What’s the key focus of a menswear wardrobe? Is it comfort? Functionality? Style and heritage? How about a dash of each pulled from those categories and dialed down to one standout piece of outerwear?
That’s what the best bomber jackets add to your closet, with history in spades and casually cool looks to work with plenty of other style favorites.
Favored by pilots (as the name would imply), the bomber jacket rests among the cotton chino pant and the white T-shirt as durable military staples turned into versatile must-haves for the modern man.
Some of today’s 21st-century models stick to the specs of the original style, and others use rugged materials like waxed fabric and a more tailored cut. Either way, the bomber jacket is a grab-and-go style with classic appeal, and these are the ones we love now.
In my opinion, few men’s clothing brands strike the right balance between the core pillars of a menswear wardrobe – comfort, style, utility and heritage – quite like Buck Mason. That makes its Storm Stopper Bomber Jacket a true essential, with a fully lined interior, a classic fit and a water-repellent finish.
Although prized as a casual style move these days, the best bomber jackets still boast top-notch functionality. This jacket is a prime example, with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, plus a PrimaLoft insulated interior. In matters of style, it’s versatile enough for your entire wardrobe.
If ever there were a bomber jacket that defined the category, it might be the Alpha Industries MA-1.
Originally made for the military, it’s since crossed over into the mainstream, with flight nylon construction, a vivid orange lining and a wide range of sizes available for crisp, cool looks.
True menswear essentials stand the test of time, and stand out while doing so. Take Bill Kelso’s handsome, rugged and yes, timeless wares.
They’ve scoured the market for the most authentic, genuine bomber jackets out there, down to the contract, style and design awarded to the original manufacturer. The results? Impossibly stylish, useful and made to last.
The best bomber jackets have taken on many forms over the years, with different styles used for different pursuits. Bradley Mountain pays homage to the iconic G-1 with this beautiful, waxed canvas edition, using flannel-lined sleeves for comfort.
The thing I personally love about bomber jackets is the fact that you don’t have to overthink it. The style is casually cool enough to wear with jeans and a tee or with chinos and an Oxford shirt.
That’s exactly how Bonobos designed this sleek, sharp bomber jacket. The cotton-nylon blend is also lightweight and layering-friendly.
It’s like we said: The best bomber jackets pair seamlessly with everything from jeans to chinos and corduroy pants.
Everlane designed this water-resistant bomber to work with its entire line, right down to the neutral, classic color selections. Handy details like magnetic-closure pockets make for easy EDC gear access.
Bomber jackets have a true heritage in the skies, but what about high alpine summits?
Eddie Bauer himself dreamed up the legendary Skyliner Jacket, which was warm enough to help cold-weather explorers in frigid weather.
The best bomber jackets help bridge the gap between seasons, as the name of this classic L.L. Bean number indicates.
The heritage brand is true to its word, using a durable recycled nylon shell and cozy fleece lining for added warmth in inclement weather. Add your Bean Boots and cold temperatures don’t stand a chance.
In my personal experience, the bomber jacket is something you needn’t worry too much about. That is, when you wear this Alex Mill bomber jacket over a soft garment-dyed tee and stretch jeans, it functions as a slightly rugged yet polished layer, no doubt about it. Want to look cool and on-point? The best bomber jackets deliver.