A brief History of Flight Jacket Evolution

The development of flight jackets began during the First World War when pilots needed protection from the cold in open cockpits. With the rise of military aviation in the 1930s, numerous new jacket models were created, aiming to strike the ideal balance between maximum insulation, durability, and freedom of movement. The U.S. Army Air Force and the U.S. Navy pursued somewhat different approaches but often achieved similar results. Over time, various models made of leather, fur, and cotton materials emerged—both lined and unlined, depending on the climate zone. However, all flight jackets of the 1930s and 1940s shared one common trait: they evolved from their military origins into iconic fashion classics with worldwide influence.

Our collection is home of the following iconic flight jacket: