Helikon-Tex Patriot Heavy Fleece Jacket

Being on Facebook has introduced me to a lot of new gear companies, a lot of which are overseas. Such as Poland, Australia, Italy, etc. Being spoiled with tons of tactical gear / clothing companies in the states you tend to forget that there are many more in the world as well.

I don't know much about Helikon-Tex other than what is mentioned on their site. Seems that they started as a military surplus shop and later branched into uniforms. Since I wasn't familiar with their gear I decided to give it a try.

The Patriot is a heavy fleece jacket that resembles most of the tactical jackets on the market right now. Most of which inspired by outdoor jackets and the ever popular PCU system. This is by far the thickest and warmest fleece jacket I have tried, which already sets is apart from what's out there.

Notable features:
-Fixed adjustable hood
-Dual chest pockets
-Dual arm pockets w/ velcro
-Forearm pocket
-Adjustable cuffs
-Heavy warm fleece
-Rear glove pockets
-Available in tan, OD, foliage, and black

Helikon-Tex's catalog and Facebook:
http://helikon-tex.com/tymczasowa/Helikon-Tex_2012_catalogue.pdf
https://www.facebook.com/HelikonTex

Overhead shot of the Patriot


Closeup of the chest pockets


PVC logo patch located on the bottom of the jacket


All the zips have a Helikon-Tex logo tag



Chest pockets offer plenty of space although there are no additional compartments inside


There aren't many internal organizational compartments but there is a small cutout for headphones, which is nice. Located on the large chest right pocket


YKK zips are always a good sign


Arm pockets have velcro, naturally


Arm pockets have plenty of space but again no additional internal compartments


Forearm pocket



Wrist band is adjustable and made of rubber


Back of the forearms have an additional layer of protection


Pit has a single zip design



Bottom of the jacket has adjustments as well. Keep the jacket tight to retain heat


Back of the jacket has a pocket which can be used for gloves or any other similarly sized accessory



The hood unfortunately isn't stow-able and also not removable which isn't absolutely terrible


It does however have plenty of adjustment


Inside shot of the large tags




Although this fleece is nothing revolutionary in terms of design, I did take interest because it's significantly thicker than any other jacket I have. For whatever the situation may come up this jacket definitely has an ideal use, the cold. If you need a warmer jacket this is something you may want to look into.

Pros:
-Thick and very warm fleece
-Fit is true to size

Cons:
-Made in China
-No stow-able or removable hood