How should a B3 fit?

[Xopher]

This is probably a really dumb question but I have been unable to find the answer myself. I have a B3 by Orchard Branded Leathers in a size 42. I measured my chest and I am almost exactly 42 inches but when I wear size 42 jackets they feel fairly snug in the shoulders even with only a t-shirt, for instance when I have both my hands up on the steering wheel driving the jacket gets tight across my back almost on the verge of stretching a bit. When I wear size 44 jackets they fit my shoulders so I can move around rather well but the chest and stomach area is just stupid baggy. How was a B3 supposed to fit back during the war. How much layering do you folks usually wear under your B3s. Im wondering if I just have abnormally broad shoulders, which I am hoping isnt the case because having a B3 custom made would be painfully expensive.

 

[Capesofwrath]

I think aircrew wore a lot under them. It was bloody cold in winter at bombing height over Germany. RAF aircrew wore sweaters and their short issue jackets under theirs. I've got a Cirrus B3 copy and wear a light sweater when it's cold and I'm going into a local town. But when it's really cold and I'm walking the dog in the countryside where I live I wear a Guernsey and thick shirt under it.

 

[Atticus Finch]

They wore all they could under their B-3 jackets, including the Blue Bunny suit. This was an electrically heated, one piece suit that plugged into the side of the aircraft. In WWII, if you were wearing a B-3 over only a t-shirt, your jacket would be fitting very loosely, indeed.

AF

 

[rocketeer]

The thing is how do you wish to wear the jacket? Are you re-enacting or just casual? I like to wear mine with just a T shirt on a casual day to day basis. Went for a stroll yesterday in the wind so added a scarf to keep drafts out. I love the feel of the wool and how warm the jacket is(Eastman Roughwear) though if it were really cold I may wear a jumper with it. I drive with mine un zipped usually to prevent the bunch up effect, mind, driving a convertible or jeep type vehicle , this may be a bit chilly.
Historically you may come across pics of crew wearing A2s under theirs as well, though the jacket was usually worn with the sheepskin flying pants underneath, they were quite high waisted so the short jacket was more practical. And it was just as cold during the summer at 25,000ft.

 

[Dumpster Diver]

I would strongly recommend Going two sizes bigger than your measurement. The warmth between you and the Fleece needs some breathing space to create a Sleeping bag effect of warm air. Trust me, you need the extra space.

Im 6 foot, and between 160-180 pounds and fit into a 40-44 regular, but the B-3s I have in a 46 are the Ticket!