Mens A2 Real Goatskin Leather Pilot Flying Jacket

Mens A2 Real Goatskin Leather Pilot Flying Jacket

This A-2 pilot jacket is made from goatskin, which is the hide most closely associated with the original wartime contracts and the one that gives the A-2 its distinctive surface. If you have ever wondered why old flight jackets have that visible pebbled texture, this is the reason. It sits in our aviator and pilot leather jackets range.

• Material: Genuine goatskin with a natural pebble grain
• Fit: Classic A-2 cut, close through the body
• Closure: Front zip with knitted cuffs and waistband
• Color: Vintage brown
• Care: Dry wipe, condition twice a year, store on a broad hanger

Why goatskin, and what the pebble grain is

Goat hide has a naturally raised, irregular grain — small ridges and dimples that come from the follicle pattern of the animal, not from any embossing. It is unmistakable once you have seen it, and it is the surface that makes a goatskin A-2 look immediately different from a smooth cowhide one. Goatskin was chosen for later A-2 contracts for practical reasons: it is lighter than cowhide, unusually strong for its weight thanks to a tight fibre structure, and it stays supple in cold conditions where heavier hides stiffen.

How goatskin behaves over time

It breaks in fast — far quicker than cowhide — and the raised grain wears down at contact points, so shoulders and elbows become smoother and lighter than the rest of the jacket. That uneven wear is exactly what produces the look people pay a premium for in vintage flight jackets, and it is worth letting happen rather than trying to prevent. Condition twice a year with a clear conditioner and it will look better every year.

The vintage finish

The brown here is finished to look aged from the start — uneven depth, darker in the creases, lighter on the raised grain. Combined with goatskin's natural texture it produces considerable depth in daylight, and the jacket skips the stiff, new-looking phase entirely.

Stated plainly: this is a fashion jacket in the A-2 style, not military-issue equipment. It carries no insignia, patches, or affiliation with any armed force.

Sizing and made to order

The A-2 is meant to fit close through the chest and short in the body. Measure your chest over a T-shirt and take the size that fits snugly — goatskin relaxes quickly. Sizes run XS to 5XL, with Custom taking chest, waist, shoulder, sleeve, and body length.

Shop Related Styles at Leather Outlet

Browse the aviator and pilot leather jackets, our bomber leather jackets, the men leather jackets range, or B3 leather bomber jackets. Everything is at Leather Outlet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pebble grain?

Goat hide's natural follicle pattern — raised ridges and dimples in the surface, not an embossed texture.

Why was goatskin used for A-2 jackets?

It is lighter than cowhide, very strong for its weight, and stays supple in cold conditions.

Does it need breaking in?

Much less than cowhide. Goatskin is comfortable quickly.

Will the grain wear down?

At the shoulders and elbows, yes — and that uneven wear is what creates the sought-after vintage look.

Is this military issue?

No. It is a fashion jacket in the A-2 style, with no insignia or affiliation.

Do you offer custom sizing?

Yes. Choose Custom and send chest, waist, shoulder, sleeve, and body length.

Is shipping free?

Yes, free worldwide shipping and secure checkout.