Limited Edition Photographer’s Jacket from Aether Apparel and Leica
Aether Apparel, a Los Angeles-based apparel manufacturer, worked with Leica to create a limited-edition, short run of photographers’ jackets. Only 125 Aether x Leica Reporter Jackets will be created, with a retail price of $795.
The reporter jacket was created with help from renowned Leica photographers, notably Leica ambassadors Mathieu Bitton, Ragnar Axelsson, Cira Crowell, and Misan Harriman, and is intended to allow the user to carry the basics for a day in the field.
“This jacket is the result of countless design discussions starting with Steffen Keil at Leica AG, AETHER’s purpose-driven approach to outerwear, field testing, and guidance from an incredible roster of photographers,” says Aether co-founder Jonah Smith, who, according to the company, also provided input on the design based on his own experience as a photographer.
“We’re happy to have created a jacket that precisely matches the practical elements that photographers require with the sophisticated silhouette that they like. For me, this endeavor is a dream come true because I’ve been using Leica cameras for 25 years.”
According to Aether, the jacket was inspired by Leica’s Reporter line of cameras, which are available in a striking army green color. The Aether jacket features the same hue. Aside from that, the business claims it employed waxed cotton, which offers the jacket natural water repellent properties that complement its seam-sealed structure. Aether also had strategically placed vents for ventilation.
In terms of carrying essentials, the reporter jacket has an internal battery pocket that can hold four camera batteries, soft-lined hand pockets for a camera or lens, a hidden SD card pocket in the collar, and an internal chest pocket that can hold an SD card case. The jacket has an extra-large pocket on the back for storing a tablet or other items. It also comes with a detachable microfiber cloth for lens cleaning.
“We’re committed to evolving the craft of photography and making it more accessible for photographers,” says Mike Giannattasio, President of Leica Camera North America.
“By collaborating with Aether, we’ve developed a device that allows photographers to carry everything they need easily in the field. The Aether x Leica Reporter Jacket blends quality and functionality to enrich the photographer’s journey—which is what is most important to us.”
The 125 limited edition Aether x Leica Reporter Jackets are already sold out.