About Nate's Chicago Police Jackets

"We originally got into the business because we made custom leather jackets, and we did police jackets on the side," said Josh Chernoff, president of Nate's Leathers. "When we first started doing it, it wasn't really (for just police)."

"Over time, the police jackets took over more of the custom work we were doing," Chernoff said. Nate's sells more than just leather jackets, offering an array of items for police and security officers.

"Our core business is making the leather police coats for the (Chicago) police department," Chernoff said.
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"For the Chicago police, there are only two styles: Mounted and CPD style," Chernoff said. Nate's also buys used jackets back from police officers.

"When coppers outgrow them, they bring them in and we measure them up and make a new one," Chernoff said.

The jackets are not cheap, but the quality is worth the price (this reporter has had one for 14 years).

"They start at about $250 brand new, and used jackets go for about $100 to $150," Chernoff said. "The coats have been known to last for 30 years."

One thing people don't realize about the jackets is that they are blue and not black. "You also will notice that the leather is tinted blue," Chernoff said. "That's royal blue. That's special leather that is very hard to get dyed in that color. There is only a limited amount." Another odd feature on the jackets are the front pockets, which are sewn shut.

"The pockets were originally sewn shut for two reasons," Chernoff said. "(Police officials) didn't want guys standing around with their hands in their pockets, and if you were to get in a fight with a guy, they can't grab on to the pockets."

According to Chernoff, it's the small features that have been added throughout the years that make Nate's jackets unique.
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Chernoff said.
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"We have a great reputation for leather coats," Chernoff said.

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