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Air Force pilots and aviation crew traditionally used flight suits as a way to differentiate themselves from the military. If you want to get super technical about it, they are actually considered uniforms.
Presently, however, they are widely available for a range of uses. These suits are also applicable for military use because of their ingenious design and functionality.
Rothco at All Security Equipment is a great brand to try. The suits are designed for comfort, durability, versatility, and functionality. Rothco flight suits come in an assortment of colors for different aviation jobs and training or simply for personal use.
We also offer flight gloves and flight jackets to complete your gear set up so you can resist the drastically cold weather you typically experience at higher altitudes.
The Functionality of Flight Suits
Military clothing may consist of pants, jackets, helmets, neck gaiters, and gloves and all of these are worn by military pilots onboard.
A flight suit is not only used for surviving varying temperatures or serving as protective equipment but is also very functional because of all of these added features:
- The most prominent feature of flight suits is the presence of multiple pockets strategically sewn throughout the suit. These pockets are used for storing different items and packing survival gear, utility tools, radios, maps, personal devices and snacks pilots take while on the go.
- Velcro Enclosures. These are used to secure various parts of the flight suit, like the pockets and cuffs. Velcro enclosures also allow for quick removal and fastening and are also reliable for holding the seams together.
- Zipper closures in these suits are used for easy wear and removal of the garment. Zippers are a necessary feature that allows pilots to dress efficiently and quickly during pre-flight time or emergencies.
- This is a functional feature to ensure that the pilot is well-protected and snug during long flights and in cold temperatures.
- Loop Fields. These are dedicated spaces on the flight suits for displaying patches, badges, name tags, and other insignia. Loop fields are used for easy identification so that flight crews can recognize each other - even in a crowded environment.
What Makes a Good Flight Suit?
A flight suit should be able to protect the flight personnel while enabling the wearer to do their in-flight job without any restrictions. A good flight suit is also functional and allows you to carry items with you like duty gear, tools, and more.
With a plethora of flight suit options available on the market today, the choices can become overwhelming. But here are a few considerations to ensure you are buying a high-flying performance suit.
Flame-Resistant
FR or flame-resistant flight suits are designed to extinguish themselves if, by chance, the suit catches fire. It prevents the garment from being engulfed in fire and prevents fire from spreading.
Not all flight suits are flame-proof, though. You can check its label and look for the FR rating, which indicates the flame-proof material used.
Comfortable Design
Choose flight suits that are comfortable and do not restrict movement. You will expectedly be wearing the flight suit for an extended period so choose one with a simple design.
If you have the chance to try it on before buying, even better. The right flight suit should not feel awkward or restrictive.
Some aviation suits have underarm holes or vents for breathability during warm weather for added comfort.
A Good Fit
If you are buying your flight suit online, go over the size guide and choose the suit that fits your body frame well. It should not be tight-fitting because this limits mobility.
sIt also shouldn’t be too loose because that can pose a tripping hazard. Fortunately, many flight suits, like those from Rothco, have a range of sizes that suit different physiques.
Rothco pilot suits even have adjustable waist belts and wrist cuff tabs where you can alter the fit using a hook and loop closure. There are also pleated leg zippers at the front bottom of the pant legs.
Thermal Regulation
Enduring low temperatures is a persistent problem among pilots because of the altitude. Having the right flight suit solves problems posed by different environmental conditions.
Flight suits are made of materials that can withstand the cold. These suits help regulate body temperature and keep the wearer warm even in extremely cold environments. By maintaining core body temperature, pilots can move around freely and do their job without a problem.
Sweat and Odor Resistance
Military flight suits are moisture-wicking, which prevents the build-up of moisture inside the suit when the weather gets warmer.
Flight suits dry faster and prevent users from drenching the skin in sweat or water. It is also an important factor in regulating body temperature. Its fast-drying technology may be able to resist odor for a more comfortable feel.
Maintaining a Flight Suit
Flight suits are made durable, but their service life can easily be extended when handled properly. Here are some tips for keeping your flight suit in top condition:
Washing
Machine wash the flight suit in warm water (140ᵒF) on a Light Spin cycle. Use high-quality liquid laundry detergent or industrial-based soap.
Drying
The best way of drying a flight suit is in a dryer at a low-temperature setting (140 to 160ᵒF). You may also air-dry it in a well-ventilated area, but avoid exposing it to direct sunlight to prevent it from fading.
Ironing
Iron the flight suit while it’s still damp at a temperature not exceeding 280ᵒF. If the wrinkles are deep, try using a fabric steamer to straighten them out.
Storing
Hang the flight suit in a cool and dry area away from moisture; otherwise, it can get musty. Keep the flight suit away from fire because this can compromise the fire-resistant capability of the suit and reduce its level of protection.
Ordering Your Flight Suit From All Security Equipment
If you need a flight suit or related products for your job or other purposes, check out our flight suit collection at All Security Equipment. We offer unisex flight suits made of cotton blends for comfort, breathability, and thermal protection.
Contact customer service today if you have any questions or problems with the size guide. You may also refer to the size chart and pick the right fit before placing your order.
