Long before today's technical and outdoor brands, another outfitter was redefining performance wear under the harshest conditions: the United States military. From battlefields to open seas, their designs set the standard for function-driven outerwear that continues to influence modern fashion. With needs at the outer edge of "workwear," military garments have always let form follow function, and few pieces embody that ethos better than the N-1 Deck Jacket. As promised, this week we're dropping the second piece from the Cockpit USA 50th Anniversary Collection, the Shearling Deck Jacket.

Introduced by the U.S. Navy in 1944 as the successor to the peacoat, the N-1 was engineered to shield sailors from punishing winds and salt-laced air aboard destroyers and carriers. Constructed from rugged Bedford Cord and lined with a warm Alpaca-blend, it became one of the most celebrated and versatile garments of WWII, representing durability, warmth, and timeless design.

For our 50th Anniversary Collection, Cockpit USA pays tribute to this naval icon with a bold reinterpretation, the Shearling Deck Jacket. Inspired by the original N-1 but reimagined in rich brown sheepskin, this jacket merges military authenticity with modern refinement. The supple shearling exterior carries the weight of history while offering exceptional insulation and comfort. Traditional details, including the wind flap protector, concealed storm cuffs, and set-in sleeves, remain, preserving the practical DNA of the original N1 Deck Jacket. 

The result is a piece that bridges eras: born from the decks of WWII Navy ships, redefined for life on city streets or cold-weather adventures. This jacket is a celebration of craftsmanship, heritage, and the enduring spirit of those who braved the seas in service to their country.

Cockpit USA has offered the iconic N-1 Deck Jacket for five decades. Shown above in its classic sage color, this notable piece is also available in a rare-to-find Navy Blue. Please note that the first version of the US Navy N1 Deck Jacket had wool-blend alpaca fiber lining; later, this lining was replaced by wool. Cockpit USA's version has a polyester lining, which is lighter and more pleasant to wear while giving the appearance of the original alpaca lining. The USN N1 Jacket pays respect to the hardworking men of the US Navy by replicating the wind flap protector over the zipper front closure, and it's constructed of a unique, rugged Bedford Cord shell. 

Whether you're navigating city streets or naval escapes, both the Shearling Deck Jacket and classic N-1 Deck Jacket deliver timeless style, tactile indulgence, and a story stitched into every seam. 

Hand-crafted in the USA as the originals once were. The Cockpit USA 50th Anniversary Sheepskin Collection honors five decades of authentic American design. Each piece reflects our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, quality materials, and timeless style.

Shop the jackets featured in this blog and similar styles here.