urban cruiser jacket.

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