The M-1942 Paratrooper Jump Jacket, developed for the U.S. Army Airborne Forces during World War II. The size is barely legible on the contract label as “42L.” It is a relatively large item.

It is a classic piece representative of vintage U.S. military gear from World War II and symbolizes the appearance of paratroopers from the 101st Airborne Division, the 82nd Airborne Division, and other units.

Unlike standard infantry uniforms, the M42 jump uniform was designed exclusively for airborne troops, allowing soldiers to carry the equipment and supplies necessary after a parachute drop.The jacket features a highly distinctive design with four large bellows pockets on the chest and hips, pleats on the back to allow for freedom of movement, epaulets on the shoulders, and a waist belt.

This jacket, which has had a major influence on later military wear and fashion, truly symbolizes the American paratrooper.

What is particularly noteworthy about this specific jacket is, first and foremost, its size.

A white size tag, believed to be the original, remains inside; although the lettering has faded, it can still be read as “42L.” Many surviving original M42 jackets are on the smaller side, making a large size like 42 particularly appealing. This is a piece that should catch the eye of anyone looking for an original WWII jacket they can actually wear.

Another major highlight is that the original waist belt is still intact.

This is one of the defining details of the M42 jump jacket, but over the course of approximately 80 years, many examples have lost their belts. This jacket retains the entire belt, including the buckle, allowing you to fully appreciate the distinctive, waist-cinched silhouette unique to the M42.

The front features a zipper closure, and the zipper still operates smoothly today. Large, three-dimensional pockets are positioned on the chest and hips, with metal snap buttons on the flaps. Epaulets adorn the shoulders, and large action pleats run down the back—details born of functionality that translate directly into overwhelming style.

Additionally, near the collar, there is a long, narrow pocket designed to hold small items such as a pocket knife. These unique details are part of the charm specific to paratrooper gear, setting it apart from standard field jackets.

The overall condition is good for an authentic M42 from this era. While the fabric shows signs of age, such as wear, fading, and minor stains, there are no prominent, large stains that significantly detract from its appearance. The khaki cotton fabric has developed a subdued, vintage-like patina, giving it a unique, authentic feel.

There are traces around the lower pockets that look like cut threads, but this does not affect the functionality of the pockets themselves.

Please note that this item appears to have been stored for a long period, and the metal snap buttons have deteriorated over time. The snaps on some pockets are difficult to fasten or unfasten. Forcing them open or closed could damage the fabric or the snaps themselves; therefore, any snaps that cannot be fastened or unfastened at this time will not be forced open, and the jacket will be delivered in its current condition.

The M42 jump jacket is also strongly associated with the appearance of U.S. paratroopers during the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944. In actual combat, some jackets were reinforced with heliger patches on cargo pockets and elbows to withstand the stress of the jump.Subsequently, as the U.S. military transitioned to the more versatile M-1943 Field Uniform, the M42 became an extremely iconic airborne uniform symbolizing a relatively brief era.

This jacket, which pairs with the M-1942 Jump Trousers, is nothing short of the very embodiment of WWII U.S. Airborne history. It features a large size (readable as 42L), a surviving size tag, the original waist belt, and is in excellent overall condition.

Having actually endured over 80 years, this original piece possesses a presence in a class of its own. It is an exceptionally attractive garment—not only as a collector’s item but also, for those who fit the size, an opportunity to enjoy the luxury of actually wearing the authentic article.

Condition: Used. In good condition considering its age. Shows signs of wear, fading, and minor stains due to age. There are traces of cut threads on the lower pocket. The pocket itself functions properly. The metal snaps show signs of age, and some are difficult to fasten or unfasten. To prevent damage, we have not forced them open or closed.The front zipper functions normally. This item will be shipped as-is.

As this is a used item, returns are not accepted. Thank you for your understanding.

Size (measured flat)
: Shoulder width: 47 cm; Chest
width: 60 cm;
Length: 80 cm
; Sleeve length: 63 cm