The rarest and most beautiful original A-2 jackets were made from russet brown goatskin. While the Air Corps specified horsehide before World War II, contractors made a few A-2s from goatskin. Most are now in museums, but occasionally a collector brings one in to us for repair. Amazingly, these original, 70-year old A-2s usually need only minor repairs because the leather is still in excellent condition with a warm, rich patina.

The Gibson & Barnes Mark 31 is a tribute to this rare, historical A-2. It is made from large, grade-A, vegetable-tanned goatskin that has been drum-dyed and pigmented the original Air Corps russet brown color. It is then lightly glazed. Goatskin is incredibly comfortable and light-weight, but also strong and tear-resistant. A-2s made from these hides have the same rich, warm look as the original goatskin jackets.

Even though the Air Corp’s original A-2 specification required a spun silk lining, almost all A-2s were lined with cotton to reduce expense. Gibson & Barnes has meticulously reproduced the original russet brown silk lining for the Mark 31 A-2 jacket. It feels exceptionally soft, smooth and luxurious when you slip it on.

The Mark 31 A-2 also has the other features of the goatskin A-2s issued in the early 1930s, including a one-piece back, box-stitched shoulder straps, 1 3/8-inch wide storm flap, gracefully curved pocket flaps, and collar stand.

The pockets and collar are secured with size 4 black oxide nipple snaps and the neck with a nickel hook & eye. Under the storm flap, the jacket zips up with the required “interlocking fastening device”, now commonly known as a zipper.

The knit cuffs and waistband are comfortable and durable, made from pure worsted wool. Gibson & Barnes has even reproduced the original A-2 label design, complete with Air Corps contract number, and has marked the lining with the Air Corps insignia and authentic inspection stamp.

Standard Size Chart
Types Of Leather
Learn About Leather

Other items you may need:

Historical Patches

Flying Scarves