Leather Military
Background of the Flight Jacket
As early as World War I when airplanes had openair compartments, pilots started seeking flight jackets to provide warmth and comfort in the harsh temperatures of the open skies. Thus the origin of the famous “Bomber Jacket” or “Flight Jacket” was born.
Over time, there have been many designs from the unofficial and popular early leather bomber jackets of 1915 through 1917 to subsequent official military style bomber jackets such as the 1931 “A2 Bomber Jacket.”
Originally, pilots and crews grabbed whatever they could acquire because no formal or official coat was issued to address the nightmarish cold and weather environments the pilots faced in world war I. Weighty long leather jackets quickly became desired with tight snug cuffs around the wrists, tight fit around the waists, and warm collars to help protect from the cold. These are the design principles that are at the heart of what today we commonly perceive of as being flight jacket or bomber jacket.
At the conclusion of WW I, the US army formed the Aviation Clothing Board and began distributing these mighty leather jackets.
By the time World War II broke out, the United States Air Corp was distributing the A-2 Bomber Jacket. The Navy and Marine Corp were issued a similar jacket that was known as the G-1.
As airplane power progressed throughout the war, airplanes were now flying at significantly higher altitudes and radically higher velocities. Temperatures inside these aircraft – often flying with open compartments – plummeted! And their stylish bomber jackets began to give way to a much warmer jacket with a lining of wool or fur. These warmer jackets were popularized by the B3 Bomber Flight Jacket, a large wool and fur lined jacket with large cargo pockets.
Ground personnel and flight crews soon adopted the pilot’s B3 Bomber Jacket, and the new B7 Flight Jacket became the instant rage.
A decade later introduced the new age of the jet with an enclosed compartment and more attention needed to be focused on the warmth, comfort, and safety of the pilots. The B-15 Flight Jacket was designed out of nylon and various synthetic materials to keep the pilot both warm and dry. The light weight and more flexible style was also welcomed. As jet technology continued to develop, the MA-1 jacket removed the fur linings because they interfered with the harness of the pilot’s parachute. Today, you can routinely find both the B-15 and the Leather MA1 Flight Jackets with and without the fur linings.
A classic flight jacket or bomber jacket is considered both a stylish and practical item of apparel. Appropriate for a evening out on the town or a functional outdoor trip – and should be in every person’s closet.
Leather Military Sling Installation and Configuration – M1907