Background of the Bomber Jacket

As early as World War I when airplanes had open cockpits, pilots began seeking clothing to provide warmth and comfort in the bitter temperatures of the open skies. Thus the start of the historical “Bomber Jacket” or “Flight Jacket” was born.

Over the years, there have been many styles from the unofficial and popular early leather bomber jackets of 1915 through 1917 to later official military style bomber jackets such as the 1931 “A2 Bomber Jacket.”

Historically, pilots and crews grabbed whatever they could acquire because no specific or official gear was issued to handle the nightmarish cold and weather conditions the pilots encountered in world war I. Heavy long leather jackets rapidly became popular 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 fundamentals that are at the essence of what today we commonly think of as a flight jacket or bomber jacket.

At the close of WWI, the US army formed the Aviation Clothing Board and started distributing these warm leather jackets.

By the day World War II broke out, the United States Air Corp was distributing the A-2 Bomber Jacket. The Navy and Marine Corp began issuing a similar jacket that became called the G-1.

As aircraft power progressed throughout the war, airplanes were now flying at substantially higher altitudes and much higher speeds. Temperatures inside these aircraft – often flying with open compartments – fell! And their stylish bomber jackets started 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 crew and flight crews quickly adopted the pilot’s B3 Bomber Jacket, and the new B7 Flight Jacket became the popular rage.

A decade later saw the high-tech age of the jet with an enclosed compartment and now 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 other synthetic materials to keep the pilot both warm and dry. The lighter weight and more flexible design was also appreciated. As jet technology continued to develop, the MA-1 jacket removed its fur linings because they interfered with the harness of the pilot’s parachute. Now, you can routinely find both the B-15 and the Leather MA1 Flight Jackets with and without the fur linings.

A stylish flight jacket or bomber jacket is considered both a stylish and practical item of apparel. Suitable for a evening out on the town or a practical outdoor trip – and must be in every man’s closet.

Background of the Bomber Jacket

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B-3 Bomber Jacket

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