During the mid to late 1930's the 'Popular Racer' jacket was introduced as an updated version of the Universal Racer jacket, it was essentially the same design, made from Horsehide but featured a zippered front and pockets instead of the buttoned front of its predecessor.
1940s vintage catalogue image.
1940s vintage catalogue image.
The 40's saw the jacket renamed as the Universal Racer Mk II and its catalogue description carried lines like: "Our suits are cut to fit when racing and not for "promenade percies." and "All pads are in the right places and not just slapped on the suit where someone thinks they will look nice." Tough words for a tough jacket. ('Universal Racer Mk2 late 1950s 60s Jacket' also available HERE)