The Sidcot flying suit was developed late in 1916 by Sidney Cotton, (thus the abbreviated name “Sidcot”) was used by the British, French, and later, American Air Services. Service members found that the leather flying coats in use were simply not protective enough for the piercing cold of the high altitudes, often as high as 20,000 – 22,000 feet. A one-piece flying suit was found more protective.
Later models of the Sidcot were provided with electrical heating systems. Lt. H. S. Pelton, an American flying with the R.F.C./R.A.F, used this particular suit in the museum collection
In 1918, the American Air Service copied this design and the suit was affectionately dubbed a “Teddy Bear” flying suit.
The entire flying gear displayed, from goggles to gloves and boots were donated by the late and former Lieutenant Harold S. Pelton
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