Flight jackets - what to expect from these military icons
Flight jackets are some of the easiest heritage items to pull off, but the amount of variation can make choosing the right one a daunting challenge. There's been a huge amount of change from the earliest examples to the more recognisable cuts, so let's break down some of the most iconic jackets we stock and help you choose a jacket that suits you perfectly!
Early Aviation
Before government contract jackets, there was no real blueprint for what a flight jacket could be. Personifying this is Freewheelers 'Wind Master', a fantastic amalgamation of features present on early aviation jackets. This absolute stunner of a piece is made of a thick cotton canvas, alpaca lined, and features a huge shearling collar. The deep burgundy colour makes it stand out without being garish, and a plethora of small details shows off just how much work goes into Freewheelers designs.
A-2 Jacket
The A-1 and A-2 are the first styles we can really consider as true standardised flight jackets. The A-1 was originally made of lambskin, and degraded extremely fast, which is what spurred the change to horsehide for the A-2, and cemented this model as a true classic. With its flip collar, knitted cuffs, and duel front pockets, the style is immediately recognisable and evokes mid-century militaria like nothing else.
B-10 Jacket
The B-10 was created to allow higher altitude flights, as early jackets weren't cutting it in the increased pressure and cold. Changing material from leather to cotton to stop the shape warping, the B-10 also features alpaca lining and a shealing collar, making it absolutely ideal for colder weather!
B-15 Jacket
The B-15 tweaked details on the B-10 in minor but important ways, but those changes give it a more contemporary look that suits a wide range of wardrobes! Keeping all the good stuff like alpaca lining and boxy shape, the B-15 adds a subtly asymmetrical zip closure and hand warmer pockets.
MA-1 Jacket
Standing as quite possibly the most iconic piece of miliary clothing ever produced, the MA-1 is recognisable for its low profile knitted collar and nylon construction. The MA-1 carries an extremely boxy, rounded silhouette, making it fantastically versatile and comfortable both in and out of a heritage context. There are countless variations of the jacket, so you're guaranteed to find something that suits!
William Gibson
Sci-fi author William Gibson left an unexpected mark on heritage fashion when he included a black version of Buzz Rickson's MA-1 in his writing. Due to popular demand by readers, the brand began producing black versions of their classic flight jackets, naming it after Gibson and adding a sleek range of classics to their roster. If you're looking for something more suited to a streetwear or city look, these jackets are for you!
