so how Good/ bad is WPG Irvin?

[Smithy]

A few pictures to help.

Comparison of fleece, WPG at top, original (Links wasn't it Andrew?) at bottom:


Here's the bald patch I was talking about - also shows the reproduction label too:


Comparison of collar shapes. The WPG styled after the more square Wareings, the original a Links noted for its rounder collar style (which I prefer personally):


WPG's Irvin:


Being worn:


For what its worth, I've had no trouble with the zips other than the sharp edges on it; the sleeve zips if left like this may cause surface damage to the sides if you let your sleeve zips brush up against the side panels. I consciously try to avoid this - without walking with a gait like the Michelin Man. Also no trouble with the seams being stiff or plastic-y.

Very good review. I'm sure that will help a lot of people.

Thanks for posting.

 

[flyboy]

As mentioned earlier by Smithy, I used to own one. For a couple of months.

I'll say this: You get what you pay for.
I also agree that the jacket was much softer and flexible than the ALC I used to have before the WPG. (Even though I persuaded them to make my jacket in their lighter sheepskin.)
That being said, I was turned off by the look and feel of the fleece, which had a certain "nylon" look and feel.
But most of all by the use of "artificial leather" - some call it plastic - at all seam-tapes, belt and back of the collar. It made the collar very stiff and sort of heavy, which drew the jacket sort of back on your shoulders. (Hard to explain, but I hop you get the picture.)
I had heard about problems with the zippers too - but never experienced it. Although they were quite flimsy.
I know, that this might sound a bit harsh - but being one, who has searched for that "Holy Grail" of repros for ages - and finally found it at Aces High, it's hard to compare these two jackets, without sounding a bit harsh. So sorry.

Here's a picture of my WPG


For the money - its a fairly warm and soft jacket. Close to the original.
But if you want the best quality, most original repro money can buy - save 'em.

 

[Tim P]

Well I bid quite actively on it. When it got to the point where it made better economic sense to buy a new one direct I stopped. The use of synthetics to keep the cost down was a bit of an off put really and that kept my bids low.
It should have ended or be ending soon. No drama I will either get a brand new one or save and get a better one.

 

[John Lever]

Tim,
Just buy a used ELC , now the warmer weather is here there might be bargains on ebay. What size are you ?

 

[Tim P]

Im a 46 in most things (except GW....)

 

[flyboy]

I am with John on this one.
Save your money and buy a used ELC.
Or save even more and get yourself a brand new Aces High Irvin.

 

[Otter]

I had my Aero (not quite as good in the arms as Aces or ELC) but worn literaly twice from ebay at half the cost of a new one, size 46 as well so they are out there.

 

[CBI]

I just now read this thread and you know, these look pretty good worn and for $350 - hmmmmmmmmm. Certainly, better off with a high end jacket but if one simply didn't have much to spend, its not an embarrassing option! They don't have my size now anyway, just 46, 48 and 50 now.

 

[fishmeok]

Hello

I have a WPG Irvin in a 44 that fits a 46 perfectly. The defective zip has been replaced (WPG sent out a replacement) and I added a couple clear coats to give the surface some more depth. Otherwise the same as Jasons. Worn about 7 times or so. It's a good coat for the money, with the disadvantages noted in the earlier posts. Biggest plus beside the cost is the slightly thinner fleece, makes this wearable ALMOST three-fourths of the year if you live up North like me... Mine is for sale, drop me a PM if interested.

Cheers
Mark

 

[Doug C]

Hello

I have a WPG Irvin in a 44 that fits a 46 perfectly.
Cheers
Mark

As a general rule.. is it a good idea to size down 1 with the WPG Irvin?