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The 25 Best Bomber Jackets for Men to Shop in 2023

From traditional military options to some more bomber-inspired pieces

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Funeral Apparel, Harley Davidson, L.L. Bean

Don't you just love when a certain fashion pieces have a storied history? Folks, bomber jackets are one of those pieces with a very colorful background. Originally known as "flight jackets," bombers were created during World War I in 1917 to help keep pilots warm while in the cockpit (which was uninsulated). In the decades since, the best bomber jackets for men have evolved immensely to become the kinds of jackets that you put on when you want to feel cool. The popularization of bombers jackets can be traced back to the 1950s and 60sand the style in film of the era (think Marlon Brando)—as they began to make appearances in entertainment culture, and in 2023 the case remains the same (Think Top Gun: Maverick). That's precisely why we're taking a look at the best bombers for men to shop in 2023.

Why exactly do we love bombers so much? Is the traditional military design? The fact that they are so versatile and can be worn pretty much any season—with a great pair of loafers or even some comfortable sneakers? Is it the fact that they can keep you warm in one of the most fashionable ways possible? Is it all of the above (it probably is all of the above). Whatever the reason may be, a bomber jacket is a sartorial staple that you can throw on for just about any occasion. From the classic Alpha Industries MA-1 Bomber Jacket ($200) to the Harley Davidson Bar & Shield Classic Motorcycle Jacket ($1,300), here are the best of the best.

RELATED: The 20 Best Cargo Pants For Men Who Need Some Extra Pockets

The History of the Bomber Jacket

The history of the bomber jacket spans back to the 1910s when they were known as "flight jackets." The jackets were created by the US Army Aviation Clothing Board to assist with keeping pilots warm in the very cool open-air cockpits of planes, which at the time wasn't nearly as advanced and insulated as what they are now. By the time the late 1920s/early 1930s rolled around, bomber jacket had become a simple lightweight style to wear casually, which remains the case to this day.

The Best Bomber Jackets for Men, at a Glance

1. Alpha Industries MA-1 Bomber Jacket

bomber
Alpha Industries

Editor's Pick

  • Material(s): Nylon
  • Size(s): XS-5XL
  • Color: Black, Sage, Replica Blue, Gunmetal, and 2 others

How could we start with anything other than Alpha Industries as our first choice? A recognized icon and innovator of the bomber jacket, bombers wouldn't be where they are today without Alpha, and specifically the MA-1. The cool thing about the MA-1 is that it's been kept as close as possible to the classic military specifications. That means you're pretty much getting a slightly modernized World War I equivalent jacket. Pretty cool huh?

SHOP NOW AT ALPHA INDUSTRIES, $200

2.Bonobos The Boulevard Jacket

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Bonobos

Sleekest Bomber

  • Material(s): 58% Linen, 40% Cotton, 2% Spandex
  • Size(s): XS, S, XXL
  • Color: Black, Maritime Blue, Green Gables

Bonobos has a variety of bomber jackets that you can choose from so you don't have to automatically go with this one. If you do, The Herringbone Boulevard Bomber is a sleek refined look for when you want to wear a bomber, but don't necessarily want a bulky look. Great for the spring and fall seasons and very comfortable with 58% Linen, 40% Cotton, 2% Spandex.

SHOP NOW AT BONOBOS, $199

3. H-D Bar & Shield Classic Moto

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Harley Davidson

Best Motorcycle Bomber

  • Material(s): Cow leather
  • Size(s): XS, S, M, L, XL
  • Color: Jet Black

Nobody does it better than Harley Davidson when it comes to motorcycle bombers. While their Bar & Shield Classic Moto requires an investment, this is a bomber worth it's weight as it's made with cow leather, has quilted lining, zip closure pockets, and a metal buckle waistband. Oh, and it's made with cow leather too, meaning the quality is excellent.

SHOP NOW AT HARLEY DAVIDSON, $1,300

4. Calvin Klein Full Zip Bomber Jacket

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Calvin Klein

Most Affordable Bomber

  • Material(s): 58% Linen, 40% Cotton, 2% Spandex
  • Size(s): XS, S, XXL
  • Colors: Black, Olive

A good jacket if you are always on the move, take advantage of Calvin Klein's Full Zip Bomber jacket which is currently being offered at nearly 70% off. With three different colors to choose from, this will work well with everything in your wardrobe, and we have to call out the linen/cotton/spandex blend for comfort as well.

SHOP NOW AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, $69.99

5. CUTS Legacy Bomber

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CUTS

Best Athleisure Bomber

  • Material(s): 100% Polyester
  • Size(s): S, M, L, XL
  • Color: Pacific Blue

No joke—CUTS has the most comfortable products we've ever worn, and their Legacy Bomber delivers on every front. It's selling out quickly, so make sure you get your hands on it. Made with 100% polyester, the fit is designed to suit you slim and comfortably as it is tailored to accentuate your body's structure.

BUY NOW AT CUTS, $275

6. Banana Republic Heritage Bomber

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Banana Republic

Best Leather Bomber

  • Material(s): Leather
  • Size(s): XS, S, M, L, XL
  • Color: Black, Green

While most leather bombers require you to spend a few hundred dollars, Banana Republic offers a solid one for less than $100, which we think is perfectly fair. The Heritage Bomber is a simple sleek look that comes with a ribbed knit bomber collar, long sleeves with ribbed knit cuffs, a zipper closure, angled front pockets, and a utility pocket on the left arm. Definitely a cool bomber for the upcoming fall season.

SHOP NOW AT BANANA REPUBLIC, $70 - $84

7. Overland Leather Bomber Moto Jacket

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Overland

Best Brown Leather Bomber

  • Material(s): Lambskin leather
  • Size(s): XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Color: Black, Brick 2, Dark Brown

If a bomber with a slight biker look if what you had in mind as far as selecting your jacket, then Overland has what you need. Their Lambskin Leather Bomber features waxed lambskin, a removable knit bib and collar, and the functional nature of the jacket makes this a versatile piece that you can wear during all seasons.

SHOP NOW AT OVERLAND, $495

8. L.L. Bean 3-Season Bomber Jacket

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L.L. Bean

Best Water-Repellent Bomber

  • Material(s): 100% Recycled polyester fleece.
  • Size(s): M-3XL
  • Color: Black, Light Mahogany, Nautical Navy, Thyme

Sometimes you get caught in the rain, and when you do, you kinda need a to be wearing a water-proof jacket or else you may find yourself in some trouble. You can avoid by both planning ahead, and getting L.L. Bean's 3-Season Waterproof Bomber which comes in four different colors (Black, Light Mahogany, Nautical Navy, and Thyme), and the ability to select either a tall or large size.

SHOP NOW AT L.L. BEAN, $89

9. H&M Bomber Jacket

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H&M

Best Lightweight Bomber

  • Material(s): 100% Polyester
  • Size(s): XS-3XL
  • Color: Black, Burgundy, Light Taupe, Khaki Green, Pink

A slim-fit lightweight bomber is something that can always be used in your closet, H&M offers one that is affordable and just what you need for warm and cool weather (notice we didn't say hot and cold) with its lightweight woven fabric, stand-up collar, zipper at front, and wide ribbing at cuffs and hem. There's also two side pockets with a concealed snap fastener and an inner pocket with snap fastener.

SHOP NOW AT H&M, $39.99

10. Dior Oblique Reversible Bomber

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Dior

Best Designer Bomber

  • Material(s): 100% polyamide
  • Size(s): 46-56
  • Color: Gray Technical Fabric

Now if you're trying to get a little fancy with it, Dior has this cool Oblique Reversible Jacket which comes in a tonal Dior Oblique jacquard, but can be flipped into a pink technical canvas. There's also two side welt pockets for you to store your smaller belongings.

SHOP NOW AT DIOR, $2,600

11. LESTRANGE Hydrowool Bomber

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LESTRANGE

Best Athletic Bomber

  • Material(s): Hydrowool
  • Size(s): S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Color: Black

LESTRANGE also offers a pretty nifty bomber jacket in their classic Hydrowool Bomber style, which is made from premium merino wool, and features a water and wind-proof fabric membrane for the ultimate comfort and breathability. Might want to jump the gun now before they are virtually unattainable.

SHOP NOW AT LESTRANGE, $389

12. HOMAGE x Starter Oilers Satin Jacket

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HOMAGE

Best Vintage Bomber

  • Material(s): Satin
  • Size(s): S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Color: Blue

Take us out to the ball game! If vintage is your jam, then you should definitely cop this HOMAGE x Starter Oilers Satin Jacket, which has a retro 80s/90s look and feel to it. This jacket features of all the features of the original including: full-snap buttons, slip pockets, elbow stripes and the essential interior patch.

SHOP NOW AT HOMAGE, $145

13. State & Liberty

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State and Liberty

Best Suede Bomber

  • Material(s): Suede
  • Size(s): S-3XL
  • Color: Navy

Suede lovers this one is for you! State & Liberty has a smooth stretch bomber jacket that is comfortable with the ability to dress up/down depending on your mood and where you are going. The Suede Bomber is crafted from a soft, high-quality stretch suede, making it extremely comfortable, and also has ribbed cuffs and liners, double-welt snap pockets, and is fully lined with performance stretch fabrics.

SHOP NOW AT STATE and LIBERTY, $250

14. Michael Strahan Modern Fit Bomber

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Men's Warehouse

Best Dressy Bomber

  • Material(s): Polyester
  • Size(s): S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Color: Black, Navy

Michael Strahan knows a thing or two about dressing nice. That's why you should totally purchase the Michael Strahan Modern Fit Bomber that was made by...Michael Strahan, and has a classic aviator style that also features ribbed-knit banding along the collar, cuffs, and hem. And did we mention the modern fit? Killer.

SHOP NOW AT MEN'S WAREHOUSE, $44.99

15. Levi's Filbert Flight Jacket

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Levi's

Most Accessible Bomber

  • Material(s): Polyester
  • Size(s): S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Color: Black, Thyme Green

Levi's Filbert Flight Jacket is stylish, functional, and water-repellent, which is one of the reasons why you should consider copping it. The jacket is also water-repellent and has a sleek design that balances utilitarian style, whilst still remaining very much true to itself as far as what it offers comfort wise along with durability.

SHOP NOW AT LEVI'S, $148

16. AllSaints Bassett Bomber Jacket

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AllSaints

Smoothest Bomber Jacket

  • Material(s): 65% Organic cotton, 35% polyamide
  • Size(s): XS, S, M, XXL
  • Color: Black, Command Blue, Dull Khaki, Dusty Taupe

The bomber jackets from AllSaints are sophisticated enough to be worn for dressier occasions, and casual enough to be sported for errands and airport runs. The Bassett Bomber, in particular, is made with organic cotton and polyamide, and has ribbed trims, zip pockets and the brand's signature embroidery on the chest. Nice!

SHOP NOW AT ALLSAINTS, $249

16. HUGO Boss Regular-fit Bomber

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HUGO BOSS

Best All-Black Bomber

  • Material(s): 50% Polyamide, 50% polyamid
  • Size(s): 38R - 44R
  • Color: Black

A BOSS jacket for the real bosses in charge. Ya digg? The Slim-Fit Zip-Up Jacket is composed of soft satin, and cut to have a streamlined fit along with being trimmed with a signature-stripe accent at the interior. There's also stretch ribbing in place for extra measure. Flexible, versatile, durable, and stylish. Gotta love it.

SHOP NOW AT HUGO BOSS, $372

17. Alpha Industries x Alt MA-1 Bomber Jacket

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New Era

Best Sports Bomber

  • Material(s): Nylon
  • Size(s): M,L
  • Color: Navy Blue

Of course Alpha Industries is the mastermind behind this beautiful Atlanta Braves-themed bomber. Of course. This jacket is boosted with embroidered Braves patches throughout the chest and right-wear sleeve, and a embroidered applique team wordmark and logo on the back of the jacket. There's also a utility pocket, and you can also reverse the jacket for a completely new look, which is always a cool feature with jackets.

SHOP NOW AT ALPHA INDUSTRIES, $219.99

18. Brooklyn Goat Woven Bomber Jacket

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Brooklyn Cloth

Best Varsity Bomber

  • Material(s): Nylon
  • Size(s): S, M, L, XL
  • Color: Sand

Ain't nothin like a little varsity bomber to rep your sporty athletic spirit. Very stylish and easy to be paired/layered with other items in your closet along with having all the technical features expected with bombers such as a full snap front, side pockets, and a rib-knit tipped trip to round it all out.

SHOP NOW AT BROOKLYN CLOTH, $46

19. Lululemon Switch Over Bomber Jacket

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Lululemon

Best Workout Bomber

  • Material(s): Cotton Blend
  • Size(s): XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Color: Black, Grey Sage, Artifact

Yes workout bombers are a thing, which shouldn't be a surprise with the rise of athleisure. Lululemon does it best in that regard, and their Lululemon Switch Over Bomber Jacket is one to add to your wishlist with its water-resistant cotton-blend fabric and classic hip fit. The jacket is also reversible, and has lightweight insulation to help keep you warm during those chilly days.

BUY NOW AT LULULEMON, $198

20. Ralph Lauren Double-Knit Bomber

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Ralph Lauren

Most Versatile Bomber

  • Material(s): Cotton
  • Size(s): XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Color: Polo Black, Light Sport Heather

A classic vintage jacket by a vintage classic brand? Say no more! This Double-Knit Bomber Jacket from Ralph Lauren features a sleek cotton-blend fabric, a ribbed baseball collar with a full-zip front, two waist-front snapped pockets with a ribbed hem, long sleeves with ribbed cuffs, and of course, the signature Ralph Lauren Pony on the left chest for the razzle dazzle.

BUY NOW AT RALPH LAUREN, $148

21. boohooMAN Boxy Fit Graffiti Jacket

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boohooMAN

Best Designed Bomber Jacket

  • Material(s): 100% Polyester
  • Size(s): M, L, XL, 2XL

Lightweight, durable, and versatile, boohooMAN's Boxy Fit Graffiti Jacket will have you looking fun, fly, and fresh. Made with polyester, this jacket is designed to both combat cold temperatures while still being lightweight enough to rock during the spring and summer. In addition to its versatility, the jacket is also super comfortable, which is a nice addition to the already nice design.

SHOP NOW AT BOOHOOMAN, $60

22. Quince Suede Bomber Jacket

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Quince

Warmest Bomber Jacket

  • Material(s): 100% Goat Suede Leather
  • Size(s): S - XL

A minimalist jacket designed to keep you warm during all seasons, Quince's Suede Bomber Jacket is specifically crafted with 100% goat suede leather, making this a good transitional piece from fall to winter, and from winter to spring. The jacket also has a inner liner for extra comfort, a soft stretch cotton rib collar, cuff, and bottom hem, two side zip pockets, and two interior pockets.

SHOP NOW AT QUINCE, $149.90

23. Eddie Bauer Men's Superior Down Bomber Jacket

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Eddie Bauer

Best Winter Bomber

  • Material(s): 100% Nylon
  • Size(s): S-3XL
  • Color: Antique Bronze, Black, Dark Olive, Light Khaki, Storm

Eddie Bauer has a solid reputation in the winter coat game, so if you're looking specifically for winter bombers, they're your guy. This jacket is a highly technical one as it has WeatherEdge® seam-sealed technology, 650-fill premium down insulation, StormRepel® Super DWR for moisture-shedding, eight pockets, an adjustable hood, and plenty more cool features that will keep you comfy and protected this winter.

SHOP NOW AT EDDIE BAUER, $299

24. Paul Smith Men's Dark Navy Bomber

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Paul Smith

Best Minimalist Bomber

  • Material(s): Wool
  • Size(s): S, XL
  • Color: Dark Navy, Sand

If you are into subtle minimalist fashion, Paul Smith has a simple jacket that is very technical as it's made using a technical wool cloth from Loro Piana and treated with a Green Storm System, making it both waterproof and wind-resistant.

SHOP NOW AT PAUL SMITH, $1195

25. Versace Men's Baroque Bomber Jacket

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Neiman Marcus

Best Couture Bomber

  • Material(s): 100% Nylon
  • Size(s): 36R - 58R

Perfect for either a fancy dinner/date night or the runway. The choice is yours with Versace's Baroque Lurex Jacket which is made with a baroque jacquard pattern, and has a baseball collar, zip closure, and eloquently-designed long-sleeves. You know the usual when it comes to bomber jackets.

SHOP NOW AT NEIMAN MARCUS, $2,675

What's the difference between a bomber jacket and a varsity jacket?

The biggest difference between bomber jackets and varsity jackets are the coloring and design. Varsity jackets tend to have a more preppy/collegiate/sporty look to them (hence the name varsity), whereas bomber jackets tend to feature darker solid colors and have more of a military look.

How to style a bomber jacket:

For bomber jacket styling, you can keep it simple with your top choice since the jacket is the main appeal. Most opt for an undershirt/t-shirt, or perhaps a long-sleeve/turtleneck when the weather is cooler. As for the bottoms, bombers can go with pretty much anything casual/sport from jeans to joggers. For the shoes, you can keep it athletic as well with sneakers, boots, etc. Here are some examples.

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