Jacket, MA-1, John Ownbey, Leather, Brown, Size M

John Ownbey Leather MA-1 Flight JacketUS Air Force Style Flyer's JacketGoatskin Leather ShellTwo Front Slash Pockets, With Snap ClosureKnitted Cuffs and WaistbandUtility/Pencil Shoulder PocketSuitable for Down to 30FThe John Ownbey MA-1 Leather Bomber Jacket is modeled after the military issue nylon MA-1. With the introduction of jet aircraft, the old fleece lined jackets needed to be replaced. The heavy fleece jackets would freeze at high altitudes if they absorbed any sort of moisture, including rain or sweat. After World War II, when nylon became more readily available, the cotton B-15 pilot's jacket was replaced with the thinner, lightweight MA-1. Besides getting a thinner jacket, the fur collar, which was getting in the way, was also removed, and replaced with a ribbed knitted collar. Starting from around 1950, the nylon made MA-1 started being issued to Air Force and Navy pilots, as well as flight and ground crews. The pilot and flight crew MA1 is reversible, with a bright orange inside, while the ground crew MA1 is not.The John Ownbey MA-1 has a similar style, but is made with a goat skin leather shell. The lining is made from polyester, with a polyfiber fill to maintain warmth. The two front slash pockets snap closed and there is an easily accessible shoulder pocket for pencils and other necessities. The MA1 also has knitted wrist cuffs and waistband for a warm, comfortable fit.