Helikon-Tex APCU Level V Version II Jacket and Trousers

Soft shell garments are becoming increasingly popular as they offer extremely lightweight protection along with high levels of water/wind-resistance and breathability, and the APCU Level V Version II jacket from Helikon conforms very well to these requirements.

The face fabric of the garment is a 98% nylon/2% spandex mix and feels surprisingly solid given its light weight. The cut is reasonably generous as it is designed as a predominantly ‘shell’ or outer layer to be worn over other insulating garments. There is no lining and the seams are not tape sealed, so I would never describe it as waterproof, although the water repellency applied to the outer face fabric worked well as new and has given consistently good performance to date.

The jacket is well-constructed, and although the seams are not flat locked, they are very low-profile. The main closure zip is a good quality YKK. In terms of features the jacket has a hood which rolls away into the collar, venting pit zips, two large venting pockets on the torso, and a small pocket on the upper arm of both sleeves.

Wrist closures a simple, low volume fabric/Velcro affair. There are drawstrings for the hood (including volume adjustment) and the hem. Velcro is used to good effect throughout, with space for your favourite unit patches and name tapes.

In Your Strides

To work alongside the jacket, Helikon-Tex also provide a matching trouser. Their Soft Shell Trousers (Version II) are based on the Soft Shell APCU (Advance Protective Combat Uniform) Level V. They are designed to be worn in combination with various base layer garments when additional warmth and water-resistance is required. The trousers are durable, yet lightweight and comfortable, and made from a 98% nylon/2% spandex breathable fabric. This stretch nylon soft shell fabric is water-repellent thanks to a Du Pont protector, breathable and also windproof.

In terms of features the trousers have two front pockets, two cargo pockets with Velcro and button flaps and drawstring, elastic waist with provision for suspenders, side zippers at the hips, calf-high side-zippers with elastic cuffs, and polyester reinforcements on the bottom of calf to avoid abrasion damage. They are lightweight and easy to store, and designed to provide perfect protection against wind and water, whatever the weather.

You can check out the full range and download catalogues by visiting www.helikon-tex.com. All Helikon- Tex products are available in the UK from www.military1st.com.