Beautiful, high quality skins and wool
Cirrus Flying Jackets
During the First World War most airplanes had an open cockpit, which meant that pilots needed a coat which would keep them warm at ever increasing altitudes and lower and lower temperatures. In 1915, while serving in France and Belgium, Royal Flying Corps pilots began wearing long leather coats but in 1926, Leslie Irvin a parachute engineer designed a sheepskin flying jacket, which became standard issue for Royal Air Force pilots during most of the Second World War. High demand during the early years of the war was so great that the Irvin company engaged subcontractors, which explains the variation of design and colours, that can be seen in early production flying jackets. The iconic Cirrus “Original” jacket faithfully respects the design and style of those original WWII shearling sheepskin jackets.
Cirrus offer two wool length options on most Sheepskin Flying Jackets. A long wool for customers who want a truly authentic jacket, or short wool for those who require a lighter-weight jacket which can also be worn in mild weather, and offers more freedom of movement. Both wool lengths are available with the original mid-brown distressed outer skin or for a more contemporary look, a smooth black outer skin. Cirrus Ladies Flying jackets are also manufactured from our “exclusive Firefly” sheepskin. A mid-brown, smooth sheepskin outer with a wonderfully soft, cream colour wool.
Top grade sheepskin is increasingly difficult to source and has risen dramatically in price because people now recognise it as a beautiful, natural by-product material, with a timeless appeal that will keep looking good for many years. This can affect our ability to always supply the materials listed in our brochure or on our website. Please phone our Tailors direct for the latest availability or to discuss the most suitable product and options for your needs on +44 (0) 1379 853 129.
Cirrus Leather Jackets
Cirrus leather jackets are either made from our exclusive 3mm steerhide or from high quality 1mm -1.5mm leather, sourced from the finest tanneries in the world. Only customers who order Bespoke leather jackets have access to our fabulous Steerhide range. Steerhide is extremely durable and will take many months to wear-in but it is almost certain that our Steerhide jacket will outlive it's owner. The fabrication techniques we employ are the same as were employed in the 1930’s and we place great emphasis on the quality and fit of each jacket. Please be patient if you order a Cirrus Steerhide jacket, because the extremely tough leather makes it difficult to work and it takes 3 days to hand-make one jacket.
Cirrus Luggage
Cirrus luggage and bags are designed to be rugged and practical. They hark back to an era when things were made to last. 3oz steerhide is wonderfully durable and looks better with use and age. Cirrus luggage is also available in hardwearing canvas, which can be lined with waterproof Ventile® which is made from 100% densely woven cotton, used in many military and medical applications.
Cirrus briefcases are usually made from a lighter grade leather, but like most of our products we can adjust the specification to suit your needs.
