If you're read Masters of the Air by Donald Miller, one thing that stands out more than anything is how unprepared the USAAF was for war in the skies over Europe in 1942-43. The early shearling and leather flight suits were bulky and utterly inadequate for the task, and so the Air Force in late 1942 set about redesigning their cold weather clothing. Introduced and standardised in July 1943, the B-11 parka was designed to be worn in combination with a B-10 and and A-10 trousers. Made of thick double faced alpaca and an outer shell of tightly woven cotton gaberdine, the jacket was designed to be wind and water resistant, and able to provide flyers with much needed warmth at altitude. This set was made by Ben Greenholtz. Keep your eyes out for photos of Chuck Yeager rocking his B-11 infront of his Mustang!
Condition
Very very usually, this is in mint condition, there is no damage at all. The fur is still thick and very pliable. The cuffs, usually trashed on these are perfect. The lining is still very rich and thick. The zipper works perfectly. She's in amazing shape. The only issue I can see is the buttons have been slight moved, obviously they were stitched on in the wrong place. It comes complete with a matching set of deadstock a-10 flight pants.
Size
- Tagged a 40
- Fits a modern large
- Pit to pit 25"
- Shoulder to shoulder 22"
- Shoulder to cuff 26"
- Collar to hem 32"
- Trousers tagged a 44