The real thing, but not the only choice

Alpha is probably the most well known supplier to the military for outerwear. Flight jackets are cut high-waisted because standard-waisted jackets bunch up and are uncomfortable while seated in the cockpit!

If you want something more comfortable for daily wear, buy a "tall" and the waistline will be more "normal", especially if you are over 5'10". These jackets are cut "roomy" for arm movement, but I recommend a size larger than your "civilian" sizes if you prefer a loose fit or intend to wear a sweater under it.

These jackets were originally wool or down filled many years ago, but now they are ALL poly-filled, which is still warm and certified for 20-degree weather. They have a very roomy fit and are comfortable in extreme cold to mild (mid-60-deg) weather.

I also recommend the "Knox Armory" brand MA-1 jackets. They are made by Alpha, but cut to "civilian" specs so they will size like any other off-the-rack jackets. The Knox brands are not certified to 20-deg temps, but are still quite comfortable from mid-30 to mid-60 degree temps. This is mainly due to Alpha's use of a slightly less durable, thinner nylon. The Knox brands are also sewn to the same military specs as their Alpha brothers, so you're NOT buying a "cheap" copy; you are buying an Alpha made with non-military spec materials. At half the price of an Alpha, the Knox is a no-brainer alternative to an Alpha. Overall, both are great jackets.

Avoid cheap imitations - you get what you pay for!!

[Tuesday, December 25, 2007]

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