Vintage Cirrus RAF Irvin Groundcrew Sheepskin Flying Jacket

Before enclosed cockpits became standard, flying at altitude meant dealing with extreme cold and constant exposure. The RAF sheepskin flying jacket came out of that need, developed in the early 1930s by parachute pioneer Leslie Irvin and later approved by the Air Ministry. Built entirely from sheepskin, it was designed to provide warmth where standard uniform simply wasn’t enough.

While most often associated with pilots in Spitfires and Lancaster bombers, these jackets were just as important on the ground. RAF groundcrew worked in exposed conditions on airfields, often in the same cold, wind and damp, and relied on the same sheepskin construction for warmth and protection. The design remained unchanged in principle, practical, durable and built to be worn.

This Cirrus example, produced in England during the 1990s, takes direct reference from those early RAF patterns. It doesn’t try to present itself as a wartime piece, but it holds onto the same visual language and intent. The construction is straightforward and well judged, with a full sheepskin build, balanced panel layout and a shape that feels right when worn.

The outer skin carries a deep brown tone with natural variation across the panels, giving it a quiet depth rather than anything overly uniform. The fleece is dense and even throughout, with a warm honey colour that sits well against the darker exterior. In hand, it has the weight and structure you expect from a proper sheepskin jacket.

The design remains true to the Irvin pattern. A clean front zip runs through the body, supported by a broad collar that can be worn open or secured when needed. The overall cut is short and balanced, sitting neatly at the waist without excess, making it easy to wear while still holding the character of the original design.

Condition and Preservation

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

The outer leather shows light, natural creasing through areas of movement, exactly as you would expect from careful use. It hasn’t been pushed or worn hard, just used properly and maintained. The grain remains strong and the surface clean, with an honest, understated character.

All seams are sound, the structure holds well, and the hardware functions smoothly throughout. 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’s a straightforward, well kept example. The kind of jacket that does not need explaining once it’s in hand, equally suited to wear, display or long term ownership.

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 25"
• Shoulders seam to seam 22"
• Sleeve length shoulder to cuff 26"
• Sleeve length underarm to cuff 21"
• Back length collar seam to hem 27"

Best suited to a 44" chest, large frame. Please compare measurements with a similar garment to ensure an accurate fit.