What is the B-3?

In the 1930s, with the increasing range and altitude of aerial warfare, the U.S. Army Air Corps urgently needed cold weather対策. The B-3 jacket was created to protect the lives of crew members inside bombers, where temperatures could reach minus 30°C. Developed in 1934 as a flight jacket following the B-2 jacket, it was officially adopted as crew equipment.

The surface is made of thick sheepskin, and the lining is made of mouton. The large collar strap and waist belt are designed to provide wind protection and accommodate harness wear.

The original design is based on the Irvin jacket, which was adopted by the British Royal Air Force during the same period. It is said that the U.S. military developed a high-performance version based on that design.

In 1962, in the movie War Lover, Steve McQueen, the leading actor, wore a B-3. Men around the world were captivated by his relaxed and powerful style, wearing it over a shirt after missions, as well as in the bomber scenes.

This B-3 is a model made in accordance with the vintage style, with thick sheepskin on the surface and mouton for the lining. It reproduces the large collar strap and waist belt, and has high cold protection, making it ideal for winter outerwear.
The size is 40, which is about an L.

[Actual Measurements]
Shoulder width: Approximately 56 cm
Body width: Approximately 57 cm
Length: Approximately 54.5 cm (from the bottom of the front rib to the collar)
Sleeve length: Approximately 45 cm (from the armpit to the tip of the rib)
[Color]
Brown

[Condition]
It has faded nicely and the leather has become soft. There are no cracks in the leather, and there do not appear to be any serious scratches.
The zipper moves smoothly.

Please refrain from purchasing if you are looking for a new item or are very particular, as this is a used item.

Keywords for consideration: Toyo Enterprises, Pherrow's, Real McCoy's, Buzz Rickson's, Avirex, Alpha, Houston

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