REVIEW: Helikon-Tex PCS Parka SnowDrift

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Winter! That means snow, everything white, so all kinds of green camouflage are not quite as effective anymore. Putting on a jacket to protect against the cold wouldn't be a bad idea. Helikon offers a very good solution here, the Personal Clothing System (PCS) Parka in Pencott SnowDrift. Read with us what this smock can do:

Some people love smocks, others don't know what to do with them. The concept of not carrying a combat vest and transporting everything in the jacket may take some getting used to, but it also has its advantages. But this review should not become a discussion of meanings, so here is the smock in front and rear view. Like most smocks, the back is featureless, and all the magic happens on the front.
The smock looks a bit "barrel-like" because we intentionally didn't adjust it. This is to show that you can still wear enough warm clothing underneath. The size of the jacket is 180/104, with the second number describing the closest chest circumference. Our tester has a circumference of about 100 cm.

Here is the magic in the chest area. The rank loop is easy to see. Furthermore, the PCS Parka has two chest pockets and two hidden ones that are closed with a zipper. So a total of 4 chest pockets, actually 5, because there is another small pocket attached to one chest pocket.

A detailed view of the chest pockets. In the hidden pocket, the back of which is made of mesh fabric, there is a cable passage for e.g. headphones, and a D-ring so nothing gets lost. The same can of course be found on the right side. The attached chest pocket is closed with a Canadian button, which is known to be easy to use with gloves. This pocket does not need to be buttoned separately to stay closed, as it is sewn in the style of Russian pockets. This means that when the flap is closed, the upper part of the compartment is also folded over, making the content quite well protected against loss. When everything is closed, nothing goes out. The button provides additional security.

In the lower half of the smock, there are again a total of 4 pockets. Two very spacious, attached pockets (also in a Russian design) that can hold 4-5 AR or AK magazines comfortably. Behind them are hidden hand warmer pockets lined with fleece.

On the upper arms are classic, very diagonally attached upper arm pockets with plenty of Velcro. Here too, there is a cable outlet and a D-ring. Due to the extreme slant, these upper arm pockets may look somewhat strange, but accessing them is extremely practical and comfortable.

There are large ventilation openings under the arms to prevent overheating.

On the inside, the viewer can clearly see the hidden chest and hip pockets. Furthermore, the waist adjustment, which is very simple and done with cords, is visible. Simply put on until the smock fits well and then tie it. Same process on the other side, and the jacket fits perfectly. The smock is closed with a zipper, which is covered by a wide flap.

The shape of the hood is very special. When not adjusted, it strongly resembles a Dutch traditional cap. The hood can be adapted very well and can easily fit a helmet underneath. It can be rolled up and fastened with a button. When rolled up, the "tips" serve as a stand-up collar, if desired.

The SnowDrift pattern from Pencott here in a detailed view. The combination of white, gray, and coyote brown pixels creates a very effective camouflage pattern that imitates dry vegetation in the snow.

CONCLUSION: Helikon has once again brought a very good product to the market with this smock. The smock is very comfortable to wear and impresses with its many successful detail solutions. It is not a jacket that protects against cold, but it has room for a few layers (sweater, fleece) underneath. Those who like smocks will enjoy this one. A classic piece of equipment made of NYCO Ripstop, here in an excellent winter camouflage.
The Helikon-Tex PCS Parka SnowDrift is available from 167 euros from various retailers. Helikon-Tex also offers the PCS Parka in MT Pattern, in PenCott Greenzone, and simple Olive.