Aviation Legend: Originally Inspired by the Gorilla Test Pilot
Unleash your inner aviator with The Primal Pilot Tee! This powerful and unique design is a bold homage to a real-life legend: the test pilot for the United States' first jet engine fighter plane, the Bell P-59 Airacomet, was Jack Woolams. To maintain secrecy around the propeller-less jet, Woolams would sometimes fly wearing a gorilla mask, a derby hat, and smoking a cigar. This inspired The Primal Pilot Tee!
This elaborate prank was intended to make any reports of a propeller-less plane seem so unbelievable that observers would be dismissed as having a hallucination or telling a joke. Air Force psychologists reportedly helped convince other pilots that they hadn't seen a gorilla flying a plane, since everyone "knew" a plane couldn't fly without a propeller. This story is now considered a surreal and humorous moment in aviation history.
Gorilla Art has been popular, since Woolams prank and has moved through many phases of the design, from the original aviator inspired design to militia gorilla to gangster gorilla to hiphop gorilla. The Primal Pilot Tee design is a distinct wearable piece of art, with a military history, gritty vintage style, and aviation folklore.
Why The Primal Pilot Tee is Legendary:
- Unique History: Inspired by a fantastic, true story from the dawn of the jet age—a guaranteed conversation starter.
- Bold Vintage Aesthetic: The dark, detailed illustration and retro color palette in The Primal Pilot Tee make it a perfect graphic for fans of WWII nose art and military history.
- Heavyweight Comfort: Built for durability and everyday wear on a high-quality, Heavyweight 100% Cotton Unisex T-shirt.
Style & Sizing
- Unisex Heavyweight Cotton T-shirt: A comfortable, classic fit that holds its shape.
- Available in a Range of Colors & Sizes: Choose the ideal backdrop to showcase this iconic design, The Primal Pilot Tee.
Size guide (values in inches)
| Size | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL | 5XL |
| Width | 18.00 | 20.00 | 22.00 | 24.00 | 26.00 | 28.00 | 30.00 | 32.00 |
| Length | 28.00 | 29.00 | 30.00 | 31.00 | 32.00 | 33.00 | 34.00 | 35.00 |
|
Sleeve Length (from center back) |
15.10 | 16.50 | 18.00 | 19.50 | 21.00 | 22.40 | 23.70 | 25.00 |
| Size Tolerance | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 |
