Out of pure curiosity, what is seen as the easiest/comfiest contract that is currently made by the current makers?
Totally depends imo.
Bi-swing back (USN types, & ANJ-3) makes for easier arm motion, its more comfy sitting with arms out-stretched. No arm 'pull'.
Rayon lining is considered by some more comfy to wear (soft & silky), than cotton, esp in warmer climates... less robust perhaps...
As far as A-2s, pick your poison.
Reading through John's descriptions helps a ton. But everyone has different body types, different fit preferences etc.
Personally, I'd say... A-2s with slightly wider shoulders and/ or slightly wider arm holes, tend to be easier to wear, but then go up a size and that theory goes out the window.
Also, those contracts that have neck lines that sit a bit lower or slightly larger neck holes.
A skinny bloke may not find the boxy, wide bodies contracts comfy, just like a chap with lots of 'muscle' might find the trimmer contracts restrictive.
Personally, I find the Dubow very comfy.
My first GW was a Knopf 18246, also extremely comfy as I recall.
AVIs 'Bronco's are nice, and I am debating one from John, which Im sure at the correct size would be epic.
Ive developed a preference for simple collars (non-collar stands), they sit out the way, some have a lower neckline...
I think all in all, the USN jackets win on comfort and wearability (but I struggle with the mouton collars in warmer months...). But for me, I just love the classic A-2.
An ANJ-3 with the bi-swing back and leather collar, is a great middle ground maybe.
This is a discussion for a get-together at an airshow, or over a Guiness lol