I am looking at a vintage Cooper A-2 and trying to decide what size I need. It is the goat hide without side pockets and the hook at the neck with a one piece back. I am 5’ 10” and weigh around 185 and around 36” waist. I want it a smidgen oversized. I can’t decide if I need a 46r or a 48r?? Any help with this would be greatly appreciated, Randy
Most of the Coopers were cut wide and short, length won't be an issue for you. The best way to work out sizing is for you to establish what your key measurements are - your pit to pit (chest measured across under the armpits with the jacket lying flat. Your sleeve length and your back length. If you measure a similar jacket that fits well (denim jacket, etc) you are 80% there to getting a good fit forever in any jacket you buy. Remember labelled sizes are random - I fit a 38, 40, 42, 44 and 46 depending on the pattern and the cut. Even within the same brand. You have to go by measurements. Cooper shoulders can be cut quite wide (ususally 21 inches from size 42 on) and make the jacket look baggy. 19 inches would be much more period accurate and fit neater. I am six two and 185 ponds and 42 long in Cooper fit me. I would be surprised if you need a larger than a 44 in Coopers which usually have a 25 inch pit to pit. Work out your pit to pit!
Thank you. Do you know the difference between the orange label Cooper’s and the black ones that say Neal Cooper. It looks pretty much the same but I think the Neal Cooper might have side pockets?.
I have a size 44 & a size 42 orange label Cooper,,great jackets . I’m very similar stats with you & the 44fits great .
Post-war Cooper Air Force re-issue jackets from the late eighties are pretty much true to size. I have an issued jacket in a 40 and fits at it is supposed to in the shoulder, waist, and back. Sleeves are perfect too. I'm 5'-9", 160 Lbs. I also had a 42 for a short time but it was too big and looked like a potato sack on me. I sold it and continued wearing my 40 to this day. It's 30 years old. Those jackets have the orange label.
