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Why CP Company's Goggle Jacket Is Worth Every Penny Pre-Owned
Words by Heather June Coombs
The Goggle Jacket is a statement of intent, not a passing fad.
The Enduring Appeal of the Goggle Jacket
The CP Company Goggle Jacket is not just a piece of outerwear. It is the definitive garment for a particular strain of British subculture. Born from military pragmatism and filtered through Italian sportswear innovation, it represents a specific kind of functional cool. Buying one pre-owned isn't just about saving money; it’s about owning a piece of that history. This isn't a jacket designed for fleeting trends. Its appeal is rooted in intelligent design and robust construction, qualities that guarantee its relevance year after year. The Goggle Jacket is a statement of intent, not a passing fad.
Massimo Osti's Functional Vision
Massimo Osti, the brain behind CP Company and Stone Island, was obsessed with military archives and industrial processes. His work in the late 70s and early 80s was about pushing fabrics and finishes, making clothes that genuinely served a purpose. The Goggle Jacket, specifically the Mille Miglia Goggle Jacket which debuted in 1988, was a direct result of this ethos. It took inspiration from the jackets worn by drivers in the Mille Miglia endurance race, often needing protection from the elements at speed. The integrated goggles, originally called ‘watchviewer goggles’ on early prototypes, offered both utility and an unmistakable aesthetic. They are not merely stylistic additions; they were designed for practicality.
Construction That Lasts
A good Goggle Jacket, even a pre-owned one, feels substantial. This is down to the quality of the materials and the manufacturing. Early models often featured innovative fabrics like `Tela Stella` or `50 Fili`, a cotton/nylon blend pioneered by Osti. Modern versions continue this tradition with robust nylons, cotton sateens, and sometimes technical membranes. Check the stitching. Examine the hardware: zips, press studs, and buckles should feel solid and operate smoothly. CP Company does not skimp on these details. A well-made jacket holds its form, even after years of wear. This is why they withstand the rigours of the secondary market so well.
The Resale Market's Favourite
Walk into any respectable pre-owned store or scroll through online listings, and a solid Goggle Jacket will command a respectable price. Certain eras and specific models, like the original Mille Miglia or the recent Chrome-R versions, naturally fetch more. This isn't speculation; it's a reflection of consistent demand. The jackets that maintain their value best are those in good original condition, with all components intact – crucially, the goggles themselves. A missing goggle renders the jacket incomplete and significantly reduces its appeal and value. Always check they are present and undamaged.
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Identifying the Real Deal
Authenticating a CP Company Goggle Jacket can be straightforward once you know what to look for. Check the internal labels – the main label, the wash care labels, and the often complex fabric composition labels. They should be clear, well-stitched, and correctly spelled. Counterfeits often betray themselves with poor stitching or typos. Examine the branding on the hardware. Genuine CP Company zips and buttons will be branded, often with precise engravings. The goggles themselves should be robust, with clear lenses that aren't cloudy or easily scratched. The fit and cut should also feel right, reflecting the pattern making expertise behind the brand. If it feels flimsy, it’s probably not real.
More Than Just a Jacket
Buying a pre-owned Goggle Jacket is an investment in a garment that transcends fashion cycles. It’s part of a bloodline that runs from military uniform to football terraces to high-street staple. It’s about utility, durability, and a deep appreciation for intelligent design. You’re not just buying a coat; you’re buying a piece of design history that still performs its function decades later.
