History

Founded by master tailor Johnson Tam, Johnson Leathers has been a cornerstone of San Francisco’s leather garment industry for over four decades. Johnson immigrated to San Francisco from Hong Kong in 1974, bringing with him expert tailoring skills honed through years of traditional training. His first role in the U.S. leather industry was with the renowned Golden Bear Sportswear in 1976. Just three years later, driven by a commitment to craftsmanship and independence, Johnson launched his own venture — Johnson Leathers

In its early years, the company operated out of a small space on Hyde Street, focusing on contract work and creating custom leather jackets for numerous local shops. As demand for Johnson’s work grew, the first retail location opened at 1808 Polk Street in 1982, providing customers with direct access to the brand’s bespoke creations. In 1988, the business moved to its current location, continuing to offer high-quality, handcrafted leather goods to a loyal and growing clientele.

That same year, Alan Zafrin joined the company as a partner, taking on responsibility for retail operations and daily management, while Johnson remained dedicated to design, tailoring, and production. Their collaboration has helped guide the company through decades of steady growth and creative evolution.

Johnson Leathers is proudly committed to small-batch production, emphasizing quality over quantity. A dedicated team of skilled craftspeople constructs each piece with care, ensuring garments that stand the test of time in both style and durability.

The company has collaborated with notable fashion brands and boutiques such as Comme des Garçons, Beams+, Western River, Scarecrow, Ya-Tah-Hey, and Haven Court. In addition to international partnerships, Johnson Leathers continues to serve a broad range of local San Francisco businesses and provides jackets for several local law enforcement agencies.

At Johnson Leathers, tradition meets craftsmanship. We believe in producing enduring garments with timeless design. Every stitch tells a story — one rooted in precision, integrity, and the spirit of San Francisco.