REVIEW: Helikon-Tex Level7 jacket

Winter is here! Some places with storms and rain, others with snow. But cold everywhere. To stay warm, it is recommended to wear a warm jacket. One option would be the Helikon Level7, and we have tested it for you. (Click on images to enlarge)

The L7 looks unspectacular from the outside, with two Velcro patches on the upper arms, two chest pockets, and a high collar. The outer shell is made of Ripstop Nylon. However, the jacket's real value lies in its insulation, which is made of Climashield^® Apex™ material with 100g/m². This insulation material keeps body heat in and allows sweat to escape. However, it is not ideal for vigorous activities, as this jacket is designed more for static operations. The fit of the jacket is intended to be worn as an overlayer, so it is slightly roomier but not bulky.

The spacious chest pockets are lined with fleece and feature a D-ring and compartments. The cuffs can be closed with Velcro straps, and the hem can be tightened with an elastic drawstring to prevent heat from escaping.

The collar houses a lined hood under a two-way zipper. The hood is also filled with Climashield^® Apex™ but with a density of 67g/m² to avoid bulkiness. The design allows the hood to be worn over a helmet. It can be cinched with a drawstring hidden inside the chest pockets.

The inside of the collar is also padded with soft fleece. On the inside, there are large mesh pockets on either side of the zipper for warming and drying damp items or general storage. There is also a hidden zipper pocket on the left chest inside.

The jacket also comes with a compression sack, allowing it to be compactly packed for transport. When compressed, the length is about 30 cm and the diameter is 16 cm.

CONCLUSION: Quality made in Poland. The Helikon Level 7 jacket offers a very good price-performance ratio. It may not be the warmest jacket we've ever tested, but it is up there. It should keep you comfortably warm up to -10° to even -15° C (we tested it at -10°C).

Available at Camostore for 149,00€ excluding shipping in Black, Coyote, and Alpha Green