REVIEW: Helikon Patriot Fleece Jacket

The Patriot is a fleece jacket from the Polish manufacturer Helikon-Tex. We at SPARTANAT have extensively tested it for you and show what you can expect from the jacket.

As can be easily seen, it is a hooded jacket, the cut is clearly inspired by TAD Gear. The "Superfine Fleece" (390g/m²) should ensure that moisture is transported away from the body while retaining warmth. However, the moisture transport works only to a limited extent, those who run with the Patriot or are out on warm days quickly start to sweat.

In addition to a pocket on both sides at the lower back, the jacket has storage options on the arms and chest. Velcro for attaching patches is sewn over the upper arm pockets. However, the panel is quite stiff, so it can be occasionally irritating even without a patch.
The front pockets with access at the chest are spacious. Heavier items should be placed in the back pocket, as otherwise the jacket fits very poorly. But for map material or a wallet, the front ones are optimal. Unfortunately, what the Patriot lacks are pockets at the hips. So on cold days, you should take gloves with you, because you can't properly park your hands in the chest pocket.

In the elbow area and on the forearms, the fleece jacket is additionally reinforced. The Cordura there is also water-repellent, which cannot necessarily be said of the rest of the jacket. The Patriot protects well against light rain, but in heavier rain, it's better to have a poncho or similar to put on.
For milder days, the jacket has ventilation openings under the arms. In general, it can be said that the zippers used are a major weak point of the Patriot. Both in wind and rain, the elements quickly penetrate to the body there. This makes the jacket overall good for cool days, but as soon as rain approaches or it gets windy, it's better to reach for other products.

CONCLUSION: Inspired by TAD, the Patriot is a good jacket with a good price-performance ratio, where you get what you pay for.

The Helikon-Tex Patriot Fleece Jacket is available in sizes XS-XXXL and different colors (Black, Olive, Foliage & Coyote). It is priced at around EUR 59. It is available at Camostore.de