N-2B JACKET

The N-2B jacket was a cold-weather outerwear piece developed by the U.S. Air Force during the 1950s, designed specifically for aviators and ground crew stationed in cold climates. It was a follow-up to the earlier N-1 and N-2A jackets, offering enhanced warmth and functionality for personnel exposed to extreme temperatures in the Arctic and other frigid environments. The N-2B was primarily worn by U.S. Air Force personnel but also became a widely recognized style in civilian fashion.

The N-2B jacket featured a durable, water-resistant nylon outer shell, providing better protection against the elements than its predecessors, which had used cotton canvas. The jacket’s most notable feature was its thick, synthetic or wool insulation, designed to retain body heat in extreme conditions. The N-2B also had a distinctive, fur-lined hood, which provided added protection against wind and cold. Ribbed knit cuffs and a storm flap over the zipper helped keep warmth inside while blocking wind from entering.

In terms of design, the N-2B had a more streamlined, military-inspired look compared to earlier models, with a functional, no-nonsense aesthetic. The jacket was typically olive drab in color, featuring patch pockets on the chest and lower abdomen. The N-2B became a popular piece of military surplus outerwear in the 1960s and 1970s and continues to be a popular vintage style today.