When motorcyclists describe their gear as “tank-like,” they’re usually talking about one brand: Vanson. This Massachusetts-based company has earned a legendary reputation among riders for producing leather jackets that can withstand the most extreme conditions.
From casual bikers to professional racers, riders consistently describe Vanson jackets as being built like armored vehicles – but what makes them so incredibly durable?
What Makes Vanson Jackets “Tank-Like”?
The foundation of Vanson’s fortress-like reputation lies in its proprietary manufacturing process. “We use pressure and heat to force a lot of waxes into the surface to flatten, smooth, and strengthen,” explains Kim Van der Sleesen, Vanson’s sales manager. This unique process creates leather that’s not only thick but also incredibly dense and protective.
Vanson’s competition weight cowhide measures 1.4-1.5 mm thick, weighing roughly 3.5 ounces per square foot. This isn’t your average motorcycle jacket material. The leather undergoes a specialized tanning process that creates a surface so tough, riders joke that “you could just toss it on the ground, have a tank roll over it, and pick the jacket back up and it would be basically just as fine as it was before”.
Real-World Crash Protection
The most compelling evidence of Vanson’s tank-like protection comes from actual crash testimonials. Recent research shows that wearing proper motorcycle jackets reduces injury risk by significant margins: 23% lower risk of upper body injuries. But Vanson jackets consistently exceed these industry standards.
Professional drag racer Korry Hogan provides perhaps the most dramatic example of Vanson’s protective capabilities. In 2013, Hogan survived a 246 mph crash and 900-foot slide with minimal road rash while wearing his Vanson racing suit. The fact that he walked away from such an extreme high-speed incident speaks volumes about the jacket’s protective properties.
Expert racer Eric “GoGo” Gulbransen, who has accumulated over 60 crashes in his Vanson suit, describes the experience: “I didn’t feel a thing last time I wrecked; in fact, my back felt normal after the crash”. This isn’t isolated testimony – motorcycle forums are filled with similar stories of riders walking away from crashes that would have caused serious injuries in lesser gear.
The Science Behind the Slickness
What makes Vanson jackets particularly effective in crashes is their slick surface treatment. The proprietary waxing process creates leather that resists ‘grabbing’ asphalt during a slide. This is crucial for rider safety – when leather catches on pavement, it can cause the rider to tumble violently rather than slide smoothly.
According to motorcycle safety research, the effectiveness of protective clothing depends heavily on material quality and construction. Vanson’s approach addresses both factors through their specialized leather treatment and meticulous construction standards.
Professional Racing Heritage
Vanson’s tank-like reputation isn’t just marketing – it’s built on decades of professional racing experience. The company holds multiple patents in ventilation and protection technology, developed through direct collaboration with professional racers who demand the highest levels of protection.
Massachusetts track day riders frequently observe that “you see a lot of riders still wearing Vanson suits with scuffs on them from previous crashes”. This durability under extreme conditions has made Vanson the choice of serious racers who need gear that can survive multiple incidents while maintaining its protective properties.
The Investment Factor
While Vanson jackets command premium prices – often $700-1000+ for new models – motorcyclists consistently view them as lifetime investments. The jackets maintain strong resale value, with many selling for 50-70% of retail price even after years of use.
This cost-per-year value proposition becomes compelling when spread over the jacket’s typical 20-30 year lifespan. As one rider noted, “Sure, you could buy brand-new imported leathers for less, but if you could choose what you were wearing when you crash, you’d probably want to be in something like a Vanson.”
Why Riders Choose Tank-Like Protection
The rise of ATGATT (All The Gear, All The Time) culture has created demand for equipment that can handle worst-case scenarios. Vanson’s tank-like reputation attracts riders who understand that the best-looking jacket is one that keeps them safe.
The psychological benefits are also significant. Riders report feeling more confident and secure knowing they’re wearing gear that can handle whatever the road throws at them. This confidence translates into better riding performance and greater enjoyment of the experience.
