How to Size a Cockpit USA A-2 Flight Jacket
Updated: Sep 28
The Cockpit USA USAF A-2 flight jacket is one of the most precisely spec'd jackets in aviation history. Sizing it correctly matters — the A-2 is designed with a tailored fit that differs significantly from both the B-3 bomber jacket and from modern slim-fit leather jackets. Here is what you need to know before ordering.
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The A-2 Fit Profile
The A-2 was originally designed to fit close to the body over a light uniform. Unlike the B-3 with its bulky shearling interior, the A-2 has no lining bulk — just leather, a woven interior lining, and the knit cuffs and waistband. This gives the A-2 a trimmer, more fitted silhouette. It still runs on military spec measurements, but it reads slimmer than the B-3.
How to Measure for an A-2
Measure your chest circumference at the fullest point with the tape parallel to the floor. Measure your shoulder width from outer point to outer point across the back. Measure your sleeve length from the top of the shoulder to the wrist with a slight bend in the arm. These three measurements are your baseline. The A-2 sizing is most sensitive to chest and shoulder measurements.
Fit Guidance: True to Size with Caveats
The Cockpit USA A-2 runs closer to true size than the B-3. If you are between sizes, the right call depends on intended use. If you will wear the A-2 as a standalone jacket over a shirt or light layer, go true to size. If you plan to wear it over a sweater or midlayer, size up one. The knit waistband and cuffs provide some give, but the leather body and shoulders do not stretch.
What a Correct Fit Feels Like
In a correctly sized A-2, you should have about one inch of room across the chest when zipped. The shoulder seams should sit exactly at your shoulder points or just inside them. You should be able to zip the jacket and raise your arms to shoulder height without the back riding up. If the waistband feels tight against your ribs when zipped, try the next size up.
A-2 vs B-3 Sizing — The Key Difference
If you already own a Cockpit USA B-3 and are sizing for an A-2, expect the A-2 in the same labeled size to feel trimmer and fit closer to the body. The B-3 has significant shearling interior volume; the A-2 has almost none by comparison. Some wearers who went up a size on the B-3 find they can return to their true size for the A-2.
Length and Waistband Fit
The A-2 is a waist-length jacket with a snug knit waistband. It should hit at or just below the waistband on your trousers. If the body of the jacket feels too short or the waistband sits above your belt line, you may need a longer torso fit — check the specific measurements for each size before ordering.
Contact Legendary USA for Guidance
As an authorized Cockpit USA dealer, Legendary USA can help you navigate sizing between models. If you have questions about how the A-2 fits relative to the B-3 or G-1, reach out before ordering. Getting the size right on a jacket of this quality is worth the extra step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Cockpit USA A-2 run true to size?
Closer to true size than the B-3. If between sizes and planning to layer, go up one. For wearing over a shirt only, true size is usually correct.
How is the A-2 different from the B-3 in terms of fit?
The A-2 has no shearling interior bulk, so it fits slimmer and closer to the body than the B-3 in the same labeled size.
Is the A-2 good for layering?
Yes, but size up if you plan to wear it regularly over a sweater or midlayer. The leather body has no stretch.
What material is the Cockpit USA A-2 made from?
The Cockpit USA USAF A-2 is made from goatskin leather, with knit cuffs, knit waistband, and a woven lining interior.
Where can I buy the Cockpit USA A-2?
Legendary USA is an authorized Cockpit USA dealer. Shop the A-2 at legendaryusa.com/products/cockpit-usa-mens-usaf-goatskin-a-2-flight-jacket.
