REVIEW: UF PRO AcE GEN.2 WINTER COMBAT SHIRT

Recently, the second version of the AcE Winter Combat Shirt was released – the predecessor version 1 HERE in the SPARTANAT review – and is meant to accompany us through the cold season. With the first version, we had already made very good experiences, it has been our absolute go-to shirt for activities around the 0 point with plate carriers. What can the second version do? At first glance from the front, not much has changed. It looks pretty similar. It also looks relatively similar from the side, except for two small details, but more on that later. First, regarding the size, it is worn as a Medium again, as with the other Combat Shirts from UF PRO. In terms of size, it is cut the same as the old one, so athletically. Ideally, you wear a functional shirt underneath. Pay attention to the size chart, if you are between two sizes, choose the larger one. View from the back, the length is well chosen. Here in the photo a bit ridden up due to movements. But a Combat Shirt should be worn in the pants so that the belt can be securely fastened over it. Thanks to the slim cut and also because there is no zip closure in the lower area, it can be stowed away well. Pressure points are avoided. At the front, there is again a diagonally set zip closure that reaches halfway down. This helps with putting on and taking off, as well as with temperature regulation when not wearing a plate carrier over it. For those wondering why the zipper is diagonally placed, we can help. When a jacket is worn over it, there are fewer pressure points because the zips do not overlap. On the collar, there is not only a beautiful embroidered logo but also an adjustment option. Simply put on and the collar tightens to prevent cold air from creeping in. On the sleeve, there is – again typical – the upper arm pocket. Spacious, with a pull tab for easier access. The slot for a pen must not be missing either. Velcro is provided underneath for any patches.

So far, many things were relatively the same, but there is no more Cordura on the forearm. It is now covered with the same outer fabric as the rest of the shirt, which is one of the biggest differences compared to the predecessor. Additionally, the new outer fabric is lighter, softer, quieter, and more stretchable, making it easier to put on and take off the AcE Winter Combat Shirt Gen. 2.

Also, the wrist warmers are now missing at the sleeve cuff. The proven Schoeller Dynamic fabric is used here. The old wrist warmers were not always popular and were often cut off by many, so this is a welcome change.

If it gets too hot, the warmth can be regulated with a large zipper under the armpits.

This has been renewed and exchanged for the two-way YKK VISLON zipper. The teeth are larger, making the zipper smoother and easier to operate. Attention: If the shirt is chosen too small, it may cut into the armpits, causing pressure points from the zipper. In such cases, choose a size larger.

A mesh insert prevents the opening from becoming too large and potentially tearing the zipper apart. Inside, you can already see the windproof, water-repellent PU membrane on the left side, and the fleece on the right.

Here is a detailed view. To the right of the thick zipper, there is the regular sewn-in one, as seen in the side pockets.

The side pockets also offer a way for better ventilation, thanks to the internal mesh fabric, and are designed like a kangaroo pocket for easy access.

Speaking of body climate, the UF PRO Air/Pac System is also back on board with pads on the shoulders and back. This also helps distribute heavy loads on the body, such as plate carriers or backpacks.

Time to take a look at the inside. When the shirt is turned inside out, you can see the stitched pads and the COCONA 37.5 fleece in the torso and shoulder area in brown.

The sleeves are divided, and the black area is COCNA Merino wool. Since the arms are more exposed than the body, the sleeves are also lined with 80g G-Loft for extra insulation.

Here's the label with the exact data, as well as washing instructions.

What should not be missing? A hanger loop.

Finally, a comparison photo with the old shirt. Gen. 2 on the left - Gen. 1 on the right. The outer fabric is new, sleeves are new, and the stretch fabric on the sides has also been revised. The color is now more stone gray-olive, the old one appears more brownish in comparison.

CONCLUSION: It remains our favorite shirt for the cold season. The new features are successful and offer added value for those who use it. Snow falls easily from the shirt, it withstands light rain as well. During intense activities, it provides an optimal climate under the plate carrier and is even more comfortable to wear than a jacket underneath. The outer skin is more durable than one might think, making it truly a combat shirt.

You can get the AcE Gen. 2 Winter Combat Shirt HERE directly from UF PRO for 280 euros in the common colors. The special feature of Multicam is that it uses a different fabric (even quieter, more abrasion-resistant), making it more expensive and available for 330 euros.

UF PRO on the web