REVIEW: Helikon-Tex Trooper Softshell

Countless reviews of the Trooper from Helikon-Tex are already available online. No wonder, as this jacket model is becoming more and more of a classic, following the Level 5. And that's a good thing, because it's simply awesome. Find out why here. You can also see the Trooper in action: here the Austrian Jagdkommando with Helikon-Tex Troopers heading to the Mediterranean. Here in Multicam - or as Helikon calls it: Camogrom. The jacket we are presenting has a Multi-Terrain Pattern (MTP), which is British Multicam. The Trooper (top: front; bottom: back) is generally considered as a softshell - well, that's also what it says in the self-designation, but this may be a bit confusing. Because the average person usually understands softshells to have a rough inner and a smooth outer surface, a two-layer construction, or even laminated models. This is not the case here. This jacket consists of exactly one layer and only one layer. Period, that's it. No laminate, no fleece, nothing. Now let's look at the further structure before we examine its characteristics. The jacket is cut sporty-medium-short, ending about a hand's breadth below the waist, which unfortunately makes it too short to hide an OTW handgun. In general, it is rather small in size and should therefore definitely be chosen one size larger if you seriously intend to wear it. The softshell has seven pockets and a stowable hood. The hood itself is adjustable with a tension cord and the popular elastic cords in the large pockets at Helikon. It has a small, un-reinforced visor. It is ideally concealed in the collar. The hood is stored in the collar by means of two zipper slides, making it easy to access. But can be extended at any time when needed. The pockets: on the arms there is one upper arm pocket each, which is cut high up to the shoulder inside to have enough space for Israeli bandages, PMR radio, and more. Which is really practical. Velcro for patches, that's a must. Of course on both arms. Furthermore, it has cable openings to connect microphones and earplugs to the radios, and of course, the obligatory Velcro patches are not to be missed! On the left forearm, there is also a small pocket, just big enough to accommodate a Buff and one or two cereal bars. More would be possible but would hardly make sense, and comfort would suffer greatly. Next are the backpack-friendly chest pockets - here in the internal view, they are easily recognizable by the large zippers on the chest - their location allows the use of waist belts without any hindrance. They are further divided inside to neatly organize items like pens, pepper spray, baton, GPS, etc. They also have cable outlets into the interior, as well as D-rings for dummy cords and hood adjustment. At the back, there is a double-accessible lumbar pocket, large enough for maps, extra hats, gloves, etc. And lastly, a Velcro-closed inner pocket on the left chest for the smartphone or similar items.

SPARTANAT is the online magazine for Military News, Tactical Life, Gear & Reviews.
Send us your news: [email protected]