TPD166
One Too Many
- Messages
- 1,295
- Location
- Lone Star State
I thought I would share my thoughts and experiences with my recently purchased Pop’s Leather A-1 jacket. A couple of caveats upfront – (1) I know that the jacket is not a historically correct replica of an A-1 (or 37J1) jacket, nor was it intended to be; and (2) I am under no illusion that I look good wearing a flight jacket – it is readily apparent to me that this fine jacket looks much better on the hanger than on me. But on both points, I am personally quite pleased with the jacket! That being said, about the jacket . . .
The Pop’s A-1 is available with a host of options and comes standard with a leather collar. I am a huge fan of the A-1 type jacket (and already have one), but did not want the leather collar; I also like the 37J1 jacket, but not a fan of the high pockets. So I asked Pop’s if they could add a 37J1 varsity collar with a snap (and bottom snaps instead of buttons) – not only could they do so, they reduced the price $20 for going with a knit collar. I was well aware of Pop’s great reputation, but was concerned with taking my own measurements, and they requested that some measurements and photos be redone. But they know what they’re doing. They offer a number of leather and color choices and I went with Antique Dark Brown Calfskin (color shown best in the collar photo). The jacket had been ordered on February 9 and it was in-hand on February 24 (three days after the shipping notification from Turkey).
As for the jacket, I was absolutely stunned by the quality and workmanship that went into its making. Not only did I get the jacket exactly as ordered, the fit is incredible. The leather is quite soft but has some weight to it, the knits are high quality, it has a one-piece back and one-piece sleeves, a “silky” liner like a G-1, hidden hand-warmer pockets, G-1 type map pocket, zippered interior pocket, and pen pockets. Going back the fit, the jacket fits like a shirt – when you move, it moves with you. When reaching there is no “pulling” as with my other flight jackets. This is hands-down the finest jacket I own and Pop’s will be getting more of my business.
The Pop’s A-1 is available with a host of options and comes standard with a leather collar. I am a huge fan of the A-1 type jacket (and already have one), but did not want the leather collar; I also like the 37J1 jacket, but not a fan of the high pockets. So I asked Pop’s if they could add a 37J1 varsity collar with a snap (and bottom snaps instead of buttons) – not only could they do so, they reduced the price $20 for going with a knit collar. I was well aware of Pop’s great reputation, but was concerned with taking my own measurements, and they requested that some measurements and photos be redone. But they know what they’re doing. They offer a number of leather and color choices and I went with Antique Dark Brown Calfskin (color shown best in the collar photo). The jacket had been ordered on February 9 and it was in-hand on February 24 (three days after the shipping notification from Turkey).
As for the jacket, I was absolutely stunned by the quality and workmanship that went into its making. Not only did I get the jacket exactly as ordered, the fit is incredible. The leather is quite soft but has some weight to it, the knits are high quality, it has a one-piece back and one-piece sleeves, a “silky” liner like a G-1, hidden hand-warmer pockets, G-1 type map pocket, zippered interior pocket, and pen pockets. Going back the fit, the jacket fits like a shirt – when you move, it moves with you. When reaching there is no “pulling” as with my other flight jackets. This is hands-down the finest jacket I own and Pop’s will be getting more of my business.
I like the color, and the construction looks nicely done. You wear it well also..Congratz! 
