Cockpit USA Flight Jackets: The Complete Brand Guide for Buyers

If you're serious about buying a flight jacket and you've done any research, you've encountered Cockpit USA. They are, by most measures, the gold standard for American military flight jacket reproduction. This guide covers everything — the brand's history, their current lineup, how to size correctly, and where to buy. Consider it your complete entry point into the Cockpit USA world.

Who Is Cockpit USA?

Cockpit USA was founded in New York in 1975. From the beginning, their mission was to reproduce authentic American military flight jackets — the A-2, B-3, G-1, and related outerwear — using the same specifications, materials, and construction methods used for original military production. That commitment earned them the U.S. Air Force contract as the official supplier of the A-2 flight jacket. They manufacture in the United States. They have maintained both their quality standard and their USAF relationship for fifty years.

The Full Lineup: What Cockpit USA Makes

B-3 Shearling Bombers: The warmest jackets in the lineup. Four models: Men's B-3 (standard), Pearl Harbor (WWII period-accurate reproduction), 100 Mission (tribute to 100-mission bomber crews), and Hooded B-3 (maximum cold-weather version with integrated shearling hood). All use genuine sheepskin shearling.

A-2 Flight Jackets: Three models. USAF A-2 in goatskin (official Air Force model), Flying Tigers A-2 in horsehide (most durable and visually striking), Antique Lambskin A-2 (softest leather, broken-in appearance from day one).

G-1 Navy Flight Jacket: The U.S. Navy's flight jacket in antique lambskin with a fur collar. Distinguished from the A-2 by its collar style, hip pockets, and slightly fuller cut.

British RAF Shearling Bomber: Cockpit USA's interpretation of the British Royal Air Force's WWII shearling jacket. Similar warmth to the B-3 with distinctly British design details.

How to Size Cockpit USA

Cockpit USA jackets are cut to military dimensions rather than contemporary fashion sizing. Most buyers find that sizing up from their usual size accommodates layering under the jacket in cold weather — particularly important for the B-3 and shearling models designed for severe cold. Measure your chest and consult the size chart at Legendary USA, which includes model-specific guidance.

Where to Buy Cockpit USA Jackets

Buy from an authorized Cockpit USA dealer. Authorized dealers source directly from Cockpit USA, provide accurate product information, and stand behind the warranty. Legendary USA is an authorized Cockpit USA dealer carrying the complete lineup. Every model described in this guide — all B-3 variants, all A-2 variants, the G-1, and the British RAF — is available at Legendary USA.

Care and Maintenance

Keep leather dry. If it gets wet, dry it naturally away from direct heat. Condition the leather two or three times per year with a quality leather conditioner. Hang — don't fold — for storage. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight. With this basic care routine, a Cockpit USA jacket will maintain its quality for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cockpit USA? An American flight jacket manufacturer founded in 1975, based in New York, and the official USAF supplier of the A-2 flight jacket.

Are Cockpit USA jackets made in America? Yes. All Cockpit USA production is based in the United States.

What is the most versatile Cockpit USA jacket? The USAF A-2 in goatskin — wearable in fall and mild winter, pairs with most wardrobes, the official Air Force model.

What is the warmest Cockpit USA jacket? The B-3 shearling bomber variants. The Hooded B-3 provides the maximum cold-weather protection.

Where can I buy the complete Cockpit USA lineup? At Legendary USA, an authorized dealer, at legendaryusa.com/collections/cockpit-usa.