Helikon-Tex Classic Army Fleece Jacket

The Classic Army Fleece Jacket is a mid-weight insulating fleece designed for people who spend long hours outdoors in changing conditions: hunters waiting in a hide, shooters on the range during the shoulder seasons, operators who need a versatile thermal layer to wear under a shell or on its own. At 730 g, it sits in the light-but-substantial mid-layer segment, with a generous cut — size XL offers a 132 cm chest circumference — so it can be worn over a base layer without restricting movement.

The high collar with retention closes around the chin without chafing, while the full-length front zip includes a wind flap that blocks gusts coming through the teeth. The elasticated hem with quick-adjust cord locks lets you seal the jacket around the hips to retain heat when stationary, then loosen it in seconds when you start moving again — a detail that anyone who spends time waiting in a fixed position will appreciate. It should be noted that fleece, by its nature, is neither waterproof nor windproof: in rain or sustained wind it needs to be paired with an outer shell.

Shoulders and elbows are reinforced to resist abrasion from harnesses, plate carriers and rough surfaces. There are four pockets: two zippered lower side pockets, one bicep pocket and a Napoleon chest pocket with a cable port for earphones or PTT cables. The velcro cuffs adjust to wrist circumference and keep the sleeve in place whether you are pulling on or taking off a glove.

Key features

• High retention collar and wind flap on the front zip: effective protection even in moderate crosswinds.
• Reinforced shoulders and elbows: withstand prolonged contact with harnesses and abrasive surfaces without the fabric giving way.
• Elasticated hem with quick adjustment: seals in warmth when stationary, releases immediately on the move.
• Four pockets, including a Napoleon pocket with cable port: accessible organisation even when wearing a chest rig or pack.
• Adjustable velcro cuffs: the sleeve stays snug at the wrist regardless of glove thickness.
• Available from XS to XXXL with published sizing data: choose your size based on actual measurements, not just the label.