Aether and Leica unveiled a darkened variant of their photographer jacket, sparking a flurry of purchases within an hour.
The Aether x Leica Reporter Jacket Monochrom is a groundbreaking collaboration between premium outerwear specialist Aether and legendary camera manufacturer Leica. This black iteration of the original Reporter Jacket is inspired by Leica's monochromatic cameras, offering a stylish and practical wearable camera bag designed to meet the needs of photographers on the move.
### Design
The jacket's design is a sleek, all-black masterpiece that mirrors Leica’s Monochrom cameras. High-quality technical fabrics ensure durability, weather resistance, and a refined look, often combining lightweight, weatherproof textiles with subtle, matte finishes to avoid glare and reinforce the monochromatic theme. Discreet Leica and Aether logos maintain the minimalist style characteristic of Leica’s design philosophy.
### Functionality
The Reporter Jacket Monochrom doubles as a wearable camera bag, featuring specially designed compartments and pockets to hold camera bodies, lenses, and accessories. Strategically placed padded compartments allow photographers quick access to their gear without removing the jacket. Interior sections are reinforced with soft, shock-absorbing materials to protect expensive camera equipment from bumps and impacts.
Some versions offer modular or adjustable storage options, allowing the wearer to customize pockets or inserts according to shooting needs. The jacket provides protection against the elements, ensuring that both the wearer and gear stay dry and comfortable. Designed with photographic activity in mind, it accommodates active movement and safe gear carriage without bulk.
### Additional Features
The Reporter Jacket Monochrom has multiple pockets, including a specialized battery pocket, SD card pocket, soft-lined front pockets for camera/lens, and an oversized back pocket for tablet. Hidden grommets under the arms provide breathability, making it adaptable for photographers who frequently transition between environments. The jacket also features a detachable microfiber cleaning cloth for added utility.
### Availability and Price
The Aether x Leica Reporter Jacket Monochrom is available now from Aether's website. The price of the Reporter Jacket Monochrom is $750, $45 cheaper than the 2024 version. The Reporter Jacket Monochrom is a limited edition variant, making it an exclusive addition to any photographer's wardrobe.
The shift to monochrome mirrors the industry's own transition from the romantic image of the conflict photographer to today's diverse creative ecosystem. This jacket transforms a photographer's essential field garment into something approaching tactical apparel art, embodying the aesthetic and functionality inspired by Leica’s iconic monochromatic camera line.
- The Reporter Jacket Monochrom, a blend of fashion and technology, incorporates gadgets like specialized compartments for camera bodies, battery pockets, and SD card holders, catering to the modern photographer's style.
- Despite its high-tech functionalities, the jacket remains a sleek, all-black masterpiece akin to Leica’s Monochrom cameras, mirroring the minimalist, premium design philosophy of both Aether and Leica.
