Hello all,
Been on the hunt for a new winter weight jacket and have settled on the idea of purchasing an Irvin. I've been diligently scouring the web in search of the jacket that will work for me and am now turning to the gents on this forum in an effort to garner some intel and wisdom into the various available jackets of this style out there. I have searched this forum and found much valuable info thus far and hope that this post may add to what I have learned thus far. From what I have read, there are three companies that have stood out as having top quality Irvin Flying Jackets, these being Eastman (ELC), Aero Leather, and Aviation Leathercraft. The only issue with these Jackets is the price tag. I understand the old adage that you get what you pay for, but the price on these jackets is simply a bit to high for what I am willing to pay for a winter jacket. Here are some of the other Irvins I have found that have come in a various prices:
Simmons Bilt
British Sheepskin
Brands Lock
Cirrus
What Price Glory
Flight Jacket.com
I'd love to hear any input from those who have experience with any of these other companies (specifically their Irvin RAF Jacket)
I have noticed when reading the forums here that many have various reasons and concerns when it comes to what there looking for in one of these jackets. I think it would be helpful to know that I am not overly concerned with era authenticity and much more concerned with durability, cold weather serviceability, ease of wear (meaning comfort and mobility), and longevity. The jacket will be used approximately 6 months out of every year and should see temps on average ranging from about 5 degrees Fahrenheit to the low 40's. I intend on wearing this jacket as a daily wear during the winter months and some of the fall.
I thank all those in advance that took the time to read through this and render some much desired advise and/or direction in this endeavor.
Cheers!
SERE
Been on the hunt for a new winter weight jacket and have settled on the idea of purchasing an Irvin. I've been diligently scouring the web in search of the jacket that will work for me and am now turning to the gents on this forum in an effort to garner some intel and wisdom into the various available jackets of this style out there. I have searched this forum and found much valuable info thus far and hope that this post may add to what I have learned thus far. From what I have read, there are three companies that have stood out as having top quality Irvin Flying Jackets, these being Eastman (ELC), Aero Leather, and Aviation Leathercraft. The only issue with these Jackets is the price tag. I understand the old adage that you get what you pay for, but the price on these jackets is simply a bit to high for what I am willing to pay for a winter jacket. Here are some of the other Irvins I have found that have come in a various prices:
Simmons Bilt
British Sheepskin
Brands Lock
Cirrus
What Price Glory
Flight Jacket.com
I'd love to hear any input from those who have experience with any of these other companies (specifically their Irvin RAF Jacket)
I have noticed when reading the forums here that many have various reasons and concerns when it comes to what there looking for in one of these jackets. I think it would be helpful to know that I am not overly concerned with era authenticity and much more concerned with durability, cold weather serviceability, ease of wear (meaning comfort and mobility), and longevity. The jacket will be used approximately 6 months out of every year and should see temps on average ranging from about 5 degrees Fahrenheit to the low 40's. I intend on wearing this jacket as a daily wear during the winter months and some of the fall.
I thank all those in advance that took the time to read through this and render some much desired advise and/or direction in this endeavor.
Cheers!
SERE