Men Dark Brown RAF Shearling Jacket

Men Dark Brown RAF Shearling Jacket

The Men Dark Brown RAF Shearling Jacket follows the British flying jacket tradition rather than the American one. The two developed separately during the same period and to the same problem, and the differences between them are worth knowing if you are choosing between this and a B3.

• Material: Genuine shearling sheepskin
• Fit: Regular fit, generous by design
• Closure: Front zip
• Color: Dark brown with natural wool
• Color note: Dark hides show winter grime far less than tan
• Care: Brush the wool, wipe the hide, specialist cleaning only

British versus American flying jackets

The RAF pattern, associated with Leslie Irvin's designs, typically ran fuller and squarer through the body with a broad shawl-style collar, and used darker brown hides. The American B3 used the strapped collar and a slightly shorter body.

Both solved the same problem — keeping stationary crews warm in unheated aircraft — with the same material, and the reason both persist is that neither has been improved on for static cold. Which you prefer is largely a matter of which silhouette you like.

Shearling construction

One sheepskin tanned with the fleece attached: hide outward against wind, wool inward trapping air, no separate lining and no seam between shell and insulation. Wool also keeps insulating when slightly damp, unlike down.

The dark brown hide is a practical choice on a heavy winter garment — it hides road grit and salt far better than a light tan.

Fit, wear and honest notes

Take your normal size — the pattern already allows for the fleece thickness. It is heavy and bulky, and both are the warmth.

Stated plainly: this is a reproduction-style fashion jacket inspired by RAF flying jackets. It is not military surplus, it is not issued kit, and it carries no genuine service insignia, squadron markings or unit patches. Avoid heavy rain, never dry it near direct heat, and use a specialist sheepskin cleaner.

Made to order, XS to 5XL and custom

Made after you order in XS to 5XL, plus Custom — chest, shoulder, sleeve and back length. Free shipping, secure checkout, and honest pricing on genuine sheepskin.

Shop Related Styles at Leather Outlet

Related: B3 Leather Bomber Jackets for the American pattern, Shearling Jackets for the wider range, Flight Jackets for lighter leather aviators, and Men Leather Jackets for everything else. Browse at Leather Outlet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is an RAF-style jacket different from a B3?

Broadly, a fuller squarer body with a shawl-style collar and darker hide, where the B3 uses a strapped collar and a slightly shorter body.

Is this genuine RAF issue?

No. It is a reproduction-style fashion jacket with no service insignia, squadron markings or issue history.

Is the shearling real?

Yes — genuine sheepskin tanned with the wool attached.

Why dark brown?

It follows the tradition, and it hides winter grit and salt far better than a light tan.

Should I size up?

No. The pattern already allows for the fleece thickness.

How should it be cleaned?

Brush the wool, wipe the hide, and use a specialist sheepskin cleaner — never a standard dry cleaner.

Do you offer custom sizing?

Yes — XS to 5XL plus Custom to your own measurements.