The Giant Robot Co. said:
The Trophy Jacket is bad ass! I would buy that in a heartbeat but it doesn't really seem to have all that much protection. Dumb to buy a riding jacket without?
It's waxed cotton with no armor. Ultra-traditional material and kind of abrasion resistant compared to many other basic fabrics, just like the Barbour style jackets that don't have armor. It's part of Vanson's fashion line, not their protective line. That said, hopefully it's still at least cut like a riding jacket for comfort and utility while on the bike. I tried on a different waxed-cotton jacket model in their showroom a few years ago and it felt like it was cut for riding but not in an extreme way, so there were compromises both on and off the bike, but it worked well enough for both. I'm sure Vanson will give you the scoop on the fit if you call them. They're great people.
Dumb to buy? Depends. If you'll wear it as opposed to a less-protective garment (denim jacket, t-shirt, whatever) it's a good idea. If there's something with armor that you like just as much and will wear just as much, probably a better idea to go with that.
If you want something for lower speeds around town and looking good, not too awkward when you've gotten where you want to go, this might be a great option. It's not cheap, though...Vanson gear
You can't always get into the complete ninja-turtle gear if you ride your bike as a practical matter. Protection's always good when seen in a vacuum, but what you choose to wear in a given situation is a matter of risk mitigation within your accepted parameters.
Bates Leathers makes a fairly cool casual armored textile jacket that I've considered, myself. But the sizing doesn't seem right for me. I'm long and thin, the jackets look squat and boxy. Forgot to mention these earlier. Not as traditional cafe-racer as something like that Vanson, though.
http://www.batesleathers.com/streetwear/jackets_nylon.php