Cockpit USA Sizing Chart and Measuring Guide
- jamesjordan
- Jun 28
- 3 min read
Cockpit USA jackets — the B-3, A-2, G-1, and Hooded B-3 — all run on military specification measurements. Understanding how those measurements translate to a correct fit before you order saves the time and cost of returning or exchanging a jacket. Here is a complete guide to measuring for any Cockpit USA flight jacket.
The Three Key Measurements
For any Cockpit USA jacket, you need three measurements: chest circumference, shoulder width, and sleeve length. These three numbers will identify your correct size for any model in the line. For the B-3 specifically, chest is the most critical measurement due to the shearling interior bulk. For the A-2 and G-1, chest and shoulder are equally important.
How to Measure Your Chest
Stand upright with your arms relaxed at your sides. Wrap a flexible measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the floor and passing under your armpits. Keep the tape snug but not tight — you should be able to slip two fingers under it. Record the measurement in inches. Add 4 to 6 inches to this number for the B-3 (to account for shearling interior volume) when checking it against the size chart. For the A-2 and G-1, add 2 to 3 inches.
How to Measure Your Shoulder Width
Stand upright and have someone measure from the outermost point of your left shoulder to the outermost point of your right shoulder across the back — not over the shoulders, across the flat of the back at shoulder level. This measurement helps identify whether you need a larger size for shoulder fit even if your chest measurement falls in the next size down.
How to Measure Sleeve Length
With your arm slightly bent, measure from the top of your shoulder (the shoulder point at the very top of the arm) to the end of your wrist. This is your sleeve length. For Cockpit USA military-spec jackets, sleeve lengths tend to run slightly shorter than modern fashion outerwear. If you are between sleeve lengths, sizing up in the body may provide the additional sleeve coverage you need.
Model-by-Model Sizing Notes
B-3 Sheepskin Bomber: Size up from your standard jacket size due to shearling interior volume. If between sizes, go up. A-2 USAF Goatskin: Closer to true size. If you plan to layer over a sweater, size up one. G-1 Antique Lambskin: True to military spec. The lambskin is lighter than the B-3 sheepskin. Hooded B-3: Same guidance as the standard B-3 — size up and account for the additional hood volume.
What a Correct Fit Looks Like
In any correctly sized Cockpit USA jacket: 1 to 2 inches of room across the chest when zipped. Shoulder seams at or just outside your actual shoulder points. Arms raised to shoulder height without the back pulling up. Wristband landing at the wrist with a slight natural cuff. The jacket should feel purposeful and structured, not loose or baggy — these are military-spec cuts, not fashion relaxed fits.
When in Doubt
Contact Legendary USA before ordering. As an authorized Cockpit USA dealer with hands-on experience fitting customers in these jackets, they can advise based on your specific measurements and the model you are considering. Getting the size right matters — these are investment pieces built to last decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cockpit USA jackets run large or small?
They run to military spec — a straighter, box-like cut. The B-3 typically requires sizing up due to shearling bulk. The A-2 and G-1 run closer to true size.
What measurements do I need to size a Cockpit USA jacket?
Chest circumference, shoulder width, and sleeve length are the three key measurements for any Cockpit USA model.
Should I size up for the B-3?
Yes. The shearling lining significantly reduces available interior space. Most buyers size up one from their standard jacket size.
Can I wear a Cockpit USA jacket over a sweater?
Yes, but size up when ordering if regular layering is your plan. The leather body and shoulders do not stretch.
Where can I buy Cockpit USA jackets with sizing guidance?
Legendary USA is an authorized Cockpit USA dealer and can help with sizing. Shop at legendaryusa.com/collections/cockpit-usa.
