The field jacket has a long-standing pedigree in military history. With many iterations over the years, none remains more iconic than the M-65, a style first introduced by Alpha Industries to outfit soldiers during the Vietnam War. With four front pockets — two on the hips, two on the chest — to carry excess cargo, the M-65 integrated a roll-up hoodie that fit into a zipped pouch around the collar, along with a hardy brass zipper in place of buttons for efficiency.
Though Alpha Industries hasn’t produced an M-65 for combat since the ’90s, the field jacket endures as a study in simplicity, utility and comfort. Today it’s worn casually by men and women alike, and treasured for its utilitarian design and nondescript aesthetic. Here are a number of versatile field jackets in different fabrics, from waxed cotton to canvas, that build upon the original.
Jackets:
Bonobos Lightweight Military Jacket ($228)
Barbour Sapper Jacket ($429)
Alpha Industries M-65 Field Coat ($180)
Apolis Linen Field Jacket ($288)
Orvis Woodside Meadow Jacket ($298)
Vince Military 3-in-1 Waxed Cotton Jacket ($487)
The Real McCoy’s M-65 Field Jacket (~$541)
Saint Laurent Cotton and Linen-Blend Field Jacket ($1,850)
Gubb & Mackie Raleigh Squad (~$296)
Private White V.C. ($570)
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