Flying Suit

The cotton oversuit suit had been in the D Lewis catalogue since the 1920’s when it was aimed equally at the aviator and motorist. In 1936 the suit was redesigned with notable addition of ‘cap cious’ shin pockets enabling easy access to logbooks and maps whilst in a seated ...The cotton oversuit suit had been in the D Lewis catalogue since the 1920’s when it was aimed equally at the aviator and motorist. In 1936 the suit was redesigned with notable addition of ‘cap cious’ shin pockets enabling easy access to logbooks and maps whilst in a seated position.

The suit grew in popularity with airmen and was soon adopted by members of the Auxillary Air Force. The suit continued to be worn into WW2 as it provided protection from oil and splashes to uniforms often privately purchased from tailors. Although initially only available in white cotton, by 1938 navy and black colours had also been added.

The suit was notably worn by fighter pilots during the Battle of Britain and in his role as Chief test pilot, Alex Henshaw reputedly tested 10% of all Spitfires and Sea ires made, along with the odd Lancaster Bomber, whilst wearing his white D Lewis flying suit.