There’s a lot to love about vintage Vietnam jackets like the M65 field shirt and field jacket. They are comfortable, roomy, have plenty of space for storage, and when layered, can be surprisingly warm and protective, especially considering the conditions in which they were intended to be worn.
That being the case, if you don’t have one in your closet, there are a few reasons that you should get one.
Quality
Things just seem like they were made to a higher level of quality back in the day. That in part holds true for mil-spec field wear like original M65 field jackets.
Even if you don’t get an original, if you get one patterned on the basic specifications used for the design, and one that’s made from high-quality materials, you’ll still be making out alright.
Despite drooping quality standards, today many vintage Vietnam jackets are made with highly durable ripstop cotton fabric that not only resists abrasion but which resists tearing and fraying, too.
Affordability
Another great thing about vintage Vietnam jackets, whether or not you get an original, is that they like surplus and other military gear tend to be fairly affordable.
What’s made for official use is made to exacting standards and one of them is a low cost of production. Sometimes the ticket gets handed to the lowest bidder; when that happens, if you are the buyer, the cost savings get passed to you.
Either way, there are expensive jackets and coats out there, but as a general rule, military surplus options aren’t in that camp.
Storage Space
Many vintage field shirts are loaded with pockets so you have room for your essentials. That might vary from what a soldier carried, but storage space is vital nonetheless
Many vintage Vietnam-inspired jackets and coats have numerous pockets, offering plent yof room so you can store all your personal effects.
They’re Often Imitated but Never Duplicated
It’s hard to capture an authentic aesthetic, especially if what you’re trying to capture was done so well to begin with.
Many reproducers and some other companies, like Rothco, stake their claim on being able to reproduce what made old military gear valuable and practical. In some ways they can capture it, and sometimes they can’t.
Either way, it’s hard to beat the functionality of a vintage Vietnam jacket or an M65 field shirt. If you want quality at a low price, and an aesthetic that doesn’t boast, then you need one of these.
Where to Get a Vintage Vietnam Jacket
In the market for a vintage Vietnam jacket? Check out what’s in stock over at Fatigues Army Navy first. They carry a wide range of practical field jackets, shirts and other gear, at very competitive prices.
Plus they carry a whole lot of other surplus gear and militaria that’s perfect for collections, camping, hiking, and other outdoor sports. Visit their website and get in touch with them if you have any questions about what they sell before you buy.
