Our Team's Favorite Pilot Gear

This month, we wanted to share some of the AOPA staff’s favorite Pilot Gear Products. Whether you are looking for a gift for someone, are shopping for some new aviation gear, or are just curious about Pilot Gear Products, our staff is sure to help!

Eddie - Senior Designer

What is your favorite AOPA product?

The Balsa Wood Tee. (shown above)

Why is the tee your favorite piece on the Pilot Gear Store?

It has a nice athletic fit and I love the color and the vintage look to it. The balsa airplane is very nostalgic. I used to play with these planes as a kid, so it brings back memories of my childhood. I also love that we call it "The Original Light sport" to keep up with the playfulness of the design. I would definitely wear this to air events next year to show it off, I'm sure I would get compliments on it. 

Emily - Manager, Product Marketing

What is your favorite AOPA product?

The Appliqued AOPA Sweatshirt.

Why is the sweatshirt your favorite piece on the Pilot Gear Store?

Not just for dads anymore, the dad sweatshirt, with its gigantic AOPA letters appliqued on the front in navy and white letters, will let everyone around know how you feel about your favorite aviation organization. The oversized fit is perfect for hiding your holiday feasting or smuggling a pie or two home. It’s perfect for sitting around the fire or cool evenings at Airventure. No one else will have a crewneck quite like it—but they won’t have to stop you to ask where it’s from, either. Like your favorite aircraft, it only gets better with time.

 Leigh - Graphic Designer/Digital Asset Manager in Publications

What is your favorite AOPA product?

The Appliqued AOPA Sweatshirt.

Why is the sweatshirt your favorite piece on the Pilot Gear Store?

I like to call it the 90s dad sweatshirt. It’s super comfy and has a slightly oversized fit. It keeps me warm but is also light enough to not overheat me. The color has an awesome vintage fade to it. I love that I can wear it while working from home to just be comfortable, or out walking/hiking/running errands, or literally just anywhere. 

Kevin - Social Media Marketer

What is your favorite AOPA product?

The Mesh Back Hat with Leather Patch.

Why is the hat your favorite piece on the Pilot Gear Store?

The hat is great for flying year-round, it's low profile and lack of button on the top make it ideal for headset wearing. This is my go-to hat whenever I need one for flying or I'm spending a long day at an airshow. It also gets the most compliments out of any hat I've ever had. Plus, it has the "if you know, you know" factor if worn in public. Expect head nods from other pilots out there.