What makes a tactical winter jacket different from any winter jacket, really? Well, with a tactical jacket, the emphasis is on supporting operations, whether they be in the line of official duty, or just keeping you warm and dry in the field when you’re hunting or playing airsoft.
Nonetheless, you should lend attention to some of the following considerations before you put good money into a tactical jacket. From a high level they will help ensure you are pleased with the purchase.
Insulation
First and foremost, no tactical winter jacket will be of much use if it doesn’t keep you warm. High-quality tactical jackets are insulated with synthetic materials like polyamide, or natural materials like wool felt or serge.
Look for high-quality synthetic insulation such as G-LOFT insulation in the torso and sleeves, as well as synthetic fleece lining in key areas such as around the neck.
In addition to insulation, you should keep in mind that you might want to go up a size or a half a size, that way you can layer underneath the jacket as needed.
Waterproof Rating
You can’t stay warm if you can’t stay dry, and high-quality tactical winter jackets will invariably sport a waterproof shell or at least a shell with a DWR, or durable water-repellent finish.
Even those that don’t should be made with a breathable PU liner that helps keep you dry while releasing moisture so you don’t feel like you’re covered in plastic wrap.
Windproofing
The same jackets that keep you warm and dry should offer robust protection against the wind. Quality tactical jackets do; if yours doesn’t, you should consider getting another layer to wear under it to help shield you against the wind.
Range of Motion Supported
A good tactical winter jacket will not restrict your range of motion, and many are made with generous gussets under the arms, allowing you a freer range of motion.
Fabric Type and General Durability
Most modern tactical winter jackets are made with high-end performance synthetic materials such as nylon, CORDURA, polyamide, and polyester, among others.
The best ones will also be specifically reinforced in areas that experience higher rates of wear, such as the lower back, the shoulders, and the elbows.
Noise
You read that right, it says noise. There are some situations in which the noisy fabric of a tactical winter jacket will not serve you well. Hunting comes to mind, and some winter jackets are a lot noisier than others.
There are some, however, like UF Pro’s Delta OL 4.0 Tactical Winter Jacket that are made with quieter materials, which can help you stay concealed and undetected in the woods.
Space Considerations
High-quality tactical jackets have plenty of pockets, both internal and external pockets, in conventional and unconventional areas, such as on the sleeves or upper arms. These are ideal for carrying tools like knives and lights, spare mags, and much more.
Shop Tactical Winter Jackets (and Other Gear) from the Top Brands in the Industry
Whether you need a new hunting jacket for late-season still hunting or you’re looking for something to support you in your line of work in the field, visit Anarchy Outdoors.
They carry a wide range of tactical clothing and gear, including winter jackets from the best brands, such as UF Pro. They also carry tactical clothing and gear from Lindnerhof, American Operator, Born Primitive, and more.
Visit their website to get some inspiration and upgrade your current setup today.
