Sizing guidance

[HDFB110]

Hello there - looking at getting an Urvin reproduction.
I have narrowed my field of search down to Aero Leathers or Aviation Leathercraft
I have measured 50 inch chest & a measured 36 inch waist (Jean size)
My stomach at it largest or fattest is 40 inch.
How do these sort of jackets size?
Do they give or stretch with time/age/wear?
Does the shearling lining flatten or squash?
Looking at spending £800 or so pounds I want to get the right size !!
Difficulty at the moment is wi5 COVID it’s only really online business.
Also UK seem to be having issues getting sheep skins - BREXIT - who knows

Thanks for any guidance or help

 

[B-Man2]

Hi HDF
Welcome to VLJ
One of our members here is a fellow named Ken who manages Aero Leather . If you are considering an Irvin jacket , I would strongly advise you to talk to Ken or write him a private message directly . As for choosing a maker, I think most here would agree with me that you would be miles ahead by choosing an Aero . Of the two makers, Aero produces the most accurate reproduction of the original WWII jacket .

 

[MikeyB-17]

Welcome aboard. Burt is right, most of us would go for the Aero, which is far closer to a wartime original than the ALC-but that’s what we’re into here. Note that original Irvins had no pockets, and nor will the Aero. ALC Irvins do have pockets-not historically accurate, but more practical. ALC tend to appeal more to folk who drive open top sports cars and the like-nothing intrinsically wrong with ALC, they’re nicely made and very warm, and if accuracy doesn’t bother you, you may prefer one of theirs-just depends what’s important to you. As far as measurements are concerned, both manufacturers know their business, and will be able to advise you what size you need.

 

[B-Man2]

Good points Mikey .
He may simply like the overall look of the jacket and the convenience of having pockets, and not necessarily be interested in historical accuracy. My bad I should have given that some thought as well.

Welcome aboard. Burt is right, most of us would go for the Aero, which is far closer to a wartime original than the ALC-but that’s what we’re into here. Note that original Irvins had no pockets, and nor will the Aero. ALC Irvins do have pockets-not historically accurate, but more practical. ALC tend to appeal more to folk who drive open top sports cars and the like-nothing intrinsically wrong with ALC, they’re nicely made and very warm, and if accuracy doesn’t bother you, you may prefer one of theirs-just depends what’s important to you. As far as measurements are concerned, both manufacturers know their business, and will be able to advise you what size you need.

 

[HDFB110]

Thanks for the quick responses so far -
On the question of historic accuracy - I like the jackets weights, quality of material, warmth, durability.
Having said that I’m not one who wants to just hang it in the wardrobe - I will be using it.
No I’m not in the open top sports car crew - but I will be using it when on my motorbike!
The idea of pockets for convenience vs accuracy - I’m in the field of of a modern day classic = pockets would be useful for me ?
Sorry as a newbie if I’m upsetting the authenticity factor but I want a usable jacket.
Think I will still try to get in touch with the guy at aero leathers.
Would still like/need some sizing info

Thanks

 

[B-Man2]

Thanks for the quick responses so far -
On the question of historic accuracy - I like the jackets weights, quality of material, warmth, durability.
Having said that I’m not one who wants to just hang it in the wardrobe - I will be using it.
No I’m not in the open top sports car crew - but I will be using it when on my motorbike!
The idea of pockets for convenience vs accuracy - I’m in the field of of a modern day classic = pockets would be useful for me ?
Sorry as a newbie if I’m upsetting the authenticity factor but I want a usable jacket.
Think I will still try to get in touch with the guy at aero leathers.
Would still like/need some sizing info

Thanks

Based on your last response I would suggest that you contact both companies regarding sizing information . The jackets are cut differently, as the Aero will be a bit trimmer based on WWII patterns. I’ve owned a ALC Irvin and they tend to fit true to current day sizing .