REVIEW: Helikon-Tex SFU NEXT Pant Mk2

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Good can hardly get better, but there is always room for improvement. This is what Helikon-Tex must have thought when they started revising their SFU NEXT pants. The result is the SFU NEXT Mk2, a quite straightforward and logical designation. We have been wearing them extensively for the past few months.

Compared to the classic SFU NEXT pants, the differences are not huge, as it was already a very functional and good pair of pants. Especially the details have been revised in the SFU NEXT Mk2, and we must say: the good has gotten better.

The pants are made of Poly-Cotton Stretch RipStop fabric with 50% polyester, 48% cotton, and 2% elastane. The fit is neither baggy nor athletic, a classic straight cut describes it best.

Compared to the SFU NEXT, the Mk2 version has slightly adjusted the pocket layout. On each side, you will find a cargo pocket and underneath, a recessed narrow pocket for rifle magazines or a smartphone. Thanks to the flap at the top, the phone is secured against falling out.

A knife or multitool feels at home in the cargo pocket, but be careful, the clip of the knife may protrude into the smartphone pocket.

On the thighs, you will find cargo pockets measuring 27 x 19 cm, which can hold a lot of stuff thanks to the bellows construction. This pocket is closed with a Velcro point on the backside. The flap is firmly sewn in the front. The cargo pocket of the SFU NEXT Mk2 is oriented towards the back of the thigh, making it very comfortable and practical when lying down.

The knee area is reinforced but smooth. Knee pads sit very well over them.

If you prefer a more discreet look, you can insert knee pads from underneath. A very functional solution.

The cuffs of the pants can be tightened with an old-school tie. If desired, you can thread in an elastic band here.

Now to the back. The SFU NEXT Mk2 offers two back pockets with flaps at the top, similar to the front smartphone pocket. This eliminates buttons or Velcro areas and prevents uncomfortable pressure points.

The seat of the pants is also reinforced. Interestingly, with a very angular cut.

The fly of the SFU NEXT Mk2 pants is buttoned. Easily repairable in the field, that's how we like things.

A nice detail on the buttons is the embossed Helikon-Tex logo.

The belt loops comfortably accommodate a 50mm wide belt. Even a gunbelt can easily pass through without resistance.

The width adjustment on the SFU NEXT Mk2 is done with a Velcro band. For sizing, we wear our jeans in 33/32, so the length fits already, as the pants are 32 inches long for regular. Medium corresponds to a jeans width of 32, and large to 34, so we opted for large regular for the SFU NEXT Mk2, and thanks to the width adjustment, it fits perfectly.

The SFU NEXT Mk2 pants look good both in everyday life and in the field. Even in the height of summer, with temperatures above 30°C, the wearing comfort was pleasant. The stretch material also ensures that your movement is not restricted, and lunging in them is almost a pleasure.

CONCLUSION: