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Ever since the dawn of aviation, flight jackets were purpose-built to help military pilots survive the colder conditions of uninsulated cockpits. From the original horsehide leather coats of the early 20th century to the fur-collared B-15 developed in the ‘40s, warmth was the primary function. However, as time went on, conditions improved and these jackets required more technical capabilities. That’s where the MA-1 comes in, swapping leather for a more lightweight nylon shell and ditching the fur collars of the ubiquitous B-15 due to how it interfered with parachute harnesses. Alpha Industries won the contract to produce the MA-1 Flight Jacket for the U.S. Military in 1963 and still makes the jacket today, keeping specifications as close to the original as possible.
Considered the first “modern day” flight jacket, the MA-1 has become a fashion staple for civilian use ever since the ‘60s and is the style that all other nylon-shelled coats are styled after. For a military jacket, it sports a surprisingly clean design yet offers ample practicality during missions. Often copied but never replicated, the company’s biggest evolution to the style was its reversibility, with an orange nylon interior lining that can be worn inside-out to give the pilot high visibility during search and rescue situations.
Water-resistant to protect from light rain and spills, the mid-weight flight nylon shell won’t overheat when the temp increases yet gives you solid insulation in the cold with its 100% polyester fill. For extra coverage, knit rib is given to the collar, cuffs (ottoman knit), and waistband, while the shirred sleeve helps with mobility in your arms throughout the day.
Available in a handful of versatile colorways, the jacket comes equipped with a pair of lower flap pockets on the outside, while the interior has two welt pockets that can also be your main storage compartments when worn reversed. A utility pocket on the outside can be used for smaller gear. It’s given a signature red ribbon with Alpha Industries branding.
Priced at $200, the MA-1 Flight Jacket is available from Alpha Industries’ website.
