Aero 1930's half belt

[Edward]

That's a good point and I did consider it but I figure w/ zipped handwarmers I'll be ok for storage...for some reason I just don't like pockets inside a jacket. I've had them and never used them b/c I don't like disturbing the lines of the fit. Unless it's a bike jacket, those I'll stuff with every damn thing I can.

Durr, yes... I forgot you were going for zipped handwarmers. That'll give you some storage (not a bad idea, either - I have handwarmers on my jackets because I like how they look, but I've never actually used them at all).

Yeah, what the heck is up with that?? Vanson makes stupid chest pockets, too.

Historical accuracy. Best as I'm aware, those pockets were partly an echo of a breast pocket on a suit, and partly for a packet of smokes (in the UK during the later 30s, approx 50% of men smoked; I believe figures were similar in the US). They do look cool, it's just limiting in size - which is why I now opt for one inside pocket on the right for my phone and wallet.

As for pockets, maybe think about downsizing to a cardholder for cards and notes. I've used one for at least 10 years now and would never go bulky again.

Funnily enough, it was my HWM (bought stock, so no inner pocket) that got me to switch permanently to smaller wallets, as the front pocket on it is just big enough for a small wallet and my phone. The equivalent pocket on my Dustbowl would take the wallet alone - though mostly it goes with my phone, on the inside.

Having said all that, depending on the pocket arrangement, I'd also consider an open inside pocket for a phone.

That's what I do.

Of course, it's all too easy to forget that when these jackets were originally in style, most folks didn't have much cash, and didn't have half the stuff to carry around that we do today.

 

[Lone Starr]

I am also hunting a nice horse AERO 1930 brown 44 Half Belt, or even Cossack. They are hard to find and not often available unless you buy a new one. I prefer a little age to it. I found a nice AERO 1950 HB, but AeroFan_07 is correct in saying they are a bit more boxy and even wearing it feels a bit boxy. I don't really like the knit sleeve inserts either. The jacket in the last image is a fabulous fit. In my opinion it is cinched about 1.5" too much on each side and I'm not a fan of the stitching. I prefer horse. The fit is right and I think, say if you wore it every day for a year, the horsehide would relax to your body and then you may get the fit you are looking for. Good luck.

 

[AeroFan_07]

Intersting your notes ^ about the 50's vs the 30's HB. Having tried both, it's really no illusion that the 50's model is a more full cut, plus just a bit planer of style overall. Certainly not bad but different.

Consider the automotive styling of those days, at least for American cars. 30's cars had very distinct fenders seperate from the rest of the car bodies, a very distinct engine and trunk area enclosure, "butterfly" or filp up each side hoods, open headlights and turn signals, etc. By the 50's cars appears much wider (and often were) fenders had integrated with the rest of the body for the most part, hoods where hinged at the rear and were now mostly one-piece and the car simply had a larger feel to it especially with lights being integrated into the body and grill sections. Just a thought as to the differances of cut, features and finish of both.

 

[Insomnia]

The fit is spot on. How much have you pulled the side adjusting straps? The CXL hide will made the jacket a little tighter than the Vincenza.

 

[ton312]

The fit is spot on. How much have you pulled the side adjusting straps? The CXL hide will made the jacket a little tighter than the Vincenza.

I've got the straps pulled in all the way. I always do this to see how tight it can get. My bootlegger is CXL and always resides fully in as well.

 

[bluesforchallah]

I cinched up the straps on the side of my HB and took a great fitting jacket and made it feel even better.

With temps rising here in the PNW, I took the opportunity to go for a walk in the rain during my lunch break today to try and expedite the break-in process.

It's softening up and taking shape nicely.

 

[wdw]

Great looking jacket.

 

[Tomek61]

Hey Tony, if I could bear it I'd ship my 30's Steerhide HB over to you for a week or so, it's a 44 (with Insurrection specificed added body and sleeve length) and it fitss just a little more loosely than the Alexander leathers jacket that you sold to me. I have room underneith for a sweatshirt, but it's still not a boxy fit. I'll see if I could get a fit picture to you soon on it. Just for your referance I'm 6' 1" 195 lbs and have a 36" jeans waist size. I think the 44 in a 30's would be just a bit loose on you, a 42 might be on the snug side. My cafe racer, also Aero and Steerhide is a 42 and it fits nearly identical to the Alexander jacket. Thanks

I know this thread is pretty old now but if you're still following it AeroFan, would you mind letting me know the shoulder measurement for your 44 30's HB? Thanks. Also, anyone know if the premier version is actually slimmer than the standard 30's HB, or is it just detail differences, collar shape etc?