By Dan Kidder
Managing Editor
As fall is now upon us, we are faced with cool mornings and warmer afternoons as the dog days move inexorably on toward winter. For those cooler mornings and evenings, 5.11 Tactical has an assortment of lightweight jackets that are perfect for whatever your activity.
Leading off the pack is the Chameleon Soft Shell Jacket. A great looking casual windbreaker, this two toned coat has all of the durable ruggedness you expect from 5.11 Tactical as well as a few surprises. Made for undercover law enforcement, the jacket features three removable pull out ID panels that can be embroidered with Police or whatever fits your particular lifestyle. I have had our company logo embroidered on one, my name on the other and Instructor on the back so I can pull the tabs down when teaching and stow them away for everyday wear.
The lightweight polyester bonded soft shell is soft to the touch, prevents snags, and repels water. The jacket features five outside zip pockets, including one on the sleeve, and 3 inside pockets for plenty of storage. The jacket is both wind and water resistant to keep you warm and dry in case of a sudden storm.
For prolonged exposure to the elements, the Tac Dry Rain Shell provides serious waterproofing. I wore this jacket in a torrential downpour and while my feet and legs were soaked, my upper body was dry as a bone after several hours in the deluge. This jacket has a great snuggable and removable hood, features the hidden ID tabs, and has four outside pockets and 3 interior pockets.
What really rocks about this jacket is its Quixip Sidearm Access. Pull a string on the side and the jacket whips open to your armpit to allow easy access to a concealed firearm on either side. Velcro tabs at the neck and wrist seal you inside the fully seam sealed cocoon for a warm and dry experience.
Finally, 5.11 Tactical features the Covert Fleece Jacket. This wind resistant fleece has two external zippered handwarmer pockets and two hidden document pockets that are compatible with 5.11’s Back Up Belt Stem for stowing a firearm, cell phone, or other accessories. The soft fleece keeps you warm on chilly days and is completely compatible as a liner for the 3-in-1 Parka. Elastic cuffs and a high collar keep out the chill and provide superior comfort in all kinds of weather.
Whether in the cool of the morning and evening or in the heat of the day, 5.11 Tactical has a jacket that will fit your lifestyle, keep you warm, and make you look cool. Show me another company who can do all of that.
