CWU - The beginning of modern functional clothing.
The abbreviation stands for Cold Weather Uniform. A layering system developed by the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force in the early 1960s to better protect their pilots. Especially when flying at high altitudes and remote air bases, it was always a challenge to keep personnel warm and functional. During the Second World War, mainly natural fibres were used to keep pilots warm. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, researchers developed new forms of insulation using technical fibres. This made the waistcoats thinner and warmer.
Our new CWU waistcoats are part of this system. They are made of thick, padded polyamide, which is light, abrasion-resistant and highly insulating. These waistcoats are worn under the flight jacket and thus serve as a layering system.
We have made our waistcoats from the same padded polyamide fabric that was used at the time.
The following details characterise our 1965 CWU waistcoat:
-Outer fabric: 100% polyamide
-Lining: 100% polyester
-push buttons
-three patch pockets
-Made in Turkey
-Box fit