Description:

Irvin started producing flying jackets before WW11 in the USA, adopted by the RAF and essential for bomber crew flying winter nights. They were RAF standard issue until the latter part of the war.

After starting as an apprentice at Cooper Cars works in Surbiton making steering wheels,  Simon Green then moved to HWM , also making steering wheels for these cars. After the tragic death of John Heath he started his own business in Brighton Road, Surbiton making steering wheels, his first customer being Alfred Moss, Stirling's father, who ordered two!  This business grew and because of his personal interest in flying he approached Irvin for permission to manufacture their flying jackets in the UK. The business prospered and now operate near Thruxton, their flying jackets sold under the Aviation Leathercraft banner.

I bought his jacket from their Brighton Road premises in the late 1970s and it is in good well cared for condition although the sheepskin outer tends to crack, as they all do, and there is a small sewn tear on the rear. As original it does not have pockets. Snug and cosy, ideal for leisure wear and of course perfect for travel in open vintage and sports cars. Still in production the new price is around £1200.

Also of interest might be a leather WWII RAF flying helmet, a leather Tank Driver helmet and a pair of Mk8 goggles. Happy to provide extra pics of these and the jacket.

Can be seen in Bristol and happy to ship to a UK address at cost.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keyword Search Terms:

Simon Green, Moto-Lita. Irvin, Aviation Leathercraft, flying jacket,