Vintage Avirex Sheepskin Flying Jacket USAAF Type B-7 Arctic Parka

Firm in presence and uncompromising in scale, this 1980s B-7 from Avirex stands as one of the more substantial and increasingly scarce reproductions from the period when the brand was operating at full authority. It is defined by weight, proportion and seriousness of purpose rather than interpretation.

The original B-7 Arctic Parka was produced between 1941 and 1942 during the Second World War. Issued to both flight crews and ground personnel working in debilitating cold and largely undeveloped regions, it was engineered for sustained exposure to severe conditions. Cut to a three-quarter length, it proved highly effective against harsh temperatures and snow storms. Constructed almost entirely from shearling, with a coyote fur lined hood providing additional protection, the B-7 was exceptionally expensive to manufacture. Owing to wartime production costs, its run was short-lived, which contributes to its relative rarity within the hierarchy of flight clothing.

By the 1980s, Avirex had established itself as a leading authority in historically informed American flight jacket reproductions. The B-7 was never produced in the same volumes as the B-3 or A-2, and strong surviving examples remain notably uncommon. This piece reflects that disciplined era of production, where material weight and structural honesty defined the garment.

Cut to a true three-quarter length for genuine protection, the silhouette is deliberate and protective. The substantial sheepskin carries a deep brown exterior with natural grain and no artificial distressing. The wool remains dense and evenly structured throughout the body and sleeves, providing authentic insulation. The oversized Arctic hood is correctly proportioned, complete with drawstrings and trimmed in genuine coyote fur, designed to shield against sustained wind and blowing snow. The fur remains full and well retained.

Construction follows the classic Arctic configuration. A covered front zip secured with toggle fastenings sits beneath a wind guard. Angled hand warmer pockets sit at the chest, with reinforced zip pockets positioned lower down. Large patch pockets add further practicality. The original front zip operates smoothly and remains in strong mechanical order. The hide retains its suppleness with no dryness or cracking, and the shearling is clean and evenly toned throughout.

A substantial and increasingly scarce 1980s interpretation of one of the most expensive and short-lived garments in the wartime flight clothing system.

Condition and Preservation

The jacket has been professionally cleaned to remove embedded soiling, then carefully conditioned in house to ensure the sheepskin remains nourished while preserving its original character. No artificial enhancement has been applied. There is no thinning to the wool, no structural concerns and no areas of weakness. The leather remains strong and evenly toned. Overall condition is excellent vintage, defined by preservation rather than restoration.

Key Identifying Features

• 1980s Avirex B-7 Arctic parka
• Heavyweight sheepskin construction
• Deep brown exterior with natural surface character
• Full shearling lining, dense and evenly retained
• Oversized Arctic hood trimmed in genuine coyote fur
• Strap and button storm closure over wind guard
• Zip chest pockets and large lower utility pockets
• Original hardware throughout, fully functional
• Professionally cleaned and conditioned

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 26.5"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 23.5"
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 27"
• Sleeve length (underarm to cuff): 18.5"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 34"

Best suited to a chest size 46-48. Please compare these measurements with a similar garment for best accuracy.