Eastman Re-Issue A-2 available in standard or ‘Escape’ Virgil Hilts spec.
Eastman Leather is releasing a reproduction of the “re-issue” version of the classic WWII A-2 leather jacket. It will also be available in the same configuration as worn by Steve McQueen in his portrayal of the “Cooler King” Capt Virgil Hilts, USAAF. It even has Captain’s bars under the collar!
Below is a description of what makes a “re-issue” A-2, written by Eastman Leather.
Post WWII thousands of A-2 jackets still remained in air depots and other bases. In order that these garments would give the best continued service they were treated with a reconditioning process which involved the re painting of the outer surface of the shell.
Experience had taught that the darker a garment was the more serviceable it would not show oil stains and soiling. Because the jackets were made from aniline finished hides which tend to absorb rather than repel they were re painted with a dark brown poly-acrylate dye, which provided an altogether tougher barrier. However it transpired that this over painting method whilst initially achieving its aim, very soon started to look shabby. The over paint would crisp and flake off. This disastrous technique effectively sealed the fate of the A-2 as unsightly jackets were quickly plucked from service.
A re-issue over painted A-2 (specifically a Rough Wear contract) was worn by Steve McQueen during the filming of The Great Escape, arguably one of the most iconic uses of an A-2 jacket in motion picture history.
