Vintage 1980s Schott A2 Naked Cowhide Leather Flight Jacket

Built during the 1980s, this Schott A2 jacket sits within the lineage of American flight-influenced outerwear that bridged military heritage with civilian wear. While the silhouette reflects the classic A2 pattern, this period of Schott production emphasised natural, open-finish hides designed to age through use rather than treatment. This particular example was selected for its exceptional surface maturity, chosen specifically for the depth and warmth of its naturally developed patina.

The leather is full grain naked cowhide, known for its ability to soften, darken and take on a burnished richness through long-term wear. The hide has matured beautifully, with gentle tonal variation and smooth, pliable movement across the sleeves and body. It retains a confident structure with authentic creasing and organic grain characteristic of well preserved naked cowhide from this era.

Inside, the original Schott lining remains clean and intact. The waistband and cuffs have been professionally refurbished in our workshop, restoring their form while remaining faithful to the jacket’s proportions. The main zipper retains its original hardware, now fitted with a period-appropriate YKK pull after the original failed, ensuring reliable performance without altering the jacket’s authenticity.

A defining quality of this jacket is the honesty of its patina. Naked cowhide was designed to record wear rather than conceal it, and the burnished transitions across the sleeves, pockets and seams reflect decades of genuine use. This depth of character is exactly why the jacket was selected for restoration and inclusion in our collection.

Cleaned and conditioned in house using our specialist workshop methods, the leather is supple, strong and full of natural character. Stitching, seams and components are all sound. Overall condition is very good vintage with no structural issues.

Key Identifying Features

• Full grain naked cowhide with naturally developed burnished ageing
• Classic 1980s Schott A2 silhouette with epaulettes and twin flap pockets
• Professionally refurbished waistband and cuffs
• Period-appropriate YKK zipper pull fitted to original hardware
• Clean original Schott lining
• Strong stitching and well preserved structure

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 24 inches
• Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 17 inches
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 25 inches
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 20 inches
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 25.5 inches

Best suited for a size 44 chest with a classic A2 fit. Please compare with a similar jacket for accuracy.

A well preserved and characterful example of Schott’s 1980s work, selected for the exceptional maturity of its naked cowhide and restored with care in our workshop.