Avirex
American maker of licensed military flight jackets. 'Type A-2' references, 'Est. 1975', and the wings-and-star motif run through its tags.
- Origin
- USA
- Founded
- 1975
- Category
- Outerwear & Military
- Documented eras
- 4
How Avirex labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
Military-Spec Flight Tags
Tags use military-style lettering and 'Type A-2' or other spec references, with 'Authentic Avirex Flight Shirts', 'Armed Forces Manufacturer' and certificate-of-authenticity wording.
- Tags often feature military-style lettering and references to “Type A-2” or other military specifications.
- Common mentions include “Authentic Avirex Flight Shirts” and “Armed Forces Manufacturer.
- Labels like “Certificate of Authenticity” may appear, emphasizing the brand’s dedication to quality.
How to spot it
Military-style 'Type A-2' references and spec wording.
Value signal
Strong; 80s Avirex flight jackets are highly collectible.
1990–1999
Blocky Logo, Korea & USA
Wider rectangular tags with bold blocky 'Avirex' logos, often 'Made in USA' or 'Made in Korea', new lines like 'Avirex Adventure' appearing.
- Wider rectangular tags are more prominent, often with bold, blocky “Avirex” logos.
- Many tags include “Made in USA” or “Made in Korea,” indicating manufacturing origin.
- Patches for “Type A-2” and other military-inspired references remain, but new lines like “Avirex Adventure” start to appear.
How to spot it
A wide blocky 'Avirex' tag, USA or Korea make.
Value signal
Strong; 90s Avirex is a peak hip-hop-era seller.
2000–2009
Star & Eagle Loop Tags
Military and aviation themes continued with star or eagle motifs; loop-style tags emerged and 'Avirex LTD' tags signalled brand expansion.
- Emphasis on military or aviation themes persists, with logos that may include star or eagle motifs.
- More loop-style tags begin to emerge, and tags like “Avirex LTD” indicate brand expansion.
- Letter sizing remains consistent across various models.
How to spot it
Loop tags with star/eagle motifs, sometimes 'Avirex LTD'.
Value signal
Common; modest resale.
2010–2019
High-Contrast Heritage Tags
High-contrast modern tags emphasising 'A Standard of Excellence Since 1975', with newer make locations like Indonesia or Vietnam.
- Modern tags often feature high-contrast designs with logos and manufacturing details.
- Tags emphasize “A Standard of Excellence Since 1975,” maintaining the aviation heritage.
- Newer production locations like Indonesia or Vietnam appear, reflecting global manufacturing.
How to spot it
'Since 1975' wording with Indonesia/Vietnam make.
Value signal
Modern; priced on the piece.