Helikon Clothing

To my mind, the remit of our manufacturer features and articles has always been about finding kit that’s on a budget, but that is going to be 100% fit for purpose and give a good, long ‘service life’. Helikon-Tex are one of those manufacturers that are constantly pushing the boundaries of garment and gear manufacture forward and 2017 saw some serious updates to the new lines that were introduced this time last year; these new designs feature new fabrics and technologies, and there is quite literally something for everyone!

They cooperate with the best specialists, not only in their native Poland, but beyond the borders as well. They use the comments and exchange experiences with Khyber Interactive Associates and its lead instructor Dr Wes Doss. Training Squad is one of the most experienced firearms instruction companies, offering firearms and combat shooting training for the Polish and international markets; Helikon-Tex have been able to harness the considerable experience of their instructors, to assist in co-designing the new products in the Range Series and this has led to some particularly exciting developments!

Going soft!

New for this year in their ‘Urban Line’ is the URBAN HYBRID SOFTSHELL; by combining three first-rate materials they have created a lightweight, expandable and breathable urban jacket. The Urban Hybrid Softshell protects from wind, while the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating repels rainwater. Four pockets allow equal distribution of every-day carry essentials, while small size allows it to be carried folded in a backpack, while not in use, so it’s not just smart but massively versatile. The GREYMAN TACTICAL JEANS AND PANTS are tactical with capital ‘T’, yet discreet. They’re cut straight and simple. A crotch gusset gives ease of movement, and the waistband is elasticated and Velcro-fastened to allow precise adjustment. Belt loops will take even a 50mm wide belt, and there are nine pockets; two main classical cut, two inset, adding a flair of designer flavour, four back, and all are spacious, while simple and functional. The Tactical Jeans were a stand out product for me when I saw them at IWA earlier this year, and I shall definitely get me a pair of these!

Run like the wind

The WINDRUNNER JACKET is an ideal ‘EDC’ item in a bag, satchel or backpack because of its minimum weight and size when folded. Ultralight, tight-woven Nylon fabric protects from wind, and if the DWR coating is regularly maintained, also from light rain. The Windrunner would also be an ideal garment for jogging or more athletic pursuits, as mesh ventilation slats in the armpits allow air circulation. On cooler days, worn over a fleece, this jacket keeps body warmth from escaping and protects against windchill. There’s a large channel pocket, which will accommodate a cap, gloves or a buff. Two small flat pockets inside the large pocket help to organise small items like a smartphone or wallet, and again versatility is the key word here. The HYBRID OUTBACK PANTS are advanced outdoor pants, equally suitable for long mountain treks and wild camping trips, and they certainly wouldn’t look amiss at the range. The pants are comfortable and durable, and they can be partly waterproofed with wax. There are two classic front pockets with edges reinforced for knife/light clips, two velcroclosed front thigh pockets and two zippered cargo pockets. The knee reinforcement areas have inner pockets for Helikon-Tex’s Neoprene Low Profile Protective Pads, which would facilitate camp chores, where you are kneeling for prolonged periods of time.

Blizzard warning

The new BLIZZARD PANTS are advanced, universal foul weather apparel, especially suitable for mountain hiking or wet and windy days on the range. Two types of soft shell fabrics (2-way and 4-way stretch) have been combined to provide durability and ease of movement, while retaining breathability. The pants have capacious cargo pockets, additional ventilation channels, pant leg reinforcements and boot-lace hooks. The softshell BLIZZARD JACKET is a fitting complement to the Blizzard Series pants. As a lightweight outer garment, it is perfect for most weather conditions. This is a universal jacket with a slightly ‘tactical’ feel. The outer shell fabric is rugged and DWR coated; the fabric is also stretchy, which provides enhanced comfort. An elongated cut combined with adjustable hood, bottom and sleeve cuff s allows you to fit the jacket so that it’s ‘just right’ for you and gives great protection from the elements. The hood is stowed in the collar, and six pockets carry all your essentials with ease.

The DEFENDER Mk2 short sleeve and DEFENDER Mk2 long sleeve shirts are an update on the existing and well respected DEFENDER model, whilst the ALPHA HOODIE is all new; this is a product designed to warm the body quickly. It can be used as a standalone garment or warming layer. Shoulder and elbow reinforcements prevent the fleece elements from wearing thin, and there are two smaller pockets on the upper arms and two full-sized pockets on lower front; the chest pocket has a wiring eyelet.

Conclusion

This is a very, very focused set of additions to the already extensive range of top-quality products offered by Helikon-Tex and is really impressive. They’ve looked at the gaps in their range and cleverly come up with top quality, highperformance designs to fill these, and I am extremely interested to see where Helikon-Tex go in 2018!

All the new designs are available online to look at in the new Helikon-Tex catalogue so for more information on the individual pieces please do visit https:// issuu.com/helikon-tex/docs/helikontex_ 2017_master_catalog. If any of the gear featured in the article is of interest, then simply head to www.military1st.co.uk who will be stocking up on the new lines just as fast as the products are released!