Vintage 1980s Schott Naked Cowhide Leather A2 Flying Jacket

This civilian Schott A2 flight jacket sits within the post-war American tradition of flight-inspired leatherwear, produced for everyday use rather than military issue. Made during the 1980s, it follows the established A2 pattern while placing greater emphasis on material character, using open-finish leather designed to develop naturally over time. This example was selected for the maturity of its hide and the depth of character earned through sustained wear.

Constructed from full-grain naked cowhide, the leather has darkened and softened gradually, developing a warm tone and fluid movement across the body and sleeves. Wear presents as natural creasing, subtle abrasion, and burnished transitions at seams and stress points, all consistent with genuine use rather than artificial ageing. Despite this, the jacket retains reassuring structure and weight, giving it presence without stiffness. The patina is pronounced, even, and clearly visible throughout.

The interior is finished with the original Schott lining, which remains clean, intact, and well preserved. This example is fitted with a removable shearling collar and a zip-out inner lining, allowing the jacket to be worn comfortably across different seasons. One securing tab on the collar is missing, though this does not affect how the collar sits or functions when worn. The waistband and cuffs have been refurbished in our workshop to restore function and shape while respecting the jacket’s original proportions. Two very small repairs are present at the waist ribbing, neatly executed and difficult to detect without close inspection. They are fully secure and do not affect wear or appearance. The main zipper and all hardware remain original to the jacket and have been serviced and lubricated to ensure smooth, reliable operation.

The jacket has been professionally cleaned and lightly conditioned in-house, leaving the leather supple and strong without masking its character. Stitching, seams, and panels are sound throughout. Condition is very good vintage, showing authentic wear consistent with age but no structural faults. Although tagged as a size 50, this jacket fits closer to a modern 46–48. Sizing from this period often runs larger on the label, reflecting different fit standards at the time.

Key Details

• Full-grain naked cowhide with visible wear and natural surface variation
• Civilian Schott A2 flight jacket from the 1980s
• Removable shearling collar
• Zip-out inner lining
• Epaulettes and twin flap pockets
• Refurbished waistband and cuffs with discreet rib repairs
• Original zipper and hardware, serviced and functioning smoothly
• Clean original lining
• Secure structure and stitching throughout

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 27 inches
• Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 18 inches
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 26 inches
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 23 inches
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 26 inches

Best suited to a size 46–48 chest, depending on preferred fit. Please compare with a similar jacket for accuracy.