Platatac "Harry" 1.2 Soft Shell Jacket

There are many soft shell jackets in the market right now. Platatac has a few in their catalog and we'll be reviewing 2 models. First up is the Harry 1.2 which is their insulated parka and not a thinner shell. So keep that in mind as it'll keep you a bit warmer than a standard shell or outer layer. It's loaded with features that definitely separates it from other brands. Let's get to it.

Notable features:
-Flash Resistant
-Adjustable draw cord hem
-Wind and water resistant
-Main Zip is a two way YKK coil zipper
-Fully adjustable hood with four points of adjustment
-Removable hood
-Two hidden vertical chest pockets
-Reduced profile bicep pockets
-Color matched loop Velcro field on bicep for IFF and unit insignia
-Reinforced elbows with colour matched fabric
-Pit zips for venting
-Gusseted underarms for unrestricted mobility
-All zippers are YKK

Product link:
http://www.platatac.com/harry-1-2-jacket/w1/i1447798/

Overhead shot of the Harry 1.2


Closeup of the left chest, complete with Platatac embroidery


Dual chest pockets. I personally like separate chest and hand warmer pockets, this jacket has both. Both chest pockets offer plenty of space


Main jacket zips utilize YKK hardware and are dual-zips. Which means you can zip up and down


Like I mentioned above, I prefer having both chest and hand warmer pockets vs just large chest pockets as seen in most shells


Notice how the flap keeps the zippers protected


A feature that I think all jackets should have are pit zips. Can help you cool off and give you access to under layers. Dual zips here as well


The bicep pockets complete with Velcro. I did notice they were a bit stingy with the Velcro on this jacket, GWA patch is not large by any means and overlapped a bit



Bicep pocket offers plenty of space, notepad, phone, iPod, etc. No cable port though, so if you're using headphones, you're out of luck


On the backside of the forearm area the jacket is reinforced with a much rougher material. This is nice if you're in the prone position


Cuffs are adjustable and you can make it quite tight. Since the jacket is insulated and a bit thicker I noticed that the cuffs can get quite bulky. I will also add that the sleeves were just a tad short for my arm lengths and I normally wear a M/R


Bottom of the jacket has bungee pulls, great feature if you do a lot of expeditions and need to keep warm and dry


The hood on this jacket is one of the most complex pieces on the jacket, which is not a bad thing. The main zip is protected and covered from irritating your face. Also notice how the hood is independent than the collar, a separate piece



Bungee pulls give you adjustment on both the front and back of the hood. A big floppy hood can always get quite annoying


Unfortunately the hood is not stow able but it is removable via zip. Removing the hood gives the jacket a more "on-duty" look


Shown here with the hood removed, nice clean collar look


Shot of the inside tag, doesn't mention where it's made but was confirmed made in Asia


Like all my other soft shell jacket reviews, we end with a water pour test. This jacket performed well, see for yourself






With so many features present you know Platatac designed this from the ground up instead of copying other designs. Although the non-existent cable ports for headphones or headset is a bit of a downer. The jacket is made and utilizes YKK hardware. The DWR water treatment more than passed my expectations and with no doubt will keep the user dry. Combined with the insulation it will definitely keep you warm as well.

Overall a fantastic jacket from a company that deserves a bit more attention.

Pros:
-Price, at $195 it's definitely comparable to other brands
-Removable hood which is also independent from the collar
-Plenty of adjustments, on hood and jacket
-Both chest and hand warmer pockets
-Water resistant

Cons:
-Small velcro portions
-Slightly short sleeves, if you have longer arms I would recommend sizing up
-No ports for headphones or headsets
-Made in Asia