US Aviator Jacket History
A real leather bomber jacket is an investment for the rest of your life.
Early History
In World War I, most airplanes did not have an enclosed cockpit, so pilots had to wear something that would keep them sufficiently warm. The U.S. Army officially established the Aviation Clothing Board in September 1917 and began distributing heavy-duty leather flight jackets, with high wraparound collars, zipper closures with wind flaps, snug cuffs and waists, and some fringed and lined with fur. After the Great War in 1927 they issued the A1 jacket that was made out of sheep skin, goat skin or horse hide.
The Best Flight Jackets
From 1931 to 1943 the U.S. Military used the A2 jacket. To the A2 jackets they added zipper closure insted of buttons. It was so good that the Army reissued it in 1988. In 1938 they made the G1. This jacket was designed for a lot more freedom of movement. The G1-s popularity evolved into symbols of honor, adventure, and style. Hollywood films like Top Gun boosted sales of the jacket tremendously.
The Real Bomber Jackets
Most heavy bombing raids in Europe during World War II took place from altitudes of at least 25,000 ft, where ambient temperatures could reach as cold as −50 °C (−58 °F). Thats where the B3 came in. It is a hearling jacket made out of sheepskin and wool. In 1939 they introduced the B6. It was a slimmer version of the B3.