About

Founded in 1979 by Johnson Tam, Johnson Leathers journey began in the heart of San Francisco's creative landscape. What started as a humble venture in a small workshop on Hyde Street quickly blossomed into a renowned establishment, driven by a commitment to quality and tradition.

In 1982, Johnson opened his first retail location on Polk Street, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Johnson Leathers story. As Johnson's reputation for exceptional craftsmanship grew, so did his ambitions. In 1988, he moved to the current location at 1833 Polk Street, where we continue to uphold the values instilled by our founder.

Throughout our forty-five plus years in the industry, Johnson Leathers has earned a strong reputation for our attention to detail and dedication to authenticity. From crafting jackets for esteemed brands like Comme Des Garcons and Nepenthes to supplying law enforcement agencies across the Bay Area, our work embodies a timeless elegance that transcends trends.

At Johnson Leathers, we pride ourselves on preserving the artisanal techniques of the past. Each garment is a testament to the art of handcrafted excellence, with patterns drafted by hand and every piece meticulously cut and sewn in our workshop. While we may not mass-produce, our small production team pours heart and soul into every creation, ensuring that each item is as unique as the individual who wears it.

Our philosophy is simple: to create garments that stand the test of time. We believe in the enduring power of quality craftsmanship, and our goal is to build pieces that become cherished heirlooms, passed down from generation to generation.

Thank you for choosing Johnson Leathers.  We appreciate you!