Aug 22,
2024
Words by
Renée Diehl
#Heritage
#N-3B
#N-2B

Overqualified and underpaid:
The N-3B and N-2B

As much as we love the classic bomber, we have to admit that it’s not ideal for year-round wear, especially in colder climates. That’s where our N-3B winter parka and N-2B winter jacket come in, offering the warmth and functionality you need to brave the cold.


Finding the perfect winter coat can be a challenge: some are too bulky, others too warm, or simply impractical. But what if you opted for a model designed with true functionality in mind? Like our popular lighter-weight MA-1 bomber jacket, the N-2B and N-3B were developed for pilots and ground-level troops—except these jackets were intended for those stationed at cold climate bases back in the 1950s.

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“Alpha’s OG ‘Heritage’ N-3B remains unimprovable—so packed with practical details and timeless style that it’s overqualified, and utterly perfect, for civilian life.”


(CREDIT: JAKE WOOLF, GQ US)

The N-3B: Working overtime

If the N-2B and N-3B were people, they’d be overqualified—and underpaid, at that. Both jackets feature polyfill insulation, a water-resistant nylon shell, and a closure system that includes both zippers and buttons to keep the cold at bay. A standout feature is the shearling-lined hood with faux fur trim, which has a zipper down the center allowing it to lay flat against your shoulders. Both the N-3B parka and the N-2B jacket are equipped with reach-through handwarmer pockets, making sure your hands stay warm while easily accessing your phone in your pants pocket.

N-3B / N-2B (HERITAGE) / ALPHA INDUSTRIES USA

Jacket vs. parka: What’s the difference?

The primary difference between the two is their length: the N-2B jacket ends at the hips, while the N-3B parka extends slightly below them, offering additional coverage and warmth.


Did you know…?

Originally offered in midnight blue, the N-3B parka was later changed to sage green and redesigned when it was adopted by all military services. This same shift occurred with the MA-1, even though many people mistakenly believe sage green was the original colorway.

ALPHA INDUSTRIES EUROPE

OFFICIAL U.S. DEFENSE DEP. CONTRACTOR
EST. OCTOBER 1959