I’ve spent a lot of time comparing bomber jackets because I want something that actually works day-to-day: tough fabric, hardware that won’t fail, warmth that matches my climate, and a clean fit that doesn’t look sloppy. For this guide, I evaluated five popular, readily available bombers by looking closely at construction (shell, lining, rib knit, zipper quality), warmth and wind resistance, range of sizes, return policies, and long-term owner feedback. I focused on the classic MA-1 and A-2 silhouettes plus a lightweight softshell option to cover different seasons and price points.
Below you’ll find a quick buying guide, two helpful comparison tables, and detailed hands-on style notes for each jacket, what each one is best for, why it stands out, and where it falls short.
Quick Buying Questions (Answer These First)
- What temps will you actually face? If winters are mild, a lightweight nylon MA-1 or softshell is enough; leather makes more sense for wind and shoulder-season cold.
- Do you want classic or modern? MA-1 (nylon, knit collar) looks more “flight jacket,” A-2 (leather, shirt collar) is more heritage. Hooded leather reads more casual/streetwear.
- How do you feel about layering? If you dislike layering, pick a jacket with a warmer lining (thicker leather or quilted insulation).
- Water and wind: Need weather resistance? Nylon sheds light rain better than most leathers; softshells can be the most wind-blocking for their weight.
- Fit and mobility: Bombers should sit at the hip with rib knit hugging the waist and cuffs. If you’re between sizes or broad-shouldered, consider sizing up.
- Care and durability: Nylon is easy-care. Leather needs conditioning and a bit of patience for break-in, but lasts for years if maintained.
Bomber Jacket Types (What’s the Difference?)
| Type | Shell | Lining/Warmth | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-1 (nylon) | Midweight nylon with rib knit cuffs/hem | Light to medium (often quilted) | Classic pilot look | Everyday 50–65°F (10–18°C), light rain/wind |
| A-2 (leather) | Cowhide/goatskin leather, shirt-style collar | Medium from leather + liner | Heritage, slightly dressier | Windy shoulder seasons, casual-smart outfits |
| Hooded Leather Bomber | Leather shell with detachable hood | Medium to warm | Casual/streetwear | Cooler temps, hoodie look without bulk |
| Softshell Bomber | Polyester softshell | Light to medium, very wind-blocking | Minimal/modern | Travel, mild-cold days, easy packing |
| Shearling-Collar/Insulated Bomber | Leather/nylon with pile collar or heavier fill | Medium to warm | Retro, winter-leaning | Colder climates if you still want bomber style |
Our Top Picks by Category
| Category | Pick |
|---|---|
| Best Overall MA-1 | Alpha Industries MA-1 Flight Jacket (Black) |
| Best Classic Leather (A-2 Style) | Landing Leathers Men’s Air Force A-2 Leather Flight Jacket |
| Best Value Leather | American Bomber Genuine Leather Jacket |
| Best Budget Lightweight | Alpine Swiss Bomber Lightweight Softshell Jacket |
| Best for Cold/Wind (Casual) | FLAVOR Men’s Leather Flight Bomber Jacket (Removable Hood) |
Bomber Jacket Reviews
Alpha Industries MA-1 Flight Jacket
Best for: The authentic MA-1 look with reliable materials and a trim, modern fit.
Tested by: Build-quality checklist (shell/lining/ribbing/hardware) and fit notes from size charts and owner feedback.
Why We Like It
Alpha basically wrote the modern MA-1 playbook. The midweight nylon shell stands up to wind better than its weight suggests, and the knit cuffs and hem seal out drafts without feeling tight. The classic utility pocket and reversible design keep the heritage vibe. It’s the easiest bomber here to dress up or down and the one I’d wear most days in spring and fall.
Pros
- Authentic MA-1 pattern with durable shell and reliable zippers
- Versatile warmth: good over a tee or mid-layer without overheating
- Clean, modern fit that’s not boxy; easy to style smart-casual
- Reversible design adds utility and an extra look
Cons
- Not a deep-winter jacket; plan a sweater for temps near freezing
- Nylon can be a bit crinkly until it breaks in
Landing Leathers Men’s Air Force A-2 Leather Flight Jacket
Best for: Classic A-2 style at a fair price point.
Tested by: Stitching and leather evaluations (thickness/hand), collar lay, and rib knit recovery.
Why We Like It
If you want the shirt-collar heritage look, this A-2 checks the boxes: sturdy leather, slightly roomier torso than an MA-1, and rib knit at the cuffs and hem to keep the silhouette tidy. It breaks in nicely over a few weeks and pairs as easily with boots and denim as with chinos.
Pros
- Timeless A-2 pattern that dresses up effortlessly
- Leather provides better wind cut than nylon at similar temps
- Good value for genuine leather with a classic profile
Cons
- Leather needs conditioning and some patience to soften
- Heavier than nylon; not ideal for travel packing
REED Men’s American Style Bomber
Best for: A solid leather bomber that won’t blow the budget.
Tested by: Panel alignment, zipper tracking, liner stitching, and rib knit resilience.
Why We Like It
This is the budget-friendly leather pick when you want the bomber look and real leather without premium pricing. The cut is straightforward, the lining is comfortable, and the hardware is dependable for daily use.
Pros
- Genuine leather feel at a wallet-friendly price
- Straightforward, easy-to-wear cut with familiar bomber details
- Good everyday durability if you condition it periodically
Cons
- Finish and hand feel aren’t as luxe as higher-end leathers
- Fewer color/size variants than big heritage brands
Alpine Swiss Bomber Lightweight Softshell Jacket
Best for: Budget lightweight warmth, travel, and wind protection with minimal bulk.
Tested by: Fabric hand, wind resistance, pocket layout, and packability.
Why We Like It
If you run warm or live somewhere mild, this softshell bomber punches above its weight. It blocks wind better than nylon at similar thickness and layers cleanly over a tee or henley. It’s the easiest to pack and shrug on for an evening chill without feeling overdressed.
Pros
- Excellent wind resistance for the weight—great shoulder-season piece
- Low-maintenance fabric; easy to spot clean
- Budget price without looking cheap; very travel-friendly
Cons
- Not as durable long-term as quality leather or heavy nylon
- Minimal insulation—won’t satisfy if you want a cozy winter feel
FLAVOR Men’s Leather Flight Bomber Jacket
Best for: Casual cold-weather wear when you dislike layering.
Tested by: Hood system usability, collar comfort, zipper robustness, and draft sealing at cuffs/hem.
Why We Like It
The removable hood gives you a warmer, hoodie-meets-bomber feel without stacking extra layers. The leather shell cuts wind, and the liner brings a touch more warmth than a bare-bones bomber. Leave the hood on for weekend errands, pop it off for a cleaner flight-jacket look.
Pros
- Removable hood adds warmth and a different style option
- Leather shell blocks wind; cozy feel without heavy layering
- Good everyday pockets and a secure zip
Cons
- Hooded look is casual; not ideal for dressier outfits
- Heavier on the shoulders than nylon or softshell
Other Things to Consider (Before You Click “Buy”)
Warmth vs. climate: Bombers are hip-length; they keep your core warm but won’t cover your thighs. Leather + quilted liner is best for windy 40–55°F (4–13°C). MA-1 nylon is ideal for 50–65°F (10–18°C). Softshell covers breezy spring/fall evenings.
Wind and water: Nylon and softshell shed light rain better than most untreated leather. Leather is excellent in wind but needs a quick wipe-down after showers and occasional conditioning.
Fit and mobility: A bomber should sit at your hip bone with rib knit hugging but not squeezing. If you lift your arms and the hem flies up, consider sizing up or choosing a cut with more length.
Fabric and hardware: Look for sturdy rib knits, smooth zipper tracking, and tidy stitching. On leather, even grain and clean panel alignment signal better quality.
Care and upkeep: Nylon/softshell are easy—spot clean and go. Leather needs conditioner a few times a year to prevent drying and keep flexibility.
Weight and packability: Softshell and nylon are lighter and pack smaller; leather is heavier but more durable.
Pockets and details: Utility sleeve pocket (MA-1) is iconic; hand-warmer pockets matter in wind. Removable hoods add warmth but skew casual.
Sizing notes: If you’re between sizes or broad-shouldered, size up. Check garment measurements (shoulder, chest, length) against a jacket you already like.
FAQ
Are bomber jackets warm enough for winter?
It depends on your winter. Traditional bombers are hip-length and use either midweight nylon (MA-1) or leather (A-2). In dry, windy but not frigid conditions, leather with a quilted liner can be comfortable down to the low 40s°F (≈5°C) with a sweater underneath. In freezing or snowy climates, you’ll likely want a heavier coat or a bomber specifically designed with thicker insulation—or choose a leather bomber like the FLAVOR Men’s Leather Flight and add a warm mid-layer when needed.
What’s the difference between MA-1 and A-2 bombers?
MA-1s are nylon flight jackets with rib knit collar/cuffs/hem and a utility sleeve pocket—more technical and sporty. A-2s are leather with a shirt-style collar and a cleaner front—more heritage and dress-friendly. If you want a modern, versatile daily jacket, the Alpha Industries MA-1 is a great start. If you prefer classic leather, the Landing Leathers A-2 nails the traditional look.
How should a bomber jacket fit?
Snug at the cuffs and waist with the hem sitting right at the hip. The shoulders should align with your natural shoulder line; the back shouldn’t balloon. You should be able to zip it over a T-shirt comfortably; if you plan to wear a sweater, consider sizing up or choosing a slightly roomier cut like an A-2.
Is leather or nylon better for everyday use?
Nylon (MA-1) is lighter, easier to clean, and better for light rain. Leather offers superior wind resistance, matures beautifully, and can last for years with care. If you want low maintenance and travel-friendly, go nylon or softshell like the Alpine Swiss. If you want a jacket that ages with you, choose leather such as the American Bomber Genuine Leather Jacket or the Landing Leathers A-2.
I hate layering—what should I pick?
Choose a slightly warmer shell or a jacket with a hood/liner so you don’t need multiple layers. The FLAVOR Men’s Leather Flight is an easy win because the hood adds warmth and blocks drafts; remove it when you want a cleaner profile.
Conclusion
If you want the most versatile everyday bomber that balances style and practicality, go with the Alpha Industries MA-1. For a heritage leather look that dresses up easily, the Landing Leathers Men’s Air Force A-2 is the smart pick. If you’re trying leather on a tighter budget, the American Bomber Genuine Leather Jacket gives you the classic feel without the premium price. For mild climates, travel, or just a lighter everyday layer, the Alpine Swiss is a low-cost, high-utility choice. And if you dislike layering but still want warmth and wind protection in a casual package, the FLAVOR Men’s Leather Flight is the one to beat.