Five Star A-2 Fit Help

[Johnfromthewestcoast]

Hi everyone,

I've been reading extensively and trying to get an idea of how to get a proper fit on my. next A-2 purchase, but the proper fit is so relative I have decided to reach out for some assistance from the experts.
I purchased a 1939 Werber sized 38 earlier this year from Five Star. It's an absolutely gorgeous jacket, its aging beautifully and for the price it can't be beat, however the size is just not working out.
I am 6'2", 190 lbs, 34 waist and a 41-42 chest. I initially inquired to Shawn regarding a slim fitting jacket and was recommended the Werber in 38 based on my measurements. I know that WWII repros lack a bi-swing back, gussetted shoulders and all of that that gives them a more shirt fit than that of a traditional jacket so I will need to move up a size or two to actually function in my jacket. I was looking at a Bronco from Five Star, as they have similar slim measurements and lack a collar stand, but am open to suggestions. Can you guys give me some input on whether I should size up to a 40 or 42 based on these pics? I would like a little more traditional WW2 look with a little more overhang on the knits. I have a Wested Raiders jacket in 42 that feels fairly loose due to the action-back and wider shoulders, but I feel that 42 might be my A-2 size as well.

Apologies for the picture quality, trying to do this alone. I can get some better shots

when I have someone to take them for me at a later time. Any feedback/recommendations is appreciated.

 

[coolhandluke]

I would recommend going with whatever size allows for a chest measurement that is at least 4" larger than your chest size. Anywhere from 4" - 6" is common. Slim fitting A-2's are not comfortable or functional whatsoever.

5*'s sizing chart is a bit wonky and they tend to be oversized for their tagged size. You would be a 44 or 46 in a jacket from most other manufacturers.

 

[Silver Surfer]

42 long, at least. for your height and weight, a size 44 would be in order. possibly with an inch added to the sleeve and body length.

 

[Smithy]

I'm your height but slightly heavier (90kg) but I weight train so bigger in the upper body and with a 32'' waist and I'm at least a 44 in A-2s.

Last thing you want is a too trim A-2. The basic pattern is unforgiving to begin with - it's essentially a leather shirt, so you need to have some room to move in the thing.

 

[Smithy]

...I should add that contracts vary greatly in terms of fit. Broncos for example are trim in the body, so you really need to be trim yourself for the pattern to work well.

This is why finding a good fit in A-2s takes a bit of trial and error. It's very rare for someone to hit a home run on their first go.

For me, I can go a 44 in some contracts but I'd need a 46 in some others.

 

[Johnfromthewestcoast]

Thanks so much for the replies everyone. The Bronco in 42 would provide six inches of slack over my traditional chest measurement, I was almost worried it would be too much. I generally avoid "long" sizes as my arms are not quite as long as you would expect for someone of my height, also why I'm leaning towards the Bronco as they along with the Werbers tend to run on the longer side. I'm essentially trying to avoid that baggy, presidential A-2 look. I'm fairly slim for a man entering middle age, but perhaps not slim enough for a Bronco?

 

[Camel24hrs]

Thanks so much for the replies everyone. The Bronco in 42 would provide six inches of slack over my traditional chest measurement, I was almost worried it would be too much. I generally avoid "long" sizes as my arms are not quite as long as you would expect for someone of my height, also why I'm leaning towards the Bronco as they along with the Werbers tend to run on the longer side. I'm essentially trying to avoid that baggy, presidential A-2 look. I'm fairly slim for a man entering middle age, but perhaps not slim enough for a Bronco?

I got a Bronco in goat from them. Not a big fan of it. They put the back seam to far forward and that causes the epaulets to sit on front of the shoulder instead of up top of the shoulders.
Don’t know about their Weber as I never had one. You can make adjustments to their jackets free of charge. But be aware whatever you buy the Horsehide will shrink up in a couple of months. Most manufacturers have this issue. So whatever length you want I suggest getting it an inch longer.
What ever you measure your chest at go 4” larger for trim fit. Go 6” larger for relaxed fit.

 

[Thomas Koehle]

You know for sure that period pics show all varieties of "fit": smaller guys wearing kinda oversized A2 - taller dudes with very short sleeves aso.

As for your jacket i do not see an urgent need to go into any other size-range except the sleeves (should be at least an inch longer) and chest - bodx length would be perfect for me but thats just my personal preference.

My experience is that the material of your jacket plays an essential role in how your stuff fits.

Steerhide is different to goat or horse so depending on what leather you used on your WERBER you might take into consideration to go with a differetn leather.

For me personally i like the cut of the ROUGH WEAR most - i'm about 1.90/6.2" and 100 kgs.

And again - some dudes might find my jackets a thad too trim but that's how i like it most ... = personal preference