Schott’s LC1259 Black: a bomber jacket that rewrote the rules of winter warmth

In 1943 the US Army Air Force needed a flight jacket that could keep pilots alive at 25,000 feet. Schott took the B-3 specification—double-face sheepskin, 1.2 mm thick, wool pile on the inside—and turned it into a civilian legend.

From cockpit to street

The original B-3 had no zip; Schott added a heavy-duty brass zipper that runs straight down the front and is backed by a snap-button storm flap. The collar is still adjustable with two leather straps and brass buckles, and the waist is cinched with the same wide leather belts that kept the jacket from ballooning in the slipstream. Two angled hand-warmer pockets are lined with the same wool as the body, so your fingers stay warm even when the zip is open.

Built to last, designed to age

Double-face sheepskin is naturally water-resistant and windproof; the wool wicks moisture while the leather develops a rich patina over time. The seams are double-stitched with waxed thread, and the hardware—brass zippers, D-rings, buckles—is the same grade Schott has used since the 1940s. The LWG certification confirms the tannery meets strict environmental standards, so the jacket is as responsible as it is rugged.

Schott NYC began in 1913 as a raincoat factory in Manhattan. By 1928 they had patented the first zip-front jacket, and in 1943 they supplied the US Air Force with the B-3 bomber. Today every Schott jacket is still cut from the same patterns, using the same brass hardware and double-stitch construction. The brand remains family-owned, still based in New York, and still obsessed with the details that make a jacket last half a century.

Caractéristiques

100 % double-face sheepskin: 1.2 mm leather on the outside, 12 mm wool pile on the inside for insulation down to -10 °C
Windproof and naturally water-resistant without chemical treatments
Two-way brass zipper with snap-button storm flap
Adjustable collar and waist for a custom fit
Two angled hand-warmer pockets lined with wool
Reinforced seams with waxed thread
LWG-certified tannery
Cut in a relaxed, boxy silhouette that layers over sweaters or hoodies
Black dye applied to both sides of the hide for a uniform look that ages evenly
Logo embroidered on the left chest in tonal thread

Frequently Asked Questions

How thick is the sheepskin used in this jacket?

The sheepskin is double-faced, meaning it consists of two layers of leather with the wool intact, providing substantial thickness for superior insulation. While the exact measurement isn’t specified, this construction is typically around 4-5mm thick.

Does the fur on the collar require special care?

Yes, the genuine black fur collar should be kept away from direct heat sources and excessive moisture. Use a soft-bristled brush to maintain its texture, and store the jacket in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Is the zipper water-resistant?

The jacket features high-quality hardware, but the zipper itself is not specifically designed to be water-resistant. It’s best to avoid exposure to heavy rain to preserve the leather and hardware.

How does the double-faced sheepskin evolve over time?

The leather will develop a natural patina with wear, softening further while maintaining its durability. The wool side may slightly compact but will retain its insulating properties if cared for properly.

Can the waist straps be removed?

No, the waist adjustment straps are permanently attached to the jacket. They are designed to help customise the fit while maintaining the jacket’s original structure.

What type of lining does the jacket have?

The jacket is unlined, as the double-faced sheepskin provides both the outer shell and the inner lining, with the wool side acting as a natural insulator.

Is this jacket suitable for motorcycle use?

While the double-faced sheepskin offers durability and warmth, the jacket is primarily designed as a bomber-style piece rather than a dedicated motorcycle jacket. It lacks features like reinforced armour or abrasion-resistant panels for high-impact protection.

Men's Jacket Schott LC1259 BLACK