Some big US Wings Indy jacket news

Dragonlady Jones · Post by **Dragonlady Jones** » Sat Mar 20, 2010 4:38 pm

crismans wrote:Okay, I'm back from #### Town (or Disney World as it's more traditionally known) so let me clarify a bit here...

Many thanks for the explanation and information, although it only serves to get me more excited...

theman · Post by **theman** » Sun Mar 21, 2010 11:17 am

Hey Crismans - How did your hands fit into the ToD pockets on the prototype, were they still usable in actual handwarmer fashion?

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Sun Mar 21, 2010 1:34 pm

theman wrote:Hey Crismans - How did your hands fit into the ToD pockets on the prototype, were they still usable in actual handwarmer fashion?

They were a little tighter than I was used to (Raiders and especially an LC can spoil you) but they were usable as actual handwarmers. Which is good as, while I know a lot of us don't actually use the handwarmers, I'm in the camp that does.

JC1972 · Post by **JC1972** » Tue Mar 23, 2010 11:11 pm

I take it no longs for either the striated or antique lamb?

Hollowpond · Post by **Hollowpond** » Wed Mar 24, 2010 6:16 am

I really plan on scooping one of these up, but just a quick question. I have a todd's standard. Can someone compare the cut and fit of a Todd's to a US wings? I don't mean if the sizes jive. It just seems like the Wings is a little longer and fuller cut, both of which I like. Is this the case? Again, this is as compared to the Todd's standard.

Travis

theman · Post by **theman** » Wed Mar 24, 2010 8:55 am

I doubt anyone can give a comparison on the wings ToD, but as for their standard raiders jacket I found the Todd's a much better true raiders fit with correct sleeve to torso ratios and slimmer sleeves/body. The wings needed to be one size smaller w/ L sleeves only, sadly not an option.

BwanaJohn · Post by **BwanaJohn** » Mon Mar 29, 2010 7:01 pm

Just starting to work on my Indy Archives, but that ToD, for that price , may be worth the wait. If it's close to how the photo looks, that Distressed/Finish- look has sold me!

knibs7 · Post by **knibs7** » Mon Mar 29, 2010 11:51 pm

Any chance they will change the pockets to be SA?

Kyle

Zach R. · Post by **Zach R.** » Tue Mar 30, 2010 12:00 am

I had one of the US Wings in Antique lamb...the look was good but I didn't quite like how heavy it was compared to other lambskins (of my Wested or other lambskin jackets I have handled). But, I can't wait to see how this project turns out.

Hollowpond · Post by **Hollowpond** » Tue Mar 30, 2010 6:25 am

I gotta admit, the more research I do the more I may be on the fence on this one. It seems these jackets run extraordinarily long. Is that the case?

I've heard and read in excess of 27"

Is that correct? Starting to lean away from this one. Somebody convince me otherwise...

Travis

JC1972 · Post by **JC1972** » Tue Mar 30, 2010 10:15 am

Hollowpond wrote:I gotta admit, the more research I do the more I may be on the fence on this one. It seems these jackets run extraordinarily long. Is that the case? I've heard and read in excess of 27" Is that correct? Starting to lean away from this one. Somebody convince me otherwise...

Travis

If that's the case (27"), that would be perfect for me. I won't have to worry about getting a long.

BwanaJohn · Post by **BwanaJohn** » Tue Mar 30, 2010 6:13 pm

Received an Email today stating when they have a Production Date for these, they will let us know. Hopefully, it'll be before weather here hits The 90's....

jamesdell · Post by **jamesdell** » Tue Mar 30, 2010 6:25 pm

Hollowpond wrote:I gotta admit, the more research I do the more I may be on the fence on this one. It seems these jackets run extraordinarily long. Is that the case? I've heard and read in excess of 27" Is that correct? Starting to lean away from this one. Somebody convince me otherwise...

Travis

I've been in touch with them about their sizing. I've received and excel chart that shows the back length of 27 1/4" in XS, S, M, L, XL. It's 28 1/4" in the 2XL and 3XL sizes (all + or - 1/2" tolerance).

Now this is for the current styles only, I can't vouch for how the TOD will differ, but I agree with you. At 5'6" I'm not winning any height contests, and these jacket would be huge on me.

James

Texan Scott · Post by **Texan Scott** » Tue Mar 30, 2010 8:40 pm

It would be cool if they could use the vintage, Indiana Jones airplane logo for the label, IF it was possible?

theman · Post by **theman** » Mon Apr 05, 2010 12:38 am

Hey crismans - can you give us anything more solid on how the sizing on these will be? From the looks of the proto there is no way it has an incorrect 27+ inch back length.
If IRCC one of the ToD screen used has a back length of almost 26" but the sleeves were over 25" anyway, so as long as proportions are kept in that range starting at around a 42R the jacket shouldn't be too off on most sizes.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Mon Apr 05, 2010 1:01 am

To be honest, I'm not sure of the sizing myself. I know that the jacket cut is more tapered (I'm referring to the ToD jacket here) than normal Wings offerings but I'm assuming that the lengths of these will be comparable to other Wings Indy jackets.

The Temple jacket appeared longer anyway so this shouldn't be much of a problem (and Wings' longer jackets actually make sense if you consider that Cooper was responsible for the original Temple jackets). Not saying that's why. Just seems a nice bit of synchronicity.

Texan Scott · Post by **Texan Scott** » Tue Apr 06, 2010 7:06 pm

So the USW-ToD jacket will be introduced with certain specs. tweaked with yours and Holt's input. The other USW Indy jackets will for the most part be the same?

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Tue Apr 06, 2010 10:32 pm

Texan Scott wrote:So the USW-ToD jacket will be introduced with certain specs. tweaked with yours and Holt's input. The other USW Indy jackets will for the most part be the same?

I don't want to say for sure as I don't know for sure, but this is my understanding.

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Tue Apr 06, 2010 10:43 pm

Texan Scott wrote:It would be cool if they could use the vintage, Indiana Jones airplane logo for the label, IF it was possible?

I agree that label is very cool!

Post by **Michaelson** » Wed Apr 07, 2010 1:53 pm

Agreed, but the thing is, they don't OWN the design to that label, so more than likely that won't occur.

Regards! Michaelson

theman · Post by **theman** » Thu Apr 08, 2010 2:19 am

Well they could just use a label with an airplane on it that is very "similar" to that other label.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Thu Apr 08, 2010 7:36 pm

As the post title suggests, I talked with Sgt. Hack today and it's a little of Good Times, Bad Times.

We'll start with the Bad Times first so we can end on a high note.

It doesn't look like the Temple of Doom jacket is going to be a reality after all. Sgt. Hack said that he had sent the prototype around to various people who make these decisions and the consensus was that the design (while durable enough for a movie) just couldn't meet Wings specs for durability for everyday wear. This isn't anything against the specs that Holt came up with, but a comment on the original specs of the movie jacket. Specifically mentioned were concerns that the small pockets would lead to the handwarmers blowing out. There were some additional concerns as well and Sgt. Hack just didn't feel comfortable putting out a jacket that he was afraid would have durability issues inherent in the design.

Needless to say, I'm disappointed here. Holt and I put in a lot of work on this--Holt with the lion's share of the spec work and myself helping in that department where I could and putting together the spec 'bible'. But, while I am disappointed (if you watch Supernatural, Bobby's line about "She's the love of my life. How many times do I have to kill her?" comes to mind

), I fully understand the Sgt.'s position. While many of us are SA nuts and things like the small pockets add to the ToD jacket's charm, to the normal consumer, it might very well be a detriment, not a bonus. While I sometimes insulate myself and believe we are the center of the Indy universe, as Michaelson has stated several times, the vast majority of Wings' Indy jacket customers come from outside our community. It's a testament to Hack's fondness for our little group that so much effort was put into trying to make this jacket a reality (like I said, he was the one who brought it back up and tried to make a go of it). But Sgt. Hack and Wings put a lot of emphasis on their jacket's durability and construction and that was the deciding factor here.

Now for the Good Times.

I've been told that the $195.95 jackets have an eta of around 90 days so that is good news. Also, Hack has said that Wings is going to unveil a lambskin Indy jacket in about 90 days that will blow everyone's mind. He said that it is a true lambskin (not sheep) and is one of the best jackets he's worn. From my brief time of talking with him on these projects, he's never been one to "gush" but he was very excited about how nice this jacket was. From the description, it sounds like a jacket that will really carry the Raiders vibe in terms of the leather. Hollowpond, I immediately thought of you when he told me that the jacket will weigh a mere two pounds. So we're talking a perfect 3 season jacket. Hack said that it wasn't designed to go out in the woods (we're talking true lambskin, here), but if you went "out on the town", you'd definitely have the finest jacket there.

So, a little downer on the Temple jacket, but plenty of great news to get frothing about.

Weston · Post by **Weston** » Thu Apr 08, 2010 7:43 pm

I a wallowing in ambivalence. I had high hopes for the ToD jacket. Thanks for taking a swing at it though guys. An accurate ToD from the original maker for under 200 bucks might have been too much to hope for.

On the other hand, this new offering you're talking about takes the edge off the dissapointment a bit.

Again, thanks for the effort!

Weston

ProfessorHenryWJonesJr · Thu Apr 08, 2010 8:15 pm

That is a shame about the "Temple of Doom" jacket. VERY disappointed.

But, I completely understand U.S. Wings and Sgt. Hack's position.

I thank both you COW member "Crismans" and "Holt" for your energy, time, and passion concerning trying to bring the U.S. Wings "Temple Of Doom" jacket to production.

Guess a "TOD" jacket and/or a "Last Crusade" jacket from Tony Nowak or Magnoli's is in consideration for the near future.

But, I am SO looking forward to the new "Indy-Style" jackets that U.S. Wings will be offering in the near future.

$\:D/$ But......90 days or so?

Patience...must learn patience.

BwanaJohn · Post by **BwanaJohn** » Thu Apr 08, 2010 9:17 pm

I was on their "Waiting List" for it, but since I put an offer on a house tonight, maybe it's a Good Thing, but if it doesn't go through, I'm not waiting 90 Days for my First Indy Jacket, I'll be researching them, again this weekend and buying one (My First "Official" One)...

Hollowpond · Post by **Hollowpond** » Fri Apr 09, 2010 6:13 am

crismans wrote: Hollowpond, I immediately thought of you when he told me that the jacket will weigh a mere two pounds. So we're talking a perfect 3 season jacket. Hack said that it wasn't designed to go out in the woods, but if you went "out on the town", you'd definitely have the finest jacket there.

So, a little downer on the Temple jacket, but plenty of great news to get frothing about.

Can't wait to see it!

Shame about that ToD though.

Travis

Mitch LaRue · Post by **Mitch LaRue** » Fri Apr 09, 2010 12:54 pm

Agreed.

The ToD:

The New U.S. Wings Indy Jacket: $\:D/$

But maybe MOST importantly...
crismans & Holt:

Highest respect for all your hard work, gentlemen.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Fri Apr 09, 2010 8:07 pm

Mitch LaRue wrote:Agreed.

The ToD:
The New U.S. Wings Indy Jacket: $\:D/$

But maybe MOST importantly...
crismans & Holt:
Highest respect for all your hard work, gentlemen.

Thanks very much, Sir. But, in all honesty, I feel like I just along for the ride. It's certainly been a fun one, though.

Hollowpond · Post by **Hollowpond** » Fri Apr 09, 2010 10:30 pm

Is the new Raiders offering in the $195 range?

Travis

knibs7 · Post by **knibs7** » Fri Apr 09, 2010 10:31 pm

So basically we are NEVER going to get a SA ToD jacket?

Kyle

Hollowpond · Post by **Hollowpond** » Fri Apr 09, 2010 10:54 pm

knibs7 wrote:So basically we are NEVER going to get a SA ToD jacket?

Kyle

not looking to good now

Travis

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Sun Apr 11, 2010 10:46 pm

Maybe Sgt. Hack would be willing to pass the ToD prototype on to Todds Costumes, or Magnoli? I mean, I fully understand & respect why US Wings won't produce it, but that's no reason for us to give up on finding a vendor that's willing.

Hollowpond · Post by **Hollowpond** » Mon Apr 12, 2010 5:36 am

Chewbacca Jones wrote:Maybe Sgt. Hack would be willing to pass the ToD prototype on to Todds Costumes, or Magnoli? I mean, I fully understand & respect why US Wings won't produce it, but that's no reason for us to give up on finding a vendor that's willing.

GREAT idea Chewie!

Travis

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Mon Apr 12, 2010 11:38 am

Hollowpond wrote:Is the new Raiders offering in the $195 range?

Travis

The new lambskin that Hack was raving about to me is going to run for $195 (same as the goat and vintage cowhide being made overseas), I believe. I'm almost positive that there won't be a more ToD oriented pattern from Wings due to the issues I mentioned above. While that news really disappoints me as I would have loved to get a more SA jacket from the original manufacturer (the whole reason I "fell" into this), I fully understand the reasons behind it.

As far as Magnoli and Todd, Magnoli already offers a pretty SA version from what I've heard (not seen one yet, however, though I'm thinking it may be my next jacket purchase). And I've often wondered about Todd making other movie versions after the bang-up job he did with the Raiders jacket.

Post by **Michaelson** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 6:17 pm

News today is, the jacket will eventually retail for $499.00.

Introductory sale price $195.00. Wings can take pre-orders now. It will be 6
-8 weeks before they finish in production.

Regards! Michaelson

ProfessorHenryWJonesJr · Fri Apr 16, 2010 9:22 pm

$\:D/$ $\:D/$ $\:D/$ $\:D/$

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 9:32 pm

Michaelson wrote:News today is, the jacket will eventually retail for $499.00.

Introductory sale price $195.00. Wings can take pre-orders now. It will be 6
-8 weeks before they finish in production.

Regards! Michaelson

This is the new cowskin jacket that IndyDawg posted about right? I wonder if the new lambskin (I'm assuming that's still a go as well?) will eventually come at a higher price point? From what I hear, it's a truly luxurious lambskin he's got coming out.

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 10:53 pm

Yeah, I'm interested in the new lambskin above all else. But I might want to see pics before ordering one. The hide sounds great, but sometimes the images in my head don't match reality.

JC1972 · Post by **JC1972** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 10:59 pm

I too am interested in the lambskin and was wondering about the price and pics.

Indydawg · Post by **Indydawg** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 11:00 pm

Haven't seen the lamb in person...nor the cowhide, either...yet!

The lamb is, I believe, another few months out.

The cowhide looks fabulous from the pics....can't wait to see it in person. From what Sarge says about it, it's top-notch!

But yes, Chewie...the lamb is on the way, and it is supposed to be drool-worthy.

Post by **Michaelson** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 10:40 am

We just received the sizing chart on these jackets from Wings a few minutes ago. Once we figure out how to compile the chart to this format, we'll post them.

Regards! Michaelson

Indydawg · Post by **Indydawg** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 1:29 pm

Chart posted.

Regards!
Indydawg

Post by **Michaelson** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 1:48 pm

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 6:57 pm

OK, this chart just confuses me. There are measurements that I've never heard of, and it conflicts with what we were discussing about the high-end/low-end stuff. I think.

Texan Scott · Post by **Texan Scott** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 7:01 pm

Just do what I do...print out the chart, tack it on the wall, then blindfolded, throw your dart.

Band Director Jones · Post by **Band Director Jones** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 7:24 pm

Well, that chart makes everything as clear as mud. What the heck is a sweep? If it involves chores, I'm out-a-here.

Indydawg · Post by **Indydawg** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 7:58 pm

The chart shows the measurements, in inches, of the various parts of the jacket. We figured that's what you guys were after....

And Kevin posted earlier today that he talked with someone at Wings and they confirmed that there is no "high" or "low" end sizing....although, that's sure what the size chart on their website SEEMS to show...they said that the chart just shows the range of sizes for each designation...

Go figure...

At any rate-this chart here shows the actual measurements, in inches, of the various parts of the jacket....

Mountaineer · Post by **Mountaineer** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 8:29 pm

When I asked my question in the other thread about where the back length measurement started, I wanted to follow it up with a thanks to you two, Indydawg and Michaelson, for answering that question. Unfortunately it had been locked as I had typed away on my cell.

Anyway, thanks.

I agree that this measurement probably goes from the top of the collar to the hem of the jacket. If so, that makes this jacket a very strong possibility.

For that, my wife curses it...

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Mon Apr 19, 2010 9:11 pm

Hmm, I know that in Westeds, G and Bs, etc., I normally wear a 50. I can wear a 2XL in the Wings and the fit is great.

Forrest For the Trees · Mon Apr 19, 2010 10:53 pm

I've seen this chart before, and I really think a Small would fit me better. 24 inches across the chest for a Medium seems really excessive. That would equate to a size 44 (44 chest plus 4 inches of room), yet their sizing guide suggests a Medium for size 38 through 40

. Thoughts?