Iron Heart’s 3-in-1 take on the classic M-65 is a jacket for all seasons — and tough as hell, to boot.
First introduced by the United States armed forces in 1965 – as the name suggests – the M1965 Field Jacket is almost always referred to as an M65. After becoming standard issue for servicemen during the Vietnam War, the simple piece of military kit became a sartorial symbol for the war itself. It was worn ironically by anti-war protesters and proudly by veterans. During the 1970s, pop culture icons like John Lennon, Serge Gainsbourg, and Taxi Driver’s Travis Bickle established the M65 as a fashion staple. Enormous surplus production flooded the market during and after the war, allowing for easy and affordable access to this extremely versatile outerwear.
Countless variations exist of the now essential piece of menswear, but very few can stand up to the durability and versatility of Iron Heart’s Quilt Lining M65 Field Jacket. The Japanese denim brand swung for the fences, in typical fashion, with an 8 oz. 50/50 cotton/nylon blend shell that can take a beating and look all the better for it. Aside from leveling up the fabric and hardware – including a two-way heavy-duty YKK zipper – a few variations from the military issue were made, with the addition of side vent hand warmer pockets being the notable exception. The throat latch and cuffs are velcro, keeping in line with later military editions, which make for easier bundling up with gloves on. When faced with any unexpected precipitation, a 100% nylon hood is folded into the collar with easy zipper access.
What really sets this particular M65 apart is the inclusion of a removable liner jacket. In dedication to the theme, the liner jacket is a replica of 1960s-era US military gear. It is a super lightweight and weather-resistant quilted nylon with polyester fill. You can wear the liner as a stand-alone jacket, making it the third option in this 3-in-1 set.
Available in Olive or Black for $750 from Iron Heart.
