Vintage 1980s USAAF Sheepskin Flying Jacket

This sheepskin flying jacket, produced in the early 1980s, carries forward the practical lineage of USAAF flight gear while standing firmly as a piece of vintage craftsmanship in its own right. Mid-weight in build and generous in cut, it balances warmth, durability, and presence, the same qualities that saw jackets of this type adopted not only by aviators but also by riders and civilians seeking serious cold-weather protection.

The jacket is cut from quality sheepskin, with a dark brown leather exterior that has aged naturally over time. The surface shows settled creasing and light abrasions developed through use, giving depth and individuality without compromising strength. The leather remains supple and well supported throughout. Inside, the fleece is full, soft, and evenly handled, providing reliable insulation and comfort.

The overall cut is broad and practical, giving the jacket a strong silhouette without excess shaping. Construction details reflect its functional origins, prioritising wearability and longevity over decoration. This is a jacket built to be used rather than admired at a distance.

The jacket remains in very good condition throughout. The leather is sound and flexible, the fleece clean and consistent, and all seams remain secure. Signs of use are present but even, contributing to its character rather than detracting from it, it offers a relaxed, substantial fit consistent with traditional sheepskin flight jackets.

The jacket has undergone a careful, multi-stage restoration process carried out entirely in-house. It was professionally leather cleaned to treat both hide and fleece thoroughly while preserving the original surface character and patina. Conditioning was applied sparingly using our own workshop formulas to restore balance and suppleness without masking age. The zips were refurbished and lubricated for smooth, reliable use. The result is a jacket that remains honest to its history, stabilised and prepared for continued wear or long-term ownership.

This is a strong example of post-war sheepskin flying jacket design, valued for its material quality, practical construction, and preserved authenticity. It remains equally suited to careful wear or inclusion in a serious collection.

Key Identifying Features

• Early 1980s sheepskin flying jacket
• Mid-weight construction with dark brown leather exterior
• Full fleece interior providing effective insulation
• Natural patina with creasing and light abrasions from use
• Broad, practical cut typical of flight jackets
• Refurbished and lubricated zips
• Conditioned in-house for strength and suppleness
• Structurally sound and fully wearable

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 25 inches
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 23 inches
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 27 inches
• Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 19 inches
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 27 inches

Best suited to a size 46 (XL). Please compare with a similar jacket for accuracy.