Irvin collar removal ?

[John Lever]

Apparently some WW2 pilots removed the collars from their jackets to improve visibility. Can anyone elucidate?

 

[a2jacketpatches]

Here's one thought.....http://www.network54.com/Forum/180748/t ... 7s+Collar-

 

[Peter Graham]

Apparently some WW2 pilots removed the collars from their jackets to improve visibility. Can anyone elucidate?

Sacrilege!

 

[coanda]

John,
I have certainly owned one Irvin which had a collar reduced in height. I think what is more likely with regard to Irvin's and fighter pilots was the anecdote given to me when I was fortunate enough to meet and share a few beers with Geoffrey Wellum,
He said of the Irvin Jacket,

" I never used one for flying it was just to big to fit in a Spitfire, but I wore it to the Pub as it was a great garment to assist in "Chatting up the ladies".

A true character and a true Gentleman, a real private to have spent some time with him.

Regards to all
Rick

 

[Roughwear]

I'm not saying it did not happen, but if it did I have yet to see a conventional Irvin with its collar removed in the War. However I have seen CC jackets where the hood has been cut down.

 

[TOMG1401]

The introduction of the closed canopy rendered it obsolete

 

[Roughwear]

Not immediately though as they were worn extensively by bomber crew until the end of the war. Throughout the War Irvins were worn on the ground during chilly days!