Helikon-Tex Classic Army Fleece Jacket

The Classic Army Fleece Jacket is a mid-weight fleece designed for those who treat clothing as a layering system. Weighing 730 g and cut generously enough to accommodate a chest circumference of up to 138 cm in size XXXL, it sits between a base layer and an outer shell, or works as a standalone piece in mild conditions.

The shoulders and elbows are reinforced — a practical choice that extends the garment's life where abrasion and pressure concentrate during rucksack carry, ballistic load-bearing or fieldwork. The high collar protects the neck and nape without needing a separate neck gaiter, while the full-length front zip — fitted with a wind flap — blocks the gusts that a bare zip cannot. Velcro-adjustable cuffs and an elasticated hem with a quick-lock allow the jacket to be sealed close to the body or opened quickly when the temperature rises.

The pocket layout is built around operational use: the bicep pocket is reachable with the arm at rest and a pack on the back; the Napoleon chest pocket includes a cable port for headset or radio wiring, keeping connections tidy without having to open the jacket; the two lower zip side pockets keep their contents secure during dynamic movement. The trade-off to bear in mind is this: fleece breathes well and dries faster than conventional synthetic insulation, but it does not block wind — without an outer shell, its insulating effect drops noticeably in a breeze. Used as part of the layering system it is designed for, that limitation disappears.

Key points

• Reinforced shoulders and elbows resist wear at contact points with harnesses, rucksacks and abrasive surfaces.
• Wind flap over the front zip improves heat retention compared to an exposed zip.
• Napoleon pocket with integrated cable port keeps radio wiring tidy without opening the jacket.
• Velcro cuffs and elasticated hem with quick-lock adapt the fit to the body and to underlying layers.
• Mid-weight fleece: breathes and dries quickly, well suited as a mid-layer in a modular system.
• Available in sizes XS to XXXL with measurements stated in centimetres for accurate sizing.

In the box

• Helikon-Tex Classic Army Fleece Jacket