The MA-1 and M-65 jackets typically get the most attention when discussing military clothing. However, the renowned N1 deck jacket is a must-see if you're seeking for a tough, warm, and adaptable winter design with an equally outstanding military pedigree.
N1 Deck Jacket History
The jacket was initially released in the United States. As the N1DC, it entered the Navy in 1943 and instantly won over sailors. The simplicity of the design was brilliant. The user was shielded from strong winds and ocean spray by a thick, tightly woven whipcord or "Bedford" cord outer shell (which later became known as "jungle cloth").
A thick pile of Alpaca wool served as the jacket's lining for insulation. Snug inset knit cuffs, a drawstring at the hem, and a zipper front closure with a large, button-through storm placket were the only embellishments. For added security, the wearer could fasten the turned-up, rounded Alpaca collar using a throat clasp.
N1 Deck Jacket Design
The initial shade of the design was a rich navy blue, which was fitting given its nautical roots. However, that was only worn for a brief period before being rapidly replaced by a light olive khaki in 1945. The N1 was superseded by the A2 Deck Jacket in the 1960s, but aside from those color variations, it was essentially unchanged from the end of World War II through the Korean War.
N1 Deck Jacket in Pop Culture
The servicemen who wore the rugged and useful N1 wore their jackets after they left the military because they were so fond of them. It was kept on hand as a work jacket and as a casual piece of outerwear, as we can see with Paul Newman (who served in the Navy from 1943 to 1946) and James Dean above. It also gained enormous popularity in the newly rising motorcycle culture that was becoming more and more well-known in the western United States.
Ironically, the N1 doesn't appear in many World War II movies because it was developed very late in the conflict. Despite the fact that it was rarely seen in movie wardrobes, its popularity in daily life remained quite steady. The N1 jacket is now regarded as a "staple" in the culture of workwear, and genuine vintage examples in good condition can easily cost over $500.
Features of an N1 Deck Jacket
- Cotton or cotton blend shell in navy, khaki or tan
- Fleece collar
- Wool or Alpaca pile lining (although most jackets today use a synthetic fleece or combination of fleece and and other synthetic insulation)
- Zip front closure with wide, button-through storm placket
- Welted handwarmer pockets
- Bomber jacket length
- Drawstring at waist