Throughout history, the U.S. military has unintentionally inspired many fashion trends. One of the most well-known is the M-65 field jacket for men. The M-65 was created in the 1940s at the height of WWII and is distinguishable from other field jackets thanks to its four front pockets.

Designed to be functional and durable, the M-65 has always been decidedly utilitarian and masculine. Aside from active-duty soldiers wearing M-65s, Elvis Presley was photographed wearing his in the 1950s and Robert De Niro wore one in 1976’s Taxi Driver. That endorsement from some of the world’s biggest stars skyrocketed the M-65’s popularity.

People started to notice that M-65 jackets weren’t just useful, but looked great on and could be worn all year. That versatility helped the M-65 stand the test of time and today, nearly 80 years later, designers reimagine the style every season.

1. Alpha Industries M-65 Field Jacket (Heritage)

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Alpha Industries is an American company founded in 1959. Almost since the beginning of its inception, Alpha Industries has made clothing for the U.S. military. Specifically, Alpha has been making M-65 field jackets for the military for well over 50 years. It’s safe to say they’ve perfected their craft.

Remaining true to classic military styling, Alpha’s M-65 jacket is oversized and features shoulder epaulets. There are drawstrings at the hood, waist, and hem, along with four exterior pockets and two interior pockets. The jacket is both wind- and water-resistant, and the addition of the button-in ALS/92 liner (sold separately) makes it a solid winter coat. The liner is made of durable, ultra-light ripstop nylon and features knit cuffs, so it can also be worn as a standalone jacket.

2. Rothco M-65 Field Jacket

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Rothco makes its M-65 field jacket to precise military specs for an authentic fit and feel. The water-repellent cotton/polyester blend twill fabric keeps you warm and dry regardless of what the weather throws at you, while the hidden drawstring hood can be deployed easily when you need it – and zippered back into the collar when you don’t.