One of the greater pleasures of making leather garments is that they can last a lifetime. If properly cared for, a Cockpit USA jacket can be handed down from one generation to the next. Our passion for making leather flight jackets is rooted in this tradition. To celebrate the Top Gun Day Anniversary, we collaborated with one of Spain’s newest talents, AB Zipper, to create the short film “Through Generations” - a thoughtful look into the skills and passion that AB’s father has passed down to him.
Featuring Cockpit USA’s Movie Hero© Top Gun G-1 Jacket, “Through Generations” is a reminder that life is fleeting, we must “feel the need for speed” always and it is up to later generations to preserve the memory of the fallen. Written, produced and musically composed by AB Zipper, watch “Through Generations”, a short film and read a short Q & A with AB below.
Cockpit USA : What are three words that describe your work ?
AB Zipper : My art is born from a mix of: Passion, purpose and faith.
This short film in 3 words would be: Family, heritage and passion.Cockpit USA : How did you find the Cockpit USA brand?
AB Zipper: I found Cockpit USA jackets through a beautiful aviation store in Madrid called “BuckerBook” shortly after watching “Top Gun: Maverick” of course.
Cockpit USA : When did you discover your passion for music and film?
AB Zipper : I discovered my passion for music and film when I was a child. I’ve always had a strong musical ear and a natural ability to replicate melodies on the piano. This led me to start composing my own music at the age of 12, and combining it with visual storytelling only deepened my passion.
My father introduced me to film culture, from Charles Chaplin to Steven Spielberg—we would analyze movies, discuss camera shots, and watch behind-the-scenes footage together.
Cockpit USA : Tell us about your short film, “Through Generations”?
AB Zipper: This short film captures the identity of Cockpit USA through a story about a young man and the iconic leather jacket—something that I hope will resonate with many people who watched Top Gun with their families back in the 80s, many of whom are no longer with us.
Cockpit USA : What inspired this film?
AB Zipper: This project is a combination of personal influences: the film culture my father introduced me to, some of the places I love in Madrid, my fascination with aviation, the impact of Top Gun, and my interest in fashion and clothing.
Cockpit USA : This short film was created in Spain. Can you tell us about the locations you chose and why you chose them?
AB Zipper: This short film was shot in Madrid, the capital of Spain, the city I live in and deeply love for its rich culture, history, art, and food. The opening scene features a viewpoint overlooking the Royal Palace—the largest in Western Europe—and the Almudena Cathedral. I wanted to highlight a small part of the city alongside the Cuatro Vientos Air Base, where we filmed the afternoon snack and motorcycle scenes. It’s also where I first discovered Cockpit jackets, thanks to the most prominent aviation store in Spain. Interestingly, Cuatro Vientos is home to the first air traffic control tower—built even before the one at London’s Croydon Aerodrome.
Cockpit USA : Who inspires you creatively?
AB Zipper : I’m inspired by many people, and the list would be endless!
I try to learn from the best in different areas, but primarily: Michael Jackson for his influence on music and music videos, Steven Spielberg for storytelling, John Williams for orchestration, and the entire 80s era. I’m also inspired by numerous musicians and music producers such as Quincy Jones, Rod Temperton, David Foster, Martin Garrix, Avicii, Max Martin, and Charlie Puth, among others.
Featured above is Actress, Débora Lonel wearing Cockpit USA's B-15 Nylon Bomber Jacket.
Cockpit USA : Which are your favorite Cockpit USA Jackets?
AB Zipper: I’d have so many that my mom would probably ban me, lol. I’m definitely a jacket lover, among my favorites is the Movie Hero G-1. I love nylon bomber jackets, and you’d be surprised to know that my favorite is the women’s B-15 bomber jacket (I love that sapphire blue! UNIQUE!).
I’d also wear the Top Gun CWU/36P and I love the varsity jackets. I would definitely be a Cockpit ambassador.
Cockpit USA : How do you wear your Top Gun Jacket?
AB Zipper: It depends on the day. If I want to be a bit bolder, I’d wear a white t-shirt to create more contrast with the jacket, navy blue jeans, and brown leather boots.
If I want to be a bit more understated, I’d go for a black t-shirt and black jeans. Jeans…always! And of course… Ray Ban aviator sunglasses!
Cockpit USA : What advice would you share with a creative who is looking to become a music composer or a film maker ?
AB Zipper: Always take things a step further, immerse yourself in art, talented people, and do plenty of research. Do things in a way that no one else would. Identity is key, so make sure you do things with purpose. Practice a lot and aim for excellence in everything you do!
Cockpit USA : What is next for AB Zipper?
AB Zipper: Anything could be next for AB Zipper—whether it's a short film, a music video, or a music release. Right now, I’m focused on releasing a funk song in collaboration with a singer from Orlando. You’ll hear a snippet of it in the short film. It’s called "Sunglasses On," a motivational song that will definitely cheer you up!
