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Details
- Price $550 at alphaindustries.com
- Material 100% Cotton Sateen
- Weight 4.37 lbs / 1.98 kg
Overview
Over the years, my style has evolved from trendy to timeless. But one constant remains: my appreciation for heritage pieces with deep historical significance. Much like the Alpha Industries M-65 Field Jacket, the Alpha Industries B-10 Bomber Jacket is a garment steeped in history, originally designed as a utility piece for U.S. Army Air Force pilots during the 1940s.
The B-10 is a perfect example of military functionality becoming an enduring fashion symbol. Its classic design features—from the synthetic shearling lining to the roomy pockets—make it both stylish and practical.
The History of the B-10 Bomber Jacket
The B-10 Bomber Jacket debuted in 1943 as the first cloth-shell flight jacket for the U.S. military, replacing the leather A-2 jackets. Crafted for aviators, it was specifically designed for functionality in high-altitude, cold-weather conditions. The cotton outer shell was wind-resistant, and the luxurious (at the time) shearling lining provided warmth.
The jacket became an essential layer for crews operating in unpressurized aircraft. Its lighter weight and durability made it a favorite among pilots and ground crews alike, offering an alternative to the heavier and more restrictive leather options of its predecessors.
After its military tenure, the B-10 transitioned into civilian life. Hollywood embraced it, and iconic images of actors in bomber jackets cemented its status as a cool, rugged staple.
Style
The B-10 is military-inspired but retains a clean, modern aesthetic that can adapt to casual and semi-formal wardrobes. It comes in olive drab as well but I, as always, opted for black to align with my all-black wardrobe.
The contrasting shearling collar gives it a touch of vintage charm while maintaining functionality. The fur on the collar uses faux fur. I am not a fan of skinning animals for fashion, so faux is good. But it does give off an imitation look, making it look less premium and relatively cheap for its price point.
With a low profile collar, you can style the collar up or down without overwhelming the overall shape of the jacket, maintaining a balanced aesthetic.
Its shorter silhouette and ribbed cuffs evoke a sense of aviation heritage, with details like the epaulets and oversized front pockets adding rugged appeal.
The shorter form is a double-edged sword, taking away some versatility in styling. Even a fitted t-shirt like my Outlier Ramielust T-Shirt sticks out from the bottom. It can look unslightly depending on your base layer.
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The jacket's minimalist design is a saving grace, making it easy to pair with jeans and boots or more tailored trousers. I especially enjoy how they managed to tint the zippers black to complete the consistent black colorway throughout the jacket.
There's a flap attached to the inner zipper and this tend to stick out when you have the jacket unzipped, which makes the jacket look less clean.
Fit
The B-10 fits true to size with a slightly boxy cut, staying faithful to its original utility design. The relaxed fit allows for layering, whether it’s a merino sweater in fall or a chunky knit in winter.
At 6'0″ and 191 lbs, I found the size large to be roomy but not overly loose, striking a balance between modern fit and vintage authenticity.
There is a distinctly beefy form with this jacket that some might not like. I appreciate the heritage enough to enjoy the fit, but to some, it could look dated as a relic from the past.
Material
Alpha Industries uses a durable cotton blend for the outer shell of the B-10 Bomber Jacket, offering a balance of toughness and comfort. This material is designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear, while maintaining a soft feel that doesn’t sacrifice breathability.
The jacket’s interior features faux mouton shearling, which mimics the warmth and texture of real shearling, paying homage to the jacket’s USAAF Type B-10 roots. This synthetic lining provides warmth and comfort while being easier to care for than natural shearling.
The fold-down collar, also lined with faux mouton, enhances the jacket’s vintage appeal while offering additional protection against the elements.
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To keep out cold drafts, the B-10 incorporates wool-blend rib knit hems and cuffs. These knitted details not only improve insulation but also ensure a snug fit that helps retain body heat during chilly conditions.
The B-10 is designed to wear beautifully over time. As the cotton blend shell softens and the faux mouton lining breaks in, the jacket develops a unique patina that adds character. With proper care, this jacket is built to age gracefully, retaining its shape and performance for years to come.
Usage
The B-10 shines as a three-season outerwear. The shearling-lined collar and ribbed cuffs ensure warmth and comfort, making it a dependable choice as the only outer layer for temperatures between 50-75°F (10-24°C)
The cotton shell, while not water-resistant, offers excellent wind protection. It's worth noting that this jacket isn’t designed for heavy rain but excels in crisp, dry weather.
I seem to have some kind of allergy that makes my neck sensitive and the faux fur on the collar gently pricks into my neck. It doesn't feel uncomfortable, but can certainly be felt. The same can be felt on my exposed arms from the inner lining depending how I move my arms.
The B-10 features two large front pockets, ideal for carrying essentials like gloves or a phone. These pockets are well-placed and easily accessible, staying true to their original purpose of accommodating aviators' gear.
On the wearer's left, there's a pocket with a buttoned closure. This fits my iPhone 14 Pro Max, but you need to angle the phone in to have it completely in the pocket. Just sliding it in will end up with the top part sticking out.
While the jacket lacks handwarmer pockets and the opening of the front pockets are too awkward for you to slip your hands in. I find it hard getting to used to the lack of pockets and find myself trying to slip my hands into the non-existent pockets.
The Alpha Industries 1940S B-10 Bomber Jacket is certainly not ultralight, in fact, quite the opposite. At 4.36 lbs (1.98 kg), it's considerably bulky and might not be suitable for someone who likes traveling light.
Conclusion
The Alpha Industries 1940s B-10 Bomber Jacket is a piece of living history, seamlessly blending utility, style, and heritage. Its timeless design and practical features make it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
While the price may be a bit steep, it's worth considering for those who truly appreciate the jacket's rich heritage and craftsmanship. Whether you're a fan of vintage military style or just need a dependable cold-weather jacket, the B-10 is a worthy investment for those who value both history and quality.
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