There's nothing cooler than a leather jacket. Maybe it's because it gives off the impression that you could have pulled up to dinner on your Harley or that you just spend the day out in the countryside practicing falconry. Who knows. Whatever it is, something about the material, the silhouette, the entire vibe, just exudes confidence.

I decided that in order to properly do leather jackets justice, I would need to consult a few of my friends to get their take on the style. I mean as a woman, I can tell you that a man in a leather jacket is sexy, but it's not up to me to decide how a guy should wear one. So I spoke to NYC-based Kevin Shahroozi, stylist and founder of his eponymous brand, who simply believes that styles "are becoming more creative and also androgynous," meaning options abound. I also checked in with a finance bro and self-proclaimed fashion consultant who shall be referred to as "Rush" and who insists that "most men have the misconception that they are not a 'leather jacket guy' despite it also being true they've secretly always wanted to look like Top Gun's Maverick or Indiana Jones....Men who wear leather jackets are making an active choice to be noticed, and it's about where your boldness takes you when you finally buy one."

Rush is right; despite the creative boldness that the jackets exude, leather jackets can be intimidating. That's part of the reason they project such confidence when actually worn. Once mastered, the leather jacket becomes an extension of self, its own expression of boldness. So how do you master the leather jacket? Well, to begin, you must first understand that there are multiple shapes and styles. The trick is to opt for a material and silhouette that suits you. Perhaps it's Nili Lotan's classic bomber, RtA's two-toned nylon and leather piece, or Allsaints' biker staple. Whichever option you choose, make sure that it feels personal, and know that you will have it forever.

Seriously, my sister still wears my late grandfather's 70-year-old brown leather jacket when she goes out in Boston. The importance of a good leather jacket is that it will transcend time. Twenty years from now, you still will be wearing it, the patinated leather simply enhancing the beauty of the jacket. Don't waste a minute longer putting off the inevitable—you will get a leather jacket and you will love it now, and for years to come. And if you need a little help shopping, here are 12 of the best on the market today.

Quince

onequince.com

$199.90

Well if it's 100 percent leather, we aren't going to argue with that. Plus, this is an unreal steal.

Banana Republic

gapfactory.com

$380.00

We love a leather jacket that's under $500, especially when it looks like it could cost triple. The faded leather on this is exquisite; seriously, everyone's sleeping on Banana Republic these days.

The Kooples

bloomingdales.com

$1030.00

The Kooples brings a slim-fitted biker jacket to the market, but with a twist. The inside is lined with leopard print—playful, edgy, and an absolute necessity.

Nili Lotan

nililotan.com

$2195.00

Nili's bomber -style jacket is a perfect introduction into the style, as it's not too sharp, but also has just a little hint of rebellion.

ALLSAINTS

nordstrom.com

$599.00

A style named after one of my best friends, ALLSAINTS delivers a leather jacket at a *more* affordable price point.

Sandro

farfetch.com

$1120.00

Another bomber style, this jacket is so simple yet elegant. We love Sandro's quality, and they make clothing that you will really last.

Golden Goose

farfetch.com

$2960.00

In case you didn't know, leather jackets come in more than just black. If you need proof, just check out Golden Goose's chestnut shearling coat.

Theory

Mr. Porter

$895.00

Supple black leather with ribbed trims, the construction of this jacket is a Theory specialty. Plus, through it over some dark wash denim, add a pair of cool sneakers, and you are good to go tear up town.

Zadig & Voltaire

zadig-et-voltaire.com

$668.00

Don't worry about anyone else coppin' your fit; this crinkled leather texture of the jacket is so unique, and totally gives off the "yeah, I just rolled out of bed looking like this" vibe.

Alexander McQueen

nordstrom.com

$5190.00

Business in the front, party in the back. Or I guess, motocross star in the front, country singer in the back.

RtA

rtabrand.com

$1195.00

Another one of our favorites, the mix between leather and nylon in this jacket makes it an easy wear. Not too harsh, this piece can be thrown over just about any outfit.

Ksubi

ksubi.com

$899.00

Ksubi's jackets are just as fabulous as their denim. And honestly, name a style more iconic than this one.