G-1 Wings of Gold Leather Bomber Jacket
The G-1 is the US Navy's flight jacket, and it differs from the Army's A-2 in ways that matter. It has a shearling collar rather than a leather one, a bi-swing back that lets the shoulders move, and a shorter, wider body. It is the jacket most people picture from naval aviation films, and it remains the warmest and most comfortable of the classic flight patterns.
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Material: Real leather with a shearling collar
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Fit: Regular G-1 fit with bi-swing back
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Closure: Front zip with shearling collar
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Color: Brown with natural shearling
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Care: Dry cloth on the leather, brush the collar, never wash
G-1 against A-2
Three differences. The collar: shearling on a G-1, a flat leather shirt collar on an A-2. The back: a G-1 has a bi-swing back, with pleats behind each shoulder blade that expand when you reach forward. And the body: a G-1 is shorter and wider, with a knitted waistband rather than a straight hem.
The bi-swing is the detail worth understanding. Reaching forward in a leather jacket normally pulls the whole thing tight across the back; the pleats let the shoulder blades move independently. It was designed for pilots working controls in a confined cockpit, and it is the reason a G-1 is noticeably more comfortable than most leather jackets.
The shearling collar
Real shearling rather than a synthetic pile. It sits high around the neck, blocks wind at the gap every jacket otherwise leaves, and folds down flat when you do not want it up.
Because it is natural wool, brush it with a soft brush rather than wiping it, and never soak it. Shearling that has been wet should dry naturally away from any heat source, then be brushed to lift the nap again.
Build
Real leather with enough weight to hang properly and carry the collar. Metal tooth main zip on a reinforced tape. Double-stitched seams, reinforced at the shoulders. Snap-flap pockets at the hip so contents stay put, a knitted waistband and cuffs, an interior pocket, and a smooth lining.
This is a reproduction of the G-1 pattern in new leather, not military surplus and carrying no genuine service insignia.
Fit and styling
Regular fit — short in the body and wide through the chest, as the pattern is. Take your normal size; room for a jumper is already built in. If you are between sizes go up, since a G-1 is meant to sit roomy rather than close.
Jeans and boots, over a knit or a shirt. Brown with a natural collar works with denim, cream, olive and camel. See the rest of our Men Bomber Leather Jackets, our B3 Bomber Jackets for full shearling, or Men Leather Jackets for other shapes.
Sizes and made to order
Each jacket is cut after you order. Standard sizes are XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL and 5XL, plus Custom — send chest, waist, sleeve and back length after checkout at no extra charge. Free worldwide shipping and secure checkout are included.
Shop Related Styles at Leather Outlet
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bi-swing back?
Pleats behind each shoulder blade that expand when you reach forward, so the jacket does not pull tight across the back. It is a defining G-1 feature.
How is a G-1 different from an A-2?
Shearling collar instead of a leather shirt collar, a bi-swing back, and a shorter, wider body with a knitted waistband.
Is the collar real shearling?
Yes, natural sheepskin wool rather than a synthetic pile.
Is this military surplus?
No. It is a reproduction of the G-1 pattern in new leather, with no genuine service insignia.
Is the collar removable?
Not on this pattern — the shearling collar is stitched in, as on the original.
What size should I order?
Your normal size, going up rather than down if you are between, since a G-1 is meant to sit roomy. Custom sizing is free.
How do I care for it?
Dry cloth on the leather and a soft brush on the shearling collar. Never soak the collar or dry it near a heater.
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