In 1945, the U.S. Army Air Force issued the Jacket, Aircrew, Heavy, Type N-3, the first of a long line of very successful N-3 style parkas. The N-3 evolved into the N-3B by 1958, described as 'for aircrew members in extremely cold environments'. The N-3B is also known as a "Snorkel Parka" because the hood can be zipped up, leaving only a small opening (the snorkel) for looking out.
This is a vintage N-3B USAF military snorkel parka with a faux-fur trim hood and the back neck label dates this to 1990. Manufactured by Greenbrier industries inc.
Used and in fair to good vintage condition with general signs of wear, discolouration to the collar trim, and a bleach mark under the hood, which can only be seen when worn up. There is some pilling to the fabric as well as a hole just above the inner back neck label.The jacket does have slightly split cuff ends on both arms on the folds, as well as 2 tiny holes on the lower right arm. Not quite perfect but a great looking original parka that has seen some action.
All my vintage listings unless otherwise stated are true vintage and have been worn before, therefore they will typically show signs of wear and will not smell like new, which is all part of the vintage look and appeal.
COLOUR: Sage Green.
SIZE: XL (UK Sizing) with a very generous 60in full external chest this could also fit size XXL, as it was designed for an oversized fit (please see below for all key measurements to check against a similar garment of your own to ensure a good fit).
FABRIC: 50% Cotton 50% Nylon Shell; 100% Polyester Interlining, Faux Fur Hood.
DETAILS:
- YKK zip front with buttoned storm flap
- Hand warmer pockets with snap entry
- 2 front lower snap flap pockets
- Arm zip cigarette and pen combination pocket
- Rib storm cuffs
- Inner drawcord waist
- Body and sleeves lined and wadded
- Back neck hanger loop
- Faux fur hood trim
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR SIZE: Please DO NOT solely rely on the listed size for your correct fit. Designers often use different measurements for sizes depending on the overall look they desire, so sizes can not only vary brand to brand but also within the same brand. Also, for vintage and pre-worn items the shape may have changed after years of being worn. The best way to ensure your correct fit is to compare the measurements listed to a similar item that fits you well.
EXTERNAL MEASUREMENTS: Please check against a similar garment of your own that fits you well, measuring flat and fully zipped or buttoned up (if applicable) on a flat surface:
A - CHEST - armpit to armpit (double for full chest): 30in (76cm)
B - SLEEVE - armpit to cuff end: 19in (48cm)
C - SHOULDER - n/a
D - LENGTH - at the centre back from the base of the collar to the hem: 33.5in (85m)
If you need any further info please give us a shout.
MIL518
