Simmons Bilt type C-3 shearling vest sizing advice

[Unrefined Vision]

https://simmonsbilt.com/collections/military/products/type-c3-vest

Hello,

I'm planning to order a Simmons Bilt type C-3 vest which will be a first for me from the perspective of ordering something made from shearling, and also in sizing a vest. Simmons Bilt offers sheepskin ranging in thickness from 12 mm to 18 mm. I am guessing that this difference in thickness could be due to the wool as well as the sheepskin itself. My plan is to go with black sheepskin with black fur (15 mm) for a subdued, warm base layer for winter months. Having only worn standard leather jackets mostly within the 3 oz leather range I was wondering if one would want to take into consideration the particular density of shearling when thinking of sizing. The logic is. that with the sheepskin on the outside and wool on the inside, comparing a shearling jacket to a leather jacket of the exact same measurements/dimensions (pit to pit, shoulders hem etc) then the shearling jacket might feel/fit a little less roomy/tighter than the leather jacket? Am I simply overthinking it?

I would guess considering measurements length certainly wouldn't be a factor, but when it comes to my standard preferred measurements of pit to pit 22.5", shoulder 18.5" to 19" and hem 20" that I might want to factor in a little extra room? With my intent to wear this for added warmth in the winter I would also want to be able to wear a thick layer underneath.

When it comes to leather vests, are there any particular considerations in terms of fit that differ than what one would generally look for in a leather jacket?

Any insight would be much appreciated!

 

[MrProper]

I can advise you against such a waistcoat.
I have a similar one and find it impractical. If I ordered a new one, it would have a V-neck and no hem at the neck. It is uncomfortable (for me) at the neck.
A shearling waistcoat is too stiff and bulky to wear under another jacket or it doesn't look good. If it's cold enough for a shearling, it's too cold without sleeves.
If you're really planning on adding 19" shoulders to a waistcoat like this, you'll look like something out of an 80s Flash Gordon film
I actually take the same measurements for shearling jackets as I do for my leather jackets, except for the length. If you want it roomy, add half an inch.

 

[TartuWolf]

A shearling waistcoat is too stiff and bulky to wear under another jacket or it doesn't look good. If it's cold enough for a shearling, it's too cold without sleeves.

^ Shearling vests make no sense to me. Perhaps indoors in some cold cabin..

 

[MrProper]

^ Shearling vests make no sense to me. Perhaps indoors in some cold cabin..

Yes, exactly. I sometimes wear my waistcoat when it's a bit chilly at home and I don't want to turn on the heating (transitional period). But I actually prefer my quilted and puffer waistcoats.

 

[Edward]

^ Shearling vests make no sense to me. Perhaps indoors in some cold cabin..

The USAAF vests were originally issued as an extra layer to be worn under a B3; I've also read of them being worn over the top of an A2 for extra warmth without the same level of bulk. Of course those would require, respectively, the B3 or the vest to be sized up appropriately. I think another case of design purpose and often modern fashion wear being at odds with each other. I've seen a lot of people over the years sizing down a shearling jacket to fit over a T-shirt, or an A" up to go over a thick sweater.

As to the shearling vest, wearing it round the house in Winter rather than switching on / cranking up the heating all the time is exactly the purpose I'd consider one for. Not an issue in my current flat, but if we ever manage to move....

 

[Unrefined Vision]

I can advise you against such a waistcoat.
I have a similar one and find it impractical. If I ordered a new one, it would have a V-neck and no hem at the neck. It is uncomfortable (for me) at the neck.
A shearling waistcoat is too stiff and bulky to wear under another jacket or it doesn't look good. If it's cold enough for a shearling, it's too cold without sleeves.
If you're really planning on adding 19" shoulders to a waistcoat like this, you'll look like something out of an 80s Flash Gordon film
I actually take the same measurements for shearling jackets as I do for my leather jackets, except for the length. If you want it roomy, add half an inch.
View attachment 723915

Something out of a 1980's film HA shoulder pads you can see from outer space....now that's the look I'm going for! Great visual thanks for the laugh.

Sounds like a bit of a form over function deal. Looks very sharp in the photo you've provided, but if in practice when worn as a layer it's not comfortable or practical then I would certainly feel like I wasn't getting the experience I'd envisioned.

Thanks for sharing the insight.

 

[Unrefined Vision]

The USAAF vests were originally issued as an extra layer to be worn under a B3; I've also read of them being worn over the top of an A2 for extra warmth without the same level of bulk. Of course those would require, respectively, the B3 or the vest to be sized up appropriately. I think another case of design purpose and often modern fashion wear being at odds with each other. I've seen a lot of people over the years sizing down a shearling jacket to fit over a T-shirt, or an A" up to go over a thick sweater.

As to the shearling vest, wearing it round the house in Winter rather than switching on / cranking up the heating all the time is exactly the purpose I'd consider one for. Not an issue in my current flat, but if we ever manage to move....

I appreciate the brief background/history for these types of vests. Certainly in that era and military context something like this would purely be for function over fashion as everything is more or less today.

But if it doesn't work for the purposes I'm hoping then ultimately it won't get worn.

Something to consider.

-cheers