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15 Best Bomber Jackets for Men for 2025, According to Esquire Editors

time:2024-12-23 05:24:22 Source:

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black bomber jacket worn over a lightcolored shirt
lululemon

15 Best Bomber Jackets for Men for 2025, According to Esquire Editors

Outerwear doesn’t get any more cinematic than this.

By Trishna Rikhy and Nykia Spradley

There’s a cool factor that is instantly recognizable when wearing a great bomber jacket. It’s a closet staple, a tried-and-true piece that never falters. Similarly to a leather jacket, there’s a confidence that bombers give off that you just can’t deny. You know that, we know that—it’s a fact.

What you might not know is that a lot has gone into getting bombers to the suave status that they hold today. In the early 1950s, the U.S. military enlisted Dobbs Industries (the predecessor of Alpha Industries) to make nylon jackets that were lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, allowing pilots in bomber planes to move freely while protecting them from the elements.


Our Top Picks:

  • Most Iconic Bomber Jacket: Alpha Industries MA-1 Bomber Jacket, $200
  • Best Reversible Bomber Jacket: AllSaints Bassett Reversible Bomber Jacket, $279
  • Warmest Bomber Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch YPB Quilted Bomber Jacket, $120
  • Best Weather-Resistant Bomber Jacket: Buck Mason Flight Nylon LZ Bomber, $298
  • Best Inexpensive Bomber Jacket: Gap Relaxed Bomber Jacket, $39

The thus-dubbed bombers were functional and practical and quickly became a cultural icon in the years to follow. Naturally, Hollywood helped catapult them to fame: Marlon Brando in A Streetcar Named Desire, Steve McQueen in The Hunter, Ryan Gosling in Drive, and Daniel Craig in nearly all his Bond flicks are just a few notables of the style.

Alpha Industries began producing bombers for the masses. The style was adopted by blue-collar workers and British skinheads in the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. A decade later, the fashion industry caught wind and the jacket became a staple on runways and in the closets of stylish men. Movie history and fashion history show that bomber jackets are here to stay, so you might go ahead and invest in a little snippet of that history with one of our top picks below.

Most Reliable Bomber Jacket

Everlane Uniform Bomber Jacket

Uniform Bomber Jacket $148 at Everlane
Pros
  • ProTwo-way zipper for easy opening and closing
  • ProComes in five colors
Cons
  • ConShrinks in the dryer
  • ConNot as warm as other options

Everlane is so confident in its Uniform collection that the retailer backs any product from the line with a 365-day guarantee. If your bomber suddenly goes kaput, the company will replace it with a new one. Plus, it's crafted from recycled, water-resistant polyester—better for the environment, better for your wardrobe. And with five color options, you can make this your outerwear uniform for the season.

One reviewer writes: "The fit is great, not too long in the sleeves and not too narrow in the shoulders, and it's right at the waistline. It goes with so many different arrangements and colors can easily be dressed up or dressed down depending on the event or occasion, or just hanging out. The magnetic pocket closures are great, they're discreet and effective. A really easy-wearing piece!"

Colors6
SizesXS-2XL
Materials68% Cotton, 32% Recycled Polyester
FasteningZipper
Most Iconic Bomber Jacket

Alpha Industries MA-1 Bomber Jacket

MA-1 Bomber Jacket $200 at alphaindustries.com
Pros
  • ProReversible
  • ProLots of pockets for storage
Cons
  • ConSlim fit not ideal for layering

The MA-1 is still setting the standard after all these years. This is one of the most iconic bomber jackets out there, and with good reason. It has a durable, reversible, water-resistant shell, a poly-fill for added warmth, plenty of pockets, and knit details, too. This one has a slimmer fit so don't plan to layer it over your bulkier sweaters.

One reviewer writes: "Fits like a glove and looks great. Well-made. Not bulky, but quite comfortable down to about 40 degrees. My favorite jacket. So glad I made this purchase."

ColorsBlack, Sage, Replica Blue, Woodland Camo
SizesXS-5XL
Materials100% Flight Nylon
FasteningZipper
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Best Ripstop Bomber Jacket

Calvin Klein Water and Wind Resistant Rip Stop Bomber Jacket

On SaleWater and Wind Resistant Rip Stop Bomber Jacket Now 10% Off$80$72 at Amazon$195$72 at Macy's
Pros
  • ProStand collar for added warmth
  • ProInexpensive
Cons
  • ConRuns large
  • ConNot ideal for cold weather

Lightweight and water-resistant, consider your grab-and-go jacket for milder temps found with this classic option from Calvin Klein. It's simple enough to go with anything, whether you decide to dress it up or dress it down. Plus, the soft shell design isn't too bulky; you can easily pack it for travel. It zips to the chin too, for days when you need some extra protection from the cold.

One reviewer writes: "Exactly what I was looking for. Sharp and professional looking, great in wind or rain, and doesn’t wrinkle when stuffed into my travel backpack."

ColorsNavy, Olive, Jet Black, Iron, Dark Tan
SizesS-2XL
Materials100% Polyester
FasteningZipper
best weather-resistant bomber jacket

Buck Mason Flight Nylon LZ Bomber

Flight Nylon LZ Bomber$298 at Buck Mason
Pros
  • ProLined and lightly insulated
  • ProLightweight
Cons
  • ConOnly comes in one color

From Buck Mason comes a versatile, everyday bomber that's jam-packed with performance qualities. Whether you're dressing this up for the office or dressing it down for a chill weekend, you'll love the non-bulky, weather-resistant fabric, angled hip pockets, and ribbed trims.

Colorsdried clover
Sizesxs-2xl
Materialsshell: nylon satinlining: rayonfill: primaloft
Fasteningszipper
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Best Water-Repellent Bomber Jacket

Bonobos The Boulevard Bomber

The Boulevard Bomber$189 at Bonobos

Bonobos is always there to provide a classic bomber when you're in need of one. Feel free to wear it out in a little drizzle, since it's also water-repellent. Plus, the fully-lined interior and snap-button pockets are just right for your winter layering.

One reviewer writes: "I love this jacket. It fits perfectly and I'm already getting compliments on it."

Colorsblack, maritime blue, green gables
Sizesxs-2xl
Materials60% cotton, 40% nylon
Fasteningzipper
best chic bomber jacket

Polo Ralph Lauren Double-Knit Bomber Jacket

Double-Knit Bomber Jacket$148 at Ralph Lauren
Pros
  • ProHas a slight stretch
  • ProAvailable in regular and big and tall sizes
Cons
  • ConFabric feels more like a sweater than a jacket

PRL has a bomber jacket as classically stylish as the rest of their clothing. This one has plenty of pockets, a sleek silhouette, and, best of all, double-knit fabric for extra warmth. The fit is on the slimmer side so consider ordering a size up if you plan to layer pieces underneath.

One reviewer writes: "Beautiful and comfortable, You can wear it with any type of pants! A casual jacket, soft and high-quality fabric!"

ColorsPolo Black, Aviator Navy, Light Sport Heather
SizesXS-2XL
Materials67% Cotton, 33% Polyester
FasteningZipper
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best performance bomber jacket

Lululemon Switch Over Bomber Jacket

Switch Over Bomber Jacket$198 at Lululemon
Pros
  • ProHidden phone sleeve
  • ProWater repellent on both the inside and outside
Cons
  • ConCustomers say the fit is odd or too boxy

Lululemon makes apparel that's technically for athletics, but this casual bomber is such a good lifestyle look, we won't tell them if you decide to wear it every day. The fabric is water-resistant and wind-resistant, plus it has PrimaLoft insulation that you won't even so much as shiver in, even if your jacket is wet. And because Lululemon thinks of everything, there's even a hidden phone sleeve in the front pockets.

One reviewer writes: "Stylish jacket that fits well. Easy to dress up for a casual dinner. Love how it feels and looks."

Colorsblack
Sizesxs-2xl
Materials49% cotton, 36% polyester, 15% nylon
Fasteningzipper
Best Logo Bomber Jacket

Gucci GG Printed Suede Bomber Jacket

GG Printed Suede Bomber Jacket$4,600 at Gucci
Pros
  • ProLined for added warmth
  • ProRibbed knit trim
Cons
  • ConPricey

Here's a logo-laden bomber jacket with all the cachet that's well worth the coin. Inspired by bombers of the '70s, this monogrammed suede style is all about easy-going, laidback coolness.

Colorsblue
SizesIT 44-IT 60
Materialscalfskin + 88% wool, 10% polyamide, 2% elastane
Fasteningzipper
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Best Reversible Bomber Jacket

AllSaints Bassett Reversible Bomber Jacket

Bassett Reversible Bomber Jacket$279 at Nordstrom$135 at Amazon
Pros
  • ProTwo-jackets in one
  • ProMachine washable
Cons
  • ConNot padded
  • ConComplaints about the zipper sticking easily

A reversible jacket like this one is basically like having two separate pieces in one. Style the black side of the cotton and nylon bomber with khakis or go monochromatic with black pants. Reverse it to the Khaki Brown side to wear with jeans or corduroy pants.

One reviewer writes:"Great spring jacket, very nice color green with black and the material and workmanship is top notch. I am 6ft and 165lbs and the size large fits me nicely. The size does run a bit small. The material has a nice feel and the knit collar and cuffs are high quality and well done."

Colorsblack/ ash khaki brown
Sizess-2xl
Materials75% cotton, 25% nylon
Fasteningzipper
Best Inexpensive Bomber Jacket

Gap Relaxed Bomber Jacket

Relaxed Bomber Jacket$39 at GAP
Pros
  • ProRelaxed fit is best for layering
  • ProMaterial is soft and easy to move in
Cons
  • ConMaterial is too shiny for some

Gap's bomber is a steal price-wise, but there's nothing cheap looking or feeling about it. The full polyester jacket is cut to fit on the more relaxed, baggier side, but if you prefer a more classic fit, size down. There aren't a ton of pockets like some others on this list, but the button-flap front pockets are deep enough to hold your essentials.

One reviewer writes:"Great quality materials used to make this Jacket. Unlike other military flight jackets which are normally stiff due to low quality materials used. But this jacket is soft and it moods to your body and feels great, and the fact that it was on sale I had to buy it."

Colorstrue black, khaki green
Sizesxs-3xl
Materials100% polyester
Fasteningzipper
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Best Dressy Bomber

Mack Weldon Latitude Bomber

Latitude Bomber$198 at Mack Weldon
Pros
  • ProCan be easily dressed up
  • ProFleece-lined
Cons
  • ConHard to clean

When the fit calls for a dressier jacket that will also keep you warm, go with this Mack Weldon version. The polyester shell is water- and wind-resistant, fleece-lined, and trimmed with ribbed cuffs, waistline, and collar. There's also a hidden chest pocket to keep the two slant side pockets clear for your hands.

One reviewer writes:"Attention to detail, materials, and style exceeded my expectations. Gave it a brutal test in the wind and rain and it did its job. Fit is true to my size large giving me room to layer."

Colorsfoxhole heather, true navy heather
Sizess-2xl
Materials100% Polyester
Fasteningzipper
Softest Bomber Jacket

Todd Snyder Italian Cashmere Bomber in Taupe

Italian Cashmere Bomber in Taupe$1,998 at Todd Snyder
Pros
  • ProTwo-way zipper
  • ProCashmere is naturally warm
Cons
  • ConOnly the sleeves are lined

We've honestly seen very few bombers classier than this cashmere version from Todd Snyder. With its soft, recycled cashmere, contrasting rib knit cuffs, hem, and collar, and not-too-baggy, not-too-fitted silhouette, this is one worthy investment in your wardrobe. It will just as easily work with your best jeans as it does a pair of dress pants.

Colorstaupe
Sizesxs-2xl
Materials100% recycled cashmere
Fasteningzipper
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Best Quilted Bomber

Abercrombie & Fitch YPB Quilted Bomber Jacket

YPB Quilted Bomber Jacket$110 at Abercrombie
Pros
  • ProHas plenty of room for layering
  • ProWarm but not too hot
Cons
  • ConToo puffy for some

A&F went for full-on cozy vibes with their quilted bomber. The rounded hem adds to its softness. The nylon shell is water and wind-resistant and inside is a recycled polyester filling that makes it puffy and warm. Compared to similar jackets, the ribbed knit collar on this one stands a bit taller in the back to keep breezes off your neck.

Colorsblack, dark olive
Sizesxs-2xl
Materialsshell:100% nylonfilling:100% recycled polyester fibers lining:100% polyester
Fasteningzipper
Best Varsity-Style Bomber

Golden Bear The Portola Leather-Trimmed Wool-Blend Varsity Jacket

The Portola Leather-Trimmed Wool-Blend Varsity Jacket$560 at MR PORTER
Pros
  • ProQuilting lining is warm but not bulky
Cons
  • ConWhite fabric shows dirt easily

There's a lot of design crossover between a classic bomber and a varsity jacket. Here's the perfect hybrid. The silhouette and rib-knit trimmings say bomber while the two-toned colorway, striped accents, and snap closure add the letterman jacket touch. It's made with a wool blend shell and has a quilted lining, so you know it'll keep you nice and toasty.

Colorsoff-white, green
Sizesxs-2xl
Materialsshell: 80% wool, 20% polyamidelining: 100% polyester
Fasteningsnaps
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Best Hooded Bomber Jacket

Dickies Hooded Bomber Jacket

Hooded Bomber Jacket$140 at Dickies
Pros
  • ProFully lined throughout
  • ProMaterial is soft and flexible
Cons
  • ConMore casual than other options

In keeping with its functional workwear roots, Dickies tacked a hood on this bomber jacket. The brushed cotton duck material is durable but still super soft and easy to move in. There's also a fleece lining to keep you warm. The drawstring hood even has a jersey knit lining that'll keep your head and ears toasty when the chill creeps in. Tuck your essentials into one of two interior pockets and save the outside ones for your hands.

Colorsstonewashed brown duck, stonewashed black
Sizesxs-2xl
Materials100% cotton brushed duckbody lining: 100% polyester fleecehood lining: 100% cotton jersey
Fasteningszipper

How We Selected the Best Bomber Jackets

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We wouldn't recommend something to you that we wouldn't wear ourselves. There's a wide, wide world of bomber jackets out there, and our Esquire editors are only choosing the very best ones.

To narrow it down to the 22 favorites we have on the list above, we went with jackets we've tried, tested, and loved throughout the years. Some of these styles are the infallible picks that have been hanging in the closets of our fashion and commerce editors for years. Some of them are newer styles that we got our hands on, took for a spin in the New York City winter, and fell in love with.

Aside from testing things ourselves, we make sure that these styles are widely loved by thousands of online reviewers, too. Only once they pass all those checks are they ready for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What should I look for in a bomber jacket?

Bomber jackets are pretty straightforward, so you aren't going to dig very deep to find one that has everything you're looking for.

Silhouette and fitis something to factor in, as you can go the classic, oversized route, à la Alpha Industries, or keep things pretty slim, tailored, and modern, like Calvin Klein.

Make sure to consider the warmth, too. If you're using your bomber as an in-between layer sandwiched between a heavier coat and a tee, you don't have to worry about packing in as much heat as, say, something like Canada Goose's option would provide. A super-warm option will be less versatile in spring and summer, but to each their own.

The materialis definitely something to consider. Some brands are all about performance specs that'll keep you dry in the rain, while others—like Loro Piana and Celine Homme—are definitely prioritizing luxury and style with their sleek, high-end fabrics. It's a different look, and it's for different guys—no two preferences are the same.

Lastly, if you have a preference when it comes to fastening, make sure you check how your bomber closes—zippers are most common, but some brands keep things old-school with a good ol' snap button.

How should I style a bomber jacket?

Luckily, bombers are pretty easy to style. They speak for themselves, as the silhouette of a bomber is inherently cool.

If you want to dress your bomber jacket up, you can opt for a turtleneck or button-down underneath. Pair with dress pants and loafers for a sleek, sharp look.

To keep things lowkey and easy, though, pretty much any tee is a bomber's BFF. Jeans are never a bad option, and a black loafer with white socks isn't too shabby, either. But if you want to wear sneakers instead, feel free—the bomber can accommodate it all.

Shop More Essentials

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  • Once the cold really kicks in, you're going to need a heavy-duty winter parka. Our favorite ones are right here.
  • You may also want to add a chore coat to your wardrobe that's tough, durable, and doesn't miss on style.
  • If you're unsure which kind of coat you need to add to your rotation, check out our guide to the best types of coats and jackets for men.
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Why You Can Trust Esquire

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When it comes to bomber jackets, you can rest assured that we’re hand-selecting styles that we’ve personally tested, tried, and loved, along with styles that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse. We’ve had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these bomber jackets are the ones that are simply the best.

Every pick on this list (and our other lists!) comes from years of wearing different things, seeing what we love and what we don’t, and going from there. No two tastes are the same, and no two men are the same. Your proverbial mileage may vary. But if you’re looking for the right place to start, with advice from folks who and care (possibly too much!) about this sort of stuff, this is the place to be.

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