The coat originally made for fighter pilots has come a long way. Here, we highlight the bomber jacket and its styles trending right now.
The bomber jacket hails back to World War I when pilots needed an extra-warm jacket for use without an enclosed cockpit. Then, in World War II, pilots needed an extra layer for warmth during bombing raids above 25,000 feet. And you can bet it was cold up there.
The result was the ever iconic — and badass — bomber jacket. It sports zipper closures, snug cuffs, and a snug waist. And most often today, bomber releases showcase an urban aesthetic, worn unzipped for a relaxed look.
5 Stylish Bomber Jackets
Mission Workshop: The Mission Bomber
The Mission Bomber is the most teched-out jacket in the brand’s Advanced Projects series. Mission Workshop claims this jacket works from 32 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The brand placed PrimaLoft Gold Active insulation inside for warmth and breathability. And the jacket repels water thanks to a DWR finish.
Lululemon: About-Face Bomber
One side of the About-Face Bomber sports quilted insulation, and the other houses lululemon’s stretchy Warpstreme fabric. This reversible bomber has 700-fill-power goose down insulation, repels water, and is basically two jackets in one!
The About-Face Bomber releases on November 6.
prAna Showdown Bomber Jacket
Like the lululemon About-Face Bomber above, prAna’s Showdown Bomber Jacket is stuffed with down insulation. The jacket meets Responsible Down Standard certifications, uses eco-friendly dye, and sports a PFC-free DWR finish. Plus, the Showdown escapes from the too-common single-color bomber jacket.
Filson: C.C.F. Bomber and Quilted Utility Jacket
Filson released two bomber jackets in its new C.C.F. workwear line this fall. The C.C.F. Bomber Jacket is made with rugged cotton duck canvas. It looks ready for tools and manual labor. The Quilted Utility Jacket is more stylish, with a diamond-quilt pattern and synthetic insulation.
Smartwool Smartloft 120 Bomber Jacket
Smartwool uses 50 percent recycled wool insulation inside this bomber for warmth. Plus, the brand places merino in the next-to-skin liner for comfort, ease of movement, and sweat and odor management.
