Vintage Cirrus Irvin Sheepskin Flying Jacket RAF 1940 Pattern Battle of Britain

Originally developed in the early 1930s by parachute pioneer Leslie Irvin, the RAF sheepskin flying jacket became one of the defining garments of the Second World War. Approved by the Air Ministry in 1932, it was designed to provide essential warmth and protection in unpressurised aircraft at altitude. Constructed entirely from sheepskin, it stood apart from other issued garments of the period, both in material and purpose.

This style of jacket was worn by RAF aircrew in aircraft such as Spitfires and Lancaster bombers, where protection from the cold at altitude was essential.

By 1940, during the period now associated with the Battle of Britain, jackets were still being produced using larger, less segmented panels before wartime efficiency led to the more familiar multi panel construction. These earlier forms carried a cleaner, more substantial look, with broader sections of sheepskin and a slightly more refined silhouette.

This Cirrus example, produced in the 1990s, takes direct reference from that early RAF 1940 pattern. It follows the original design principles closely, with a full sheepskin build, reinforced seam structure and a layout that reflects the character of the wartime jackets without presenting itself as an original. The outer finish is a deep brown with natural variation through the hide, and the fleece is dense and even throughout, finished in a warm honey tone typical of early Irvin examples.

Construction remains true to the Irvin pattern. A substantial front zip is set into leather facings, supported by a waist belt and buckle for adjustment. The wide collar and throat latch offer additional protection when fastened, while zipped cuffs and angled handwarmer pockets make the jacket practical for regular wear.

Condition and Preservation

This Cirrus RAF Irvin is in excellent vintage condition and has clearly been well looked after over the years. The sheepskin still feels solid and balanced, with a good weight to it, and the fleece is full and even throughout. Nothing feels tired or overworked.

The outer leather shows the kind of light creasing you would expect from use, mainly where the jacket naturally moves, but nothing out of place. It hasn’t been pushed or worn hard, just used and kept properly. The seams are all sound, it holds its shape well, and everything functions as it should.

It has been through the workshop for a clean and a light dressing, just enough to keep the leather in good order without changing how it looks or feels.

Overall, it is a straightforward, well-kept jacket. One of those pieces that does not need explaining when you have it in hand.

Key Details

• Cirrus Irvin style sheepskin flying jacket
• Based on RAF 1940 pattern design
• Made in England
• 1990s production
• Heavyweight sheepskin construction
• Full fleece lining throughout
• Classic Irvin multi panel layout
• Front zip with leather facings
• Adjustable waist belt with buckle
• Throat latch and wide collar
• Zipped cuffs and handwarmer pockets

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest armpit to armpit 24.5"
• Shoulders seam to seam 21"
• Sleeve length shoulder to cuff 27"
• Sleeve length underarm to cuff 22"
• Back length collar seam to hem 27"

Best suited to a 42" chest, medium. Please compare measurements with a similar garment to ensure an accurate fit.