Winter weather flying is in full swing, which means it’s time to layer up and prepare for those colder flights. Not every jacket is suitable for the cockpit, but that’s where we come in—let Sporty’s help you pick the right one for you. We’ll break down each jacket we sell, focusing on weight, fit, durability, weather resistance, and warmth.
#1 Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Jacket
This jacket is made for cold conditions, whether you’re flying seaplanes in Alaska or splitting wood in your backyard. Its rugged exterior blocks out wind and rain, and can stand up to almost any abuse. But the Bush Pilot jacket is as comfortable on the inside as it is tough on the outside, with a quilted body lining and Sherpa accents to keep you warm. It’s the bomber jacket for the modern pilot.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 10/10
- Durability: 10/10
- Fit: Full cut for looser fit
- Weight: 3.4 lbs.
- Weather resistance: 8/10
Features:
- Pleated bi-swing action back makes it easy to move your arms in the cockpit without restriction
- Sherpa accents on collar and cuffs, reminiscent of WWII bomber jackets, will keep you warm during pre-flight
- Two hand-warmer front pockets, lined in Sherpa for extra warmth and comfort
- Zippered chest pocket is perfect for storing sunglasses or displaying your ramp ID
- Quilted lining adds warmth but the low friction finish won’t grab your shirt, so it’s easy on and off
- Adjustable snap side tabs give you more room to breathe when seated, perfect for long flights
- Large cuffs easily accommodate oversized pilot watches or gloves
- Three inside chest pockets organize your cell phone and small accessories
#2 Sporty’s Leather Flight Jackets
For those cold and snowy days, go for a reliable option—the classic leather bomber. These jackets have been updated to replicate classic bomber jackets from the WWII era. Both are crafted from supple goatskin leather and feature a full cut for a looser fit.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 9/10
- Durability: 10/10
- Fit: Full cut for looser fit
- Weight: 3.8 lbs.
- Weather resistance: 9/10
Modern Leather Flight Jacket (AN-J-3)
This updated design (on the right in above picture) was created to replace the classic A-2. Officially referred to as the AN-J-3, this modern jacket removed the epaulets and added a bi-swing back and underarm gusset to make it easier to move around the cockpit. Crafted from darker brown leather, with a full cut for a looser fit.
Features:
- Bi-swing back construction offers unmatched comfort and flexibility
- Semi-aniline leather is long-lasting and easy to clean but retains a natural look
- Glove-tanned dark brown goatskin is soft and flexible
- Oversized, #10 brass YKK zippers are easy to use, even with gloves
- Three-piece underarm gusset allows for easy arm movement in the cockpit
- Authentic wool knit cuffs are warm but supremely comfortable and flexible
- Double-entry pockets: side handwarmer slots plus button-down storage pockets
- Full cut pattern for a looser fit, but with tight-fitting waist to block wind
- Wind flap behind the zipper and throat latch block out the elements
- Inside pocket with snap closure
Classic Leather Bomber Jacket (A-2)
Over 90 years ago, the original A-2 was introduced by the USAAF as “standard issue.” Since then, it has become a cultural icon, worn by World War II aces and Hollywood stars alike. Our beautiful A-2 (pictured on left above) is crafted with the original Mil-Spec #A2-98 as our guide, but updated for today’s pilot.
Features:
- Semi-aniline leather is long-lasting and easy to clean but retains a natural look
- Glove-tanned brown goatskin is soft and flexible
- Oversized, #7 brass YKK zippers are easy to use, even with gloves
- Clean one-piece back for a classic fit
- Three-piece underarm gusset allows for easy arm movement in the cockpit
- Authentic wool knit cuffs are warm but supremely comfortable and flexible
- Double-entry pockets: side handwarmer slots plus snap-top storage pockets
- Full cut pattern for a looser fit, but with tight-fitting waist to block wind
- Epaulet holders on each shoulder and snap-down leather collar
#3 Flight Outfitters Airfoil Jacket
Looking for a jacket that keeps you warm without the bulk? The Airfoil Jacket from Flight Outfitters will do just that. Engineered for comfort in cooler conditions, it’s the packable adventure layer you’ve been searching for. Weighing in at under 1 pound, the jacket is lighter than most sweatshirts but is rugged enough for your next off-the-trail mission. It’s insulated and quilted for extra comfort and features a water-repellant coating that shrugs off light rain and snow. This versatile jacket can be worn with inner or outer layers and combines classic aesthetics with technical features.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 8/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Fit: Slightly tapered fit for a more athletic cut
- Weight: Less than 1 lb.
- Weather resistance: 9/10
Features:
- Take-along design packs easily into its own pocket
- Multiple internal zip pockets
- Two zippered hand pockets
- Exterior chest pocket is perfect for your phone
- Drawcord hem seals out cold drafts
- Large cuffs accommodate pilot watches
- Soft, fleece-lined collar
#4 MA-1 Hooded Bomber Jacket
This bomber jacket is perfect for the fan of vintage style with modern appeal. With its sleek, lightweight, and waterproof design, the MA-1 became the uniform of jet jockeys during the 1950s. Although designed for colder environments, the MA-1 remains comfortable in warmer weather if left open. This latest version incorporates a hood with a drawstring, plus knitted waistband and cuffs to provide added comfort while sealing off cold air. Includes two welt-type slash pockets with snap fasteners, combination pencil/cigarette pocket with zipper on sleeve, and a wind/water-repellent exterior. The high-waist design provides comfort while sitting.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 8/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Fit: Roomier fit for layers
- Weight: 1.5 lbs.
- Weather resistance: 8/10
Features:
- Wind- and water-repellent exterior shell
- Hood with drawstring
- Warm inner lining
- Two side-insertion pockets with flaps
- Upper arm pocket with zipper and pen holder
- Knitted cuff on sleeves and hem
#5 M65 Classic Field Jacket
Originally designed for the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, the M65 classic field jacket has become a favorite among pilots and aviation enthusiasts. The distinguishing four large front pockets help keep you organized when preparing the aircraft as well as when airborne. The water-repellant exterior makes it a great option for all seasons and the removable lining helps keep you cool during those warmer times of the year.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 8/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Fit: Full cut for looser fit
- Weight: 1.65 lbs.
- Weather resistance: 6/10
Features:
- Water-repellent material
- Removable lining
- Hidden hood
- Sleeves with hook and loop fastener
#6 MA-1 Flight Jacket
For those seeking an authentic military flight jacket, the MA-1 will do the trick. This jacket is manufactured to strict the United States Air Force requirements. It features a 100% nylon outer shell that reverses to high-visibility Indian Orange for use in adverse conditions. Although designed for colder environments, the MA-1 remains comfortable in warmer weather if left open.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 6/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Fit: Full cut for looser fit
- Weight: 1.8 lbs.
- Weather resistance: 7/10
Features:
- Reversible color scheme
- Available in three colors (olive, navy, and black)
- Knit collar, waistband, and cuffs for added comfort while sealing off cold air
- High-waist design provides comfort while sitting
- Four welt-type slash pockets (two inside, two outside) with snap fasteners
- Combination pencil/cigarette pocket with zipper on sleeve, and pencil point protectors
#7 Sporty’s Cotton A-2 Jacket
This handsome jacket has the same time-honored styling as the Leather A-2 Flight Jacket that’s been a favorite of aviators since the 1930s. The lighter weight 100% cotton fabric makes it an excellent multi-season jacket in a style with proven performance.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 6/10
- Durability: 6/10
- Fit: Full cut for looser fit, elastic waist
- Weight: 1.8 lbs.
- Weather resistance: 4/10
Features:
- Leather collar
- Epaulet holders with leather accents
- Top- and side-entry pockets (left pocket has hidden pen/pencil holder)
- Large inside pocket
- Heavy-duty YKK zipper with leather pull tab
- 100% nylon sleeve lining
- Elastic waist and cuffs that provide added comfort while sealing off cold air
#8 Flight Gear Lightweight Jacket
Bulky coats can get in the way in tight cockpits, which makes a lightweight, simple jacket perfect for small airplanes. The Flight Gear Jacket has the right combination of warmth and weight. Pilot-friendly features extend beyond the high-quality construction, including a hood that can be tucked away and hidden in a special pocket sewn into the collar. Cuffs at the end of the sleeves are elastic with a hook and loop adjustment to help seal out the wind. Two side pockets have zippers to keep items from falling out in the cockpit.
Ratings:
- Warmth: 4/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Fit: Full cut for looser fit
- Weight: 1.5 lbs.
- Weather resistance: 7/10
Features:
- Hood with drawstring
- Two side pockets with zippers
- Elastic cuffs with hook and loop adjustment
- Raglan sleeves
- Hanging loop
- Waist tightens with adjustable bungee
- Interior storm flap behind the zipper
